As the crisp autumn air sweeps in and the leaves begin to transform into vibrant hues of orange and gold, it’s the perfect time to cozy up with a warm bowl of chili. And let me tell you about this Keto Pumpkin Chili—it’s like wrapping yourself in a soft, fuzzy blanket while sitting by the fireplace with your favorite book. Seriously, it’s that comforting!
Picture this: you’ve just returned home after a long day, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. Enter this chili, which not only warms your heart but also fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle. It’s packed with savory ground beef, creamy pumpkin, and a delightful blend of spices that will have your taste buds doing a little happy dance.
I still chuckle at the time I made this for a gathering. I thought I could save some for lunch the next day, but it disappeared faster than you could say “fall comfort food.” The laughter, the stories shared, and the delicious aroma wafting through the kitchen—it was a night to remember. So grab your favorite bowl and let’s dive into this recipe that’s bound to be your new autumn obsession!
Table of Contents
Look at the Recipe (Key Highlights) |
Ingredients for Keto Pumpkin Chili |
How to Make This Healthy Keto Pumpkin Chili |
Storage & Serving Suggestions |
Tips & FAQs |
Look at the Recipe (Key Highlights )
Keto Pumpkin Chili: This flavorful, low-carb chili brings the perfect balance of hearty beef, creamy pumpkin, and spices to satisfy your cravings while staying keto-friendly.
Pumpkin-Infused Fall Comfort: The rich, velvety pumpkin puree adds depth and a seasonal touch to this dish, making it a go-to for chilly fall evenings.
Low-Carb Chili Recipe: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this keto chili is a filling and nutritious option that keeps the carbs low without sacrificing flavor.
Family-Friendly Keto Dinner: With simple ingredients and easy steps, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, offering a wholesome meal everyone will love.
Lupini Beans for Extra Protein: Unlike traditional beans, lupini beans are low in carbs and provide an extra protein boost, keeping this chili both hearty and keto-compliant.
Customizable & Versatile: Whether you like it spicy or mild, with extra toppings like cheese and avocado, this recipe is easy to adapt for different preferences and dietary needs.
Keto Comfort Food at Its Best: This is not just a meal; it’s a warm, cozy bowl of comfort that’ll have your family asking for seconds.
Ready in 30 Minutes: Quick and simple, this chili can be on the table in half an hour, making it the ultimate weeknight dinner that delivers both on flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients Needed
- Ground beef
- Red bell pepper, chopped
- Diced tomatoes in tomato juice
- Pumpkin puree
- Chili powder
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Lupini beans
- Salt and pepper
How to Make Keto Pumpkin Chili
- Brown the Meat: Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Break it up into small pieces like you’re defeating a pile of stress from the day—get that meat nice and crumbly!
- Combine Ingredients: Once the beef is beautifully browned, strain any excess fat (unless you want to swim in it, and we definitely don’t). Return the meat to the pot, and then toss in the chopped red bell pepper, those diced tomatoes (juice and all), pumpkin puree, and the magical lupini beans.
- Season to Perfection: This is where the magic happens! Sprinkle in the chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together like you’re conducting a symphony of flavors. Take a moment to inhale deeply—ah, that’s the smell of happiness right there!
- Let It Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes. This is your time to kick back, put your feet up, and maybe even do a little dance. Those flavors need to meld together, and the chili needs to feel loved!
- Taste and Adjust: After simmering, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning. Maybe it needs a little more heat or a dash of salt—this is your masterpiece, after all!
- Final Cook: Cook for an additional 5 minutes, and just like that, your Keto Pumpkin Chili is ready to steal the show!
Storage and Serving Tips
How to Store
- Refrigerator: If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (seriously, you might want to hide some in the back of the fridge), store them in an airtight container. It’ll keep well for about 4 days. Just reheat it on the stove or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy a second round of bliss!
- Freezer: If you want to save some for later (or hide it from family members), freeze the chili in individual portions. It can hang out in your freezer for up to 3 months. Pro tip: Label your containers with the date—you’ll thank me later when you’re fishing around for a delicious meal!
Serving Suggestions
- Garnishes: Get creative with toppings! Shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and slices of avocado add a delightful richness. Fresh cilantro or chopped green onions can brighten things up—just think of them as little flavor fireworks on your chili!
- Sides: Pair your chili with keto-friendly cornbread or a fresh garden salad. You could even serve it over zucchini noodles for a fun twist. Trust me, your friends will think you’re a culinary genius!
FAQs for Keto Pumpkin Chili
1. Can I make this Keto Pumpkin Chili ahead of time?
Yes! Keto Pumpkin Chili is even better the next day. It’s perfect for meal prep, as the flavors deepen when it sits overnight. Make a big batch, store it in the fridge, and reheat for a quick, low-carb chili dinner later in the week. Plus, your family will think you’re a kitchen magician pulling off homemade chili that quickly!
2. What makes this chili keto-friendly?
Traditional chili is loaded with beans, but we’ve swapped those out for lupini beans, which are low in carbs but still offer that hearty texture you love in chili. The pumpkin puree adds a creamy richness, while keeping the carb count low, making this the ultimate keto pumpkin recipe for fall.
3. How do I store leftover Keto Pumpkin Chili?
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store your pumpkin chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or microwave. It’s also freezer-friendly for up to 3 months, making it a perfect meal prep recipe. A future you will appreciate the ease of having a homemade low-carb chili ready to go!
4. Can I make this chili spicier?
Definitely! If you love a kick, feel free to add extra chili powder, a dash of hot sauce, or a chopped jalapeño. Pumpkin chili is super versatile, so whether you like a little heat or want your mouth on fire (in a good way), you can easily customize the spice level to your liking.
5. What can I serve with Keto Pumpkin Chili?
Serve this healthy chili recipe with low-carb sides like cauliflower rice, a fresh green salad, or keto-friendly breadsticks. And don’t forget the toppings! Sour cream, shredded cheese, and avocado slices turn this bowl of cozy chili into a dreamy keto comfort food experience.
6. Is this chili family-friendly?
Absolutely! Even the pickiest eaters will love the rich flavors of this keto pumpkin chili. It’s hearty, filling, and has the kind of comforting taste that brings everyone to the table. The best part? It’s secretly healthy, so you’ll feel great serving it to your family.
Health Benefits of Keto Pumpkin Chili
You might be wondering, “What makes this chili so special?” Let me break it down for you:
Nutrient-Dense Pumpkin
Pumpkin isn’t just for Halloween decorations; it’s a powerhouse of nutrients! Rich in vitamins A and C, it supports your immune system and provides antioxidant benefits. Plus, that fiber content helps you feel fuller longer—who doesn’t want to feel satisfied?
Protein-Packed Base
The ground beef in this chili provides a hefty dose of protein. Protein is essential for maintaining muscle, especially when you’re on a ketogenic diet, where muscle maintenance can sometimes take a back seat.
Low-Carb Goodness
Lupini beans are a fantastic alternative to traditional beans, providing the heartiness without the carb overload. They’re high in protein and fiber, making them an excellent addition to this comforting dish
Keto Pumpkin Chili: A Hearty Low-Carb Delight
Description
Enjoy this Keto Pumpkin Chili, a flavorful low-carb dish packed with nutrition and perfect for fall.
Ingredients
Instructions
Directions:
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Brown the Meat: Over medium heat, brown the ground beef in a large pot until it's nicely cooked. Strain the fat if necessary and return the meat to the pot.
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Mix It Up: Stir in the chopped bell pepper, lupini beans, diced tomatoes with juice, pumpkin puree, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
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Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Taste Test: Give it a taste! Adjust the seasoning as needed to get that perfect balance.
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Final Cook: Cook for an additional 5 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 279kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 15g24%
- Saturated Fat 6g30%
- Cholesterol 89mg30%
- Sodium 450mg19%
- Total Carbohydrate 8g3%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Protein 30g60%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Every time I make this Keto Pumpkin Chili, I’m reminded of the beautiful moments shared with my family. I can still picture that autumn evening when I first whipped it up. The leaves were swirling outside, and my kids were bustling around the kitchen, their laughter filling the air.
As the chili simmered, the warmth and aroma wrapped around us like a cozy blanket. When it was finally time to eat, we gathered at the table, and every bite was met with delighted smiles and happy chatter. It wasn’t just about the food; it was about the love and laughter that came with it.
Cooking this chili has become a cherished tradition in our home, reminding us that the best memories are made around the dinner table. I hope this recipe brings you and your family the same joy and warmth it has brought us!