Name: Pumpkin Spice Beef Chili Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin purée; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained & rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained & rinsed; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp cinnamon; ½ tsp nutmeg; ½ tsp allspice; ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat); Salt & black pepper to taste

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If you ever wished fall flavors could blend perfectly with bold, hearty comfort food, this Pumpkin Spice Beef Chili is about to become your new go-to recipe. Imagine a steaming bowl packed with savory ground beef, creamy pumpkin purée, vibrant peppers, and an irresistibly unique twist with pumpkin spice in every spoonful! It’s warmly spiced, full of depth, and the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re hosting a tailgate, gathering around with family, or just cozying up on a cool evening, Pumpkin Spice Beef Chili somehow always feels like the most festive, satisfying answer.

Pumpkin Spice Beef Chili Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredient list for Pumpkin Spice Beef Chili is straightforward, but each item plays a significant role in building both the heartiness and those rich, autumnal layers of flavor. You’ll love how every spice and veggie comes together for a cozy, colorful, and absolutely irresistible chili.

Ground beef (1 lb): Go for an 80/20 blend for just the right juiciness and robust chili flavor.
Olive oil (1 tbsp): Essential for sautéing the veggies and kickstarting the depth of the base.
Onion, diced (1 medium): Adds sweetness and melds beautifully with the warm fall spices.
Garlic, minced (3 cloves): For those punchy, aromatic notes a chili can’t live without!
Red bell pepper, diced (1): Brings a pop of color and a subtle sweetness to balance the heat.
Pumpkin purée (1 can, 15 oz): The secret ingredient for a creamy, silky texture and unmistakable pumpkin essence.
Black beans, drained & rinsed (1 can, 15 oz): Offer a hearty bite and a lovely contrast of color.
Kidney beans, drained & rinsed (1 can, 15 oz): Give extra body and that classic chili texture.
Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 28 oz): Forms the saucy backbone of this chili while adding a fresh tang.
Beef broth (2 cups): Enhances richness without overwhelming the spices.
Chili powder (2 tbsp): For bold, classic chili flavor that plays so well with pumpkin spice!
Ground cumin (1 tsp): Lends earthiness that anchors the sweeter spices.
Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Gives a subtle smokiness that amps up the chili’s comfort factor.
Cinnamon (1 tsp): The not-so-secret star for that unmistakable pumpkin spice profile.
Nutmeg (½ tsp): Just a pinch deepens those autumn vibes.
Allspice (½ tsp): Brings the final layer to the pumpkin spice warmth.
Cayenne pepper (½ tsp, optional): For a bit of heat if you’re craving some extra kick!
Salt & black pepper (to taste): Balances and highlights all the other flavors.

How to Make

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies

Begin your Pumpkin Spice Beef Chili by heating olive oil in a large, sturdy pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper—these basics form the aromatic, flavorful canvas for your chili. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, until the veggies are soft and fragrant. You’ll already be able to smell those cozy, delicious chili vibes!

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to your veggie mixture, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown thoroughly—this adds tons of savory depth to the Pumpkin Spice Beef Chili. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it for a lighter dish, but leave just enough for richness.

Step 3: Toast Your Spices

Now for the transformative part: sprinkle in your chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and a touch of cayenne if you like it hot. Don’t forget salt and pepper! Stir these spices through the meat and veggies for 1–2 minutes—this blooming step draws out extra flavor, making the pumpkin spice notes truly shine.

Step 4: Add Pumpkin, Beans, Tomatoes, and Broth

Stir in the pumpkin purée, black beans, kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. This gorgeous mix immediately turns your pot into a rich, hearty chili that smells as amazing as it looks. Everything comes together quickly at this stage, so give it a good stir to combine.

Step 5: Simmer and Finish

Bring your Pumpkin Spice Beef Chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30–40 minutes. Stir now and then, letting the chili thicken and those magical fall flavors blend. Finish by tasting and adjusting the seasoning—maybe another pinch of salt or a dash more spice if you’re feeling bold!

How to Serve

Garnishes

A bowl of Pumpkin Spice Beef Chili gets even better with the right garnishes. I love a dollop of sour cream for creaminess, a sprinkle of sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack, a shower of fresh cilantro, and maybe crunchy roasted pumpkin seeds for a little autumn flair. Pile on your favorites and watch every bite disappear!

Side Dishes

Serve this chili with warm, crusty bread or classic cornbread for dipping, or with a simple green salad to keep things fresh. If you’re feeling extra festive, try roasted sweet potatoes or tortilla chips alongside to scoop up those thick, savory bites. The subtle pumpkin spice in the chili plays beautifully with all sorts of sides.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not serve your Pumpkin Spice Beef Chili in roasted pumpkin bowls for a memorable fall dinner? Alternatively, set up a chili toppings bar for guests to build their perfect bowl or ladle the chili over baked potatoes for a comforting, satisfying twist. Presentation can be just as fun and festive as the flavor!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pumpkin Spice Beef Chili stores like a dream—just let it cool to room temperature, then transfer to airtight containers. Tuck it in the fridge, and you’ll have delicious leftovers waiting for lunch or a fuss-free dinner for up to 4 days. The flavors even develop more complexity as they mingle overnight.

Freezing

For longer storage, portion cooled chili into freezer-friendly containers or zip-top bags and freeze flat (this saves space). Your Pumpkin Spice Beef Chili will keep beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the microwave’s defrost setting for a quick option.

Reheating

Reheat chili gently in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout. If it’s thickened in the fridge, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it. Single servings heat up quickly in the microwave—just cover and stir every minute until piping hot.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Pumpkin Spice Beef Chili is super versatile—swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, leaner version. Just be sure to add a splash of olive oil while browning, since these meats are less fatty than beef.

Is this chili very spicy?

You control the spice! The base recipe isn’t overly hot, but if you’re spice-averse, simply skip the cayenne pepper. Want extra heat? Add more chili powder or a pinch of red pepper flakes to turn it up.

Can I make Pumpkin Spice Beef Chili ahead of time?

Yes, and I actually recommend it! The flavors deepen the longer the chili sits, making it even more delicious the next day. It’s a fantastic make-ahead option for gatherings or meal prep.

What does the pumpkin purée add to the chili?

Pumpkin purée gives the chili a rich, creamy base without being sweet. It’s subtle but brings gorgeous color, velvety texture, and a hint of earthy flavor that melds perfectly with the warm spices.

Is Pumpkin Spice Beef Chili gluten-free or dairy-free?

Yes! The recipe is naturally gluten-free and will be dairy-free as long as you skip cheese or sour cream garnishes. It’s a crowd-pleasing choice for almost any dietary need.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a bowl of something truly special this fall, don’t wait to make Pumpkin Spice Beef Chili. With just the right balance of savory, hearty, and warmly spiced, it’s a dish that brings comfort and autumn joy in every spoonful. Gather your ingredients, invite someone you love, and let this chili become a new seasonal tradition!