Discover the comforting and vibrant flavors of this Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef Recipe, a hearty dish that perfectly balances savory spices, tender meat, and the subtle sweetness of butternut squash. This recipe is a celebration of cozy, wholesome eats that can brighten up any chilly day with its rich texture and colorful ingredients. Whether you choose turkey for a lean option or beef for a richer bite, this chili wonderfully combines nutrition and taste in a single pot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly. Each component plays an essential role, from the warm spices that build depth to the butternut squash that adds a creamy sweetness and vibrant color to your chili.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For perfectly browning the meat and sautéing the aromatics.
- 1 lb ground turkey or beef: Your choice of protein, providing a flavorful and hearty base.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and richness when cooked down.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the chili with aromatic warmth.
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed: The star ingredient, offering subtle sweetness and tender texture.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: Brings acidity and moisture to balance the dish.
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: Adds heartiness and a creamy bite.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed: Complements the kidney beans with texture and protein.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: Provides classic chili warmth with a gentle kick.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Infuses earthy undertones that deepen the chili’s flavor.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Offers a smoky complexity to the dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning essentials that enhance every ingredient.
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth: Creates the perfect cooking liquid to meld all flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional): Adds a pop of sweetness and crisp texture in the final minutes.
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional): Brings a fresh, herbal brightness at serving.
How to Make Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your chosen ground turkey or beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it browns evenly. This step locks in flavor and sets the savory foundation for your chili.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Once the meat is browned, toss in chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion softens and releases its fragrance, creating an irresistible aroma that signals deliciousness ahead.
Step 3: Combine the Veggies and Spices
Next, stir in the cubed butternut squash along with diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and black beans. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, as well as salt and pepper. These seasonings blend perfectly to build warm, layered flavors, while the vegetables bring color and hearty texture.
Step 4: Simmer and Cook the Chili
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bringing the entire mix to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer softens the butternut squash until tender and allows all the flavors to marry beautifully.
Step 5: Add Corn for Sweetness and Texture
For a delightful twist of texture and sweetness, add corn kernels during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This optional step brightens the dish and adds an extra layer of fun in every spoonful.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, ladle your warm Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef Recipe into bowls. If you like, garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and herbaceous freshness before digging in.
How to Serve Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is a classic choice to crown your chili, lending a lively herbal note that contrasts the smoky spices. You might also try a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese to add creamy richness that cools the palate.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs beautifully with simple sides like warm cornbread, crusty bread, or even tortilla chips for scooping. A crisp green salad can provide a refreshing counterbalance to the chili’s warming spices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the chili in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or bread bowls. You can also top it with crunchy roasted pepitas or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra zing. The possibilities to elevate this dish for guests or family meals are truly endless.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover chili to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making your next serving even more delicious.
Freezing
This Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat your chili gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen it up. Microwaving works well too, just stir halfway through to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of beans?
Absolutely! Pinto beans or navy beans make great substitutes if you want to mix things up or use what you have on hand.
Is ground turkey healthier than ground beef for this chili?
Ground turkey generally contains less fat and fewer calories, which can make this chili lighter. However, beef offers a richer taste that many chili lovers prefer. Both work wonderfully.
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Of course! Simply omit the meat and add extra beans or vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for texture and heartiness.
How spicy is this chili?
This recipe offers warm, mild heat thanks to chili powder and smoked paprika. If you prefer it hotter, add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to taste.
What’s the best way to peel and cube butternut squash?
Use a sturdy vegetable peeler to remove the skin, then cut off the ends before slicing it in half to scoop out the seeds. Finally, cube it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful recipe to warm you from the inside out, this Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef Recipe is a must-try. It’s simple to prepare, satisfying to eat, and versatile enough to make your own. Trust me, once you make it, it will become one of your cherished weeknight staples.
