Description
This Easy Butternut Squash Chili with Turkey or Beef is a hearty, nutritious dish perfect for cozy dinners. Combining tender butternut squash, savory ground meat, beans, and warm spices, this chili offers a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a flavorful, one-pot meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey or beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- 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 to ensure even cooking and a crumbly texture.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add Vegetables and Spices: Stir in the cubed butternut squash, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat all ingredients with the spices.
- Simmer the Chili: Pour in the 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 and flavors meld together.
- Optional Corn Addition: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add corn kernels to the chili for added texture and sweetness. Stir to combine and cook through.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired for a fresh herbal note.
Notes
- You can use either ground turkey or beef based on your preference.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use vegetable broth.
- Adjust the chili powder and spices to your desired heat level.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Serve with toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado for extra richness.
