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Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef Recipe

Easy Butternut Squash Chili With Turkey or Beef Recipe
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4.6 from 22 reviews

This Easy Butternut Squash Chili with Turkey or Beef is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for chilly nights. Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a comforting meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the chili:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ground turkey or ground beef
  • 3 cups peeled and cubed butternut squash
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken or beef broth
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil: In a large pot over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
  2. Sauté aromatics: Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  3. Cook meat: Add ground turkey or beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
  4. Add ingredients: Stir in butternut squash, red bell pepper, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth.
  5. Season: Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  6. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30–35 minutes, until squash is tender and chili is thickened.
  7. Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Serve: Serve hot with desired toppings like avocado, sour cream, or shredded cheese.

Notes

  • This chili tastes even better the next day and can be made ahead.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add extra beans or lentils.
  • Leftovers freeze well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

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