If there’s ever a cozy, color-packed dinner that wins every time it hits the table, it’s this Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef. This chili is hearty and nourishing, filled with tender cubes of butternut squash and your choice of protein, all simmered in a tomato-rich, subtly spiced broth. Whether you’re gathering with friends on a chilly night or meal-prepping your lunches for the week, you’ll fall for the vibrant flavors and inviting aroma that fill your kitchen as it cooks. It’s just as fantastic eaten right away as it is a day later, and so simple you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s take a tour through our handful of essential ingredients. Each one is thoughtfully chosen for the role it plays—from bright color and sweetness to savory depth, these are the building blocks for your Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef.
- Olive oil: The base for sautéing, bringing out rich flavors as you cook the meat and onion.
- Ground turkey or ground beef: Adds satisfying protein and heartiness; use whichever you prefer for your own personal twist!
- Onion: Brings subtle sweetness and aromatic complexity that sets the tone for every bite.
- Garlic: Supplies a fragrant punch; mince it fresh for big flavor payoff.
- Chili powder: Lends spicy warmth and a classic chili backbone.
- Ground cumin: Earthy and smoky, cumin works quietly to round out the chili’s savory notes.
- Smoked paprika: Gives a gentle smokiness that enhances the roasted butternut squash.
- Cinnamon: Just a touch turns up the coziness and pairs beautifully with squash.
- Salt: Boosts every flavor in the pot—don’t skip it!
- Black pepper: For a subtle, sharp heat that balances everything out.
- Butternut squash: The star ingredient, adding natural sweetness and creamy texture when cooked.
- Black beans: For creaminess, extra protein, and fiber—be sure to drain and rinse.
- Fire-roasted diced tomatoes: Pack a zesty, slightly smoky flavor that lifts the chili’s base.
- Tomato sauce: Helps create a thick, luscious sauce that holds everything together.
- Chicken or beef broth: Infuses the chili with savory depth; use your favorite variety.
- Optional toppings: Avocado, cilantro, shredded cheese, sour cream—dress up your bowl just how you like it!
How to Make Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Heat your olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add your ground turkey or beef. Use a wooden spoon to break up any clumps, letting it brown and develop a deep, savory flavor that will anchor your chili. This step makes sure your meat is juicy, flavorful, and the perfect base for all the vegetables and spices to come.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion
Once your meat is no longer pink, toss in the diced onion. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and begins to turn translucent. The onion melds with the browned meat, soaking up all those rich, meaty flavors. This also sets the stage for the garlic to bloom without burning.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices
With the onions softened, in go the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously for about a minute as the spices toast and become fragrant. This is where your kitchen fills with that irresistible chili aroma, and each spice releases its best essence into the mix.
Step 4: Add Squash, Beans, and Tomatoes
Pour in the diced butternut squash, drained black beans, fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Give the pot a thorough stir so all the ingredients get to know one another. At this point, you’ll be able to see the chili starting to take shape—the cubes of squash provide beautiful color, and the sauce is already looking hearty.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Bring your Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered. After about 25 to 30 minutes, the squash becomes meltingly tender and the chili achieves that rich, thick consistency. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed once it’s finished simmering.
Step 6: Serve Hot with Toppings
Ladle your steaming chili into bowls and treat yourself to your favorite toppings. From creamy avocado slices to a dollop of sour cream, each garnish takes this bowl from simple to truly sensational.
How to Serve Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef
Garnishes
A great chili isn’t complete without a sprinkle of tasty toppings. For the Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef, I love serving it with diced avocado for creaminess, fresh cilantro for brightness, a generous handful of shredded cheese for gooeyness, and a swirl of sour cream to make every spoonful silky smooth. Each person can personalize their bowl to match their cravings.
Side Dishes
If you’re dreaming of a full meal, pair this chili with fluffy cornbread, crunchy tortilla chips, or a crisp green salad. The chili’s bold flavors and tender squash go perfectly with the buttery crumb of warm bread, or for a gluten-free option, serve alongside roasted sweet potatoes or rice.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef in small bread bowls for a fun, interactive dinner (plus no dishes to do after!). Ladle it over baked potatoes for a hearty twist, or scoop it into jars for an easy grab-and-go lunch. For parties, lay out a toppings bar so everyone can build their own ultimate chili bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This chili really shines as a make-ahead meal. Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making the second-day experience even more delicious. You can enjoy leftovers for up to four days without losing any of that signature comfort.
Freezing
Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef is a freezer superstar. Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or bags for an instant dinner anytime. It keeps well for up to three months, perfect for busy weeks or lazy Sunday suppers. Just remember to label your containers with the date!
Reheating
To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Warm it up in a pot on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If needed, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Alternatively, you can use the microwave for individual servings, stirring every minute for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or a vegetarian substitute instead of turkey or beef?
Absolutely! Ground chicken works beautifully if you want a leaner protein, and for a vegetarian version, try crumbled tofu, tempeh, or an extra can of beans. The seasonings and vegetables are robust enough to stand up to these swaps without sacrificing flavor.
Does the butternut squash need to be pre-cooked?
No need to pre-cook the squash! Just peel, seed, and dice it before adding to the chili. The simmering time allows the squash to become perfectly tender while soaking up all the tasty spices and tomato goodness.
How spicy is this chili?
The Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef is mildly spiced and family-friendly, thanks to the chili powder and smoked paprika. If you prefer extra heat, toss in chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes. You have total control over the spice level.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely! This recipe doubles (or even triples) easily. Just use a large enough pot and adjust simmering time as needed to allow the flavors to meld. It’s a fantastic choice for potlucks, game days, or meal prepping for a big group.
What’s the best way to peel and dice butternut squash safely?
Use a sharp vegetable peeler to remove the skin, then cut off both ends. Slice the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out the seeds, and dice into evenly-sized cubes. If you’re short on time, most grocery stores sell fresh, pre-cut butternut squash in the produce section.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited to try this Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef as I am to share it! It’s one of those recipes that just feels like a hug in a bowl—wholesome, adaptable, and full of comforting, vibrant flavor. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight dinner or prepping a big batch for leftovers, this chili is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Dig in and enjoy every cozy spoonful!
Print
Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Warm up with a bowl of hearty and flavorful Butternut Squash Chili, made with your choice of ground turkey or beef. This easy recipe is perfect for chilly nights and is packed with protein and veggies.
Ingredients
For the chili:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey or ground beef
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups butternut squash (peeled and diced)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 can (15 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup chicken or beef broth
Optional toppings:
- avocado
- cilantro
- shredded cheese
- sour cream
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Cook meat: Add ground turkey or beef, cook until browned.
- Add onion and spices: Add onion, cook until softened. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
- Add remaining ingredients: Include butternut squash, black beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 25–30 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and adjust, then serve hot with toppings.
Notes
- You can swap sweet potato for butternut squash.
- For more heat, add jalapeño or red pepper flakes.
- This chili freezes well and tastes even better the next day.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *