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Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 20 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Entree
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

This Easy Butternut Squash Chili with Turkey or Beef is a hearty and nutritious one-pot meal that combines tender butternut squash, savory ground turkey or beef, beans, and warming spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this chili is packed with fiber, protein, and vibrant flavors, making it a delicious way to enjoy a healthy twist on classic chili.

Ingredients

Protein and Vegetables

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lb ground turkey or beef
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)

Canned Goods and Broth

  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish

  • Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Brown the Meat: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground turkey or beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant.
  3. Add Main Ingredients and Spices: Stir in cubed butternut squash, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Simmer the Chili: Pour in chicken or vegetable broth, bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot. Let it cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the butternut squash is tender.
  5. Add Corn (Optional): For extra texture and sweetness, add corn kernels during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  6. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey with ground beef based on your preference.
  • Use vegetable broth to make this recipe vegetarian if using plant-based ground meat.
  • Corn kernels are optional but add a nice sweetness and texture contrast.
  • Adjust the chili powder and spices to suit your preferred level of heat.
  • This chili freezes well for up to 3 months—cool completely before storing.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/easy-butternut-squash-chili-with-turkey-or-beef-recipe-2/