Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef Recipe
Meet your new weeknight dinner hero: Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef. This is comfort in a bowl, a hearty chili that doesn’t ask for hours of babysitting on the stove or a mile-long ingredient list. Bursts of naturally sweet butternut squash cozy up to protein-packed turkey (or beef, if you prefer), all simmered in a rich, aromatic sauce brimming with spices and black beans. Whether you serve it on a chilly fall night or simply need a nutritious, crowd-pleasing meal, this chili is a guaranteed mood-lifter that everyone at the table will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef are thoughtfully chosen for their simplicity and the way they deliver big flavor with minimal fuss. Each component adds something special – color, texture, heartiness, or that signature chili taste. Let’s break it down:
- Olive oil: Gives your meat and veggies that irresistible golden sear and helps blossom the flavors of the spices.
- Ground turkey or beef: Choose turkey for a lighter, lean protein or beef for richer depth – either brings plenty of flavor and substance.
- Onion: Provides a sweet-savory base that melds right into the chili as it cooks.
- Garlic: The aromatic backbone, delivering warmth and classic chili comfort.
- Butternut squash: Adds creamy texture and natural sweetness, making this chili both unique and extra satisfying.
- Black beans: For protein, fiber, and that signature hearty chili bite.
- Diced tomatoes (with juices): Lend tang, juiciness, and the bold tomato flavor every good chili needs.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato richness and thickens the chili just right.
- Low-sodium chicken or beef broth: The secret to a full-bodied, flavorful base without unnecessary saltiness.
- Chili powder: Delivers that essential Southwest taste, warming everything up nicely.
- Cumin: Brings deep earthiness and mild spice, making the whole pot taste more soulful.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that takes the flavor to another level.
- Dried oregano: Balances the richness with its fresh, herbal flair.
- Salt: Essential for drawing out and marrying all those fabulous flavors.
- Black pepper: Perks up every bite with a gentle, peppery kick.
- Chopped cilantro or green onions (for garnish): These bring brightness and a pop of color to finish each bowl beautifully.
How to Make Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add your ground turkey or beef, breaking it up with a spoon. As the meat browns, it’ll build the foundational flavor for this Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef. Stir occasionally until fully cooked and no longer pink, letting those tasty brown bits form—they’re pure flavor gold.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Toss in the diced onion and garlic, stirring often so the garlic doesn’t burn. Let them soften for 2 to 3 minutes. These aromatics blend right in with the meat, creating an irresistible, fragrant base that’ll have everyone wandering into the kitchen, lured by the delicious smell.
Step 3: Add Veggies, Beans, and Tomatoes
Next, introduce the peeled and cubed butternut squash, black beans, diced tomatoes (with all the juices), and tomato paste. These ingredients bring heartiness and a sweet tang, giving your chili its gorgeous color and texture. The butternut squash, in particular, will soak up the spices and become creamy and irresistible as it simmers.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Now, pour in the broth and sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so every bit of squash and bean is coated in savory, smoky goodness. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the squash is fork-tender and the chili has thickened to perfection.
Step 5: Adjust and Serve
Before serving, give your Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef a taste and adjust the salt or spices if needed. Ladle into bowls and crown each serving with a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or green onions. Get ready for cozy, contented smiles around your table.
How to Serve Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef
Garnishes
The best way to finish a bowl of chili is with a shower of something fresh! Chopped cilantro or green onions add a bright, herbaceous top note. For extra flair, add a dollop of sour cream, a pinch of shredded cheese, or even a few crunchy tortilla strips—your Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef will look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Pair your chili with a slab of buttery cornbread, some crispy tortilla chips, or even a side salad with lime vinaigrette for a full meal. Breadsticks or warm, fluffy rice also soak up every drop of this flavorful chili and make your meal extra satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the chili in individual bread bowls, or top baked sweet potatoes with a hearty spoonful for a truly show-stopping “chili night.” This chili also makes a fantastic topping for nachos, baked potatoes, or even stuffed into bell peppers for a fun twist on leftovers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To store leftover Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer to airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and tastes even better as the flavors continue to develop!
Freezing
This chili freezes beautifully. Spoon individual or family-sized portions into freezer-safe containers or bags (leave some space for expansion), and freeze for up to 3 months. Label and date everything so you’ll always know when a cozy bowl awaits.
Reheating
Reheat the chili on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. Or, microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, pausing to stir halfway. If the chili thickens too much in storage, just add a splash of broth or water to reach your preferred consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While butternut squash gives a lovely sweetness and creamy texture, you can swap in acorn squash, kabocha, or even peeled, cubed sweet potatoes for a similar result. Your Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef will still be hearty and delicious.
How spicy is this chili recipe?
This chili is moderately spiced to please most palates, but it’s easy to kick up the heat. Add a diced jalapeño, a pinch of cayenne, or some hot sauce if you crave extra fire!
Is this chili gluten-free?
Yes, Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef is naturally gluten-free as long as all your canned goods and broth are certified gluten-free. Always double check ingredient labels if serving someone with celiac or gluten intolerance.
Can I make this chili vegan or vegetarian?
Definitely! Just swap the turkey or beef for extra beans or a plant-based meat alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth. The chili will still capture all the great flavors you love.
What’s the best way to meal prep with this chili?
Make a big batch of Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef, portion it into containers, and refrigerate or freeze as needed. It’s ideal for weekday lunches or effortless dinners—just reheat, top with fresh garnish, and enjoy!
Final Thoughts
If you need a hearty, soul-warming meal that’s easy enough for a busy night but special enough for sharing, you can’t go wrong with Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef. Its comfort, color, and nutrition truly make it a winner. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll be looking for reasons to make it again and again!
Print
Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Warm up with a bowl of this comforting and nutritious Easy Butternut Squash Chili with your choice of ground turkey or beef. Packed with protein and fiber, this hearty dish is perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
For the Chili:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey or beef
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 cups butternut squash (peeled and cubed)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- chopped cilantro or green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the oil and brown the meat: In a large pot, heat olive oil and brown the ground turkey or beef.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add remaining ingredients: Stir in butternut squash, black beans, tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, and spices.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then simmer for 25–30 minutes until squash is tender.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning, then serve hot with garnishes.
Notes
- Add corn or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
- For a spicier version, stir in a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1½ cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
