Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili

Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili is a cozy fall dish that combines pumpkin with a creamy white base, perfect for gatherings or a comforting weeknight meal. This unique chili boasts layers of flavor from ingredients like chicken sausage, green chilies, and white beans. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that not only warms you up but also impresses your guests with its deliciously rich flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and cream cheese creates a rich, velvety texture that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
• Effortless Cooking: Simply toss all ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work for you—perfect for busy days!
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with cornbread for a complete meal.
• Seasonal Delight: This chili celebrates the tastes of fall, making it ideal for autumn gatherings or Halloween parties.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with beans and pumpkin, this dish is full of nutrients while still being hearty.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili is simple with the right tools. Below are the essentials you’ll need to make this delightful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for cooking the chili low and slow, allowing all flavors to meld beautifully without constant supervision.
• Skillet: Used to brown the sausage before adding it to the crockpot, enhancing its flavor through caramelization.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Chili Base

• 1 12 ounce package maple breakfast links
• 2 15oz cans great northern beans, drained
• 1 15oz can whole corn kernels, drained
• 1 4oz can diced green chilies
• 1 10oz can diced tomatoes with green chilies (ro-tel)
• 1 15oz can pure pumpkin puree
• 4 cups (32 ounces) chicken stock

For Seasoning

• 1 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

For Creaminess

• 8 ounces plain cream cheese

For Serving

• green onion
• cheddar cheese
• sour cream

How to Make Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage

Using a knife, carefully remove the casings from all of the maple breakfast links. Heat and crumble the maple breakfast links in a skillet over medium heat until brown and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

Add cooked maple breakfast sausage, great northern beans, corn kernels, diced green chilies, diced tomatoes with chilies, pumpkin puree, chicken stock, ground cumin, chili powder, ground nutmeg, and black pepper to the crockpot. Stir well to mix everything together.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours. This slow cooking process allows all flavors to develop fully.

Step 4: Add Cream Cheese

Twenty to thirty minutes before serving, it’s time to add the cream cheese. Cut it into 6 to 8 chunks and microwave until it reaches room temperature (30-60 seconds depending on your microwave). Add the cream cheese to the slow cooker. Let it melt into the chili while stirring occasionally throughout the last 20-25 minutes of cooking until fully incorporated. Serve hot and garnish as desired.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili!

How to Serve Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili

Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili is a delightful dish that warms you up on chilly days. It can be served in various ways, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Toppings

• Green Onions – Chopped green onions add a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
• Cheddar Cheese – Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top for a creamy, savory finish.
• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream balances the spices with its coolness.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread – Serve warm cornbread on the side for a sweet and buttery complement.
• Tortilla Chips – Provide crunchy tortilla chips for dipping and added texture.
• Rice – Offer cooked rice as a hearty base to soak up the chili’s flavors.

Garnishes

• Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado slices enhance the dish’s richness and nutrition.
• Lime Wedges – Fresh lime wedges can brighten up the flavors with their zesty kick.

How to Perfect Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili

To ensure your Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips:

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and spices will elevate the flavor of your chili significantly.
• Adjust spice levels – If you prefer it spicier, add more chili powder or diced jalapeños to suit your taste.
• Stir occasionally – Stirring the chili during cooking helps distribute flavors evenly and prevents sticking.
• Let it sit before serving – Allowing the chili to sit for a few minutes after cooking enhances its flavors as they meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread – Perfect for dipping into the chili, garlic bread brings a toastiness that complements the dish well.
2. Salad Greens – A simple mixed greens salad adds freshness and balances out the hearty chili.
3. Baked Potatoes – Serve baked potatoes with toppings such as cheese or chives for a filling side option.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Try serving stuffed bell peppers filled with rice and veggies alongside your chili for extra flavor.
5. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, cutting through the creaminess of the chili.
6. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad can offer a nutritious contrast while enhancing your meal’s overall profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili experience. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the sausage preparation: Forgetting to properly cook and crumble the sausage can lead to uneven flavors. Always cook it until it’s nicely browned before adding it to the crockpot.
• Neglecting to drain beans and corn: Using canned beans and corn without draining them can make your chili overly watery. Be sure to drain these ingredients well for the best texture.
• Adding cream cheese too early: If you add cream cheese at the beginning, it may not melt properly. Wait until 20-30 minutes before serving to ensure it blends smoothly into the chili.
• Not stirring regularly: Failing to stir occasionally during the last cooking phase can result in clumps of cream cheese. Stirring helps distribute flavors evenly.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Everyone’s taste buds are different. Always taste and adjust seasonings like cumin or chili powder towards the end for a perfectly balanced flavor.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili

• Freeze in portion-sized containers or freezer bags.
• Enjoy within 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 25 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, on high in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing and enjoying Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili:

Can I use ground turkey instead of sausage?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a lean alternative. Cook it just like you would the sausage for great flavor.

What can I substitute for chicken stock?

Vegetable broth is a great substitute if you want a vegetarian option while still keeping that rich taste.

How spicy is this chili?

The heat level depends on the type of green chilies used. You can adjust the spiciness by using mild or spicy varieties according to your preference.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I serve this chili?

Serve hot with toppings such as green onions, cheddar cheese, or sour cream for added richness and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili is perfect for cozy nights when you crave comfort food with a twist. Its creamy texture combined with delightful spices makes it a hit among family and friends. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings!