Fall Harvest Ground Turkey Chili

When the leaves begin their colorful dance outside your window and the air carries that unmistakable crispness, there’s nothing quite as comforting as tucking into a steaming bowl of hearty chili. Fall Harvest Ground Turkey Chili is a celebration of autumn’s bounty, bringing together vibrant vegetables, lean ground turkey, and a symphony of warming spices. Each spoonful is a cozy hug for your taste buds, pairing the earthy sweetness of carrots and zucchini with the subtle smokiness of paprika and cumin. This is the kind of dish that invites laughter around the table, nostalgic conversation, and the delight of sharing something wholesome and satisfying with loved ones.

This chili isn’t just about flavor—it’s about ease and comfort too. Rated as a beginner-friendly dinner, you’ll be knocking it out of the park with just 15 minutes of prep, 45 minutes of simmering, and a brief 10-minute rest before serving. At around 350 calories per serving, it fits perfectly into healthy eating goals without skimping on that crave-worthy warmth we all crave on chilly nights. Whether you’re craving a no-fuss weeknight meal or planning a cozy gathering with friends, this recipe checks all the boxes: chili, ground turkey, fall recipes, comfort food, healthy eating, and a hearty meal that feels like home.

KEY INGREDIENTS IN FALL HARVEST GROUND TURKEY CHILI

Every great chili starts with thoughtful, fresh ingredients that work together in harmony. In this section, we’ll break down each component of the Fall Harvest Ground Turkey Chili so you know exactly why it deserves a prime spot in your pantry and refrigerator.

• Olive Oil: A heart-healthy cooking fat that helps brown the turkey and softens vegetables, creating a flavor-rich base.
• Ground Turkey: Lean and packed with protein, turkey absorbs spices beautifully and keeps the chili light yet satisfying.
• Onion: When diced and sautéed, it brings subtle sweetness and a foundational layer of savory depth.
• Garlic: Minced garlic infuses every spoonful with its aromatic punch, elevating the overall flavor profile.
• Bell Pepper: Adds crisp texture and natural sweetness, plus a pop of vibrant color that brightens each bowl.
• Carrots: Chopped carrots contribute a gentle earthiness and a hint of sweetness that balances the spices.
• Celery: Provides a refreshing crunch and aromatic undertones that make the chili taste complex and well-rounded.
• Chili Powder: The spicy backbone of the chili, offering bold warmth and a classic kick that defines this dish.
• Ground Cumin: Brings that distinctive smoky-earth flavor, blending seamlessly with chili powder for depth.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds an extra layer of smoky richness, complementing the turkey and vegetables.
• Dried Oregano: Offers herbal notes that tie all the flavors together with a Mediterranean twist.
• Cayenne Pepper (optional): For those who like it hot, a dash of cayenne intensifies the heat without overpowering.
• Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance each ingredient’s natural taste.
• Crushed Tomatoes: Provides a luscious, tangy base that thickens the chili and delivers rich tomato flavor.
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Loosens the chili to a perfect consistency, adding savory depth and moisture.
• Black Beans: Creamy beans that soak up flavors and lend a hearty, protein-packed texture.
• Kidney Beans: Robust and meaty in texture, they make each bite satisfyingly substantial.
• Corn Kernels: Sweet bursts of corn complement the savory elements and add delightful pops of color.
• Zucchini: Light and tender, zucchini contributes a fresh, mild flavor that rounds out the vegetables.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash of acidity that brightens the chili and balances all the rich, savory notes.
• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed for a zesty finish that lifts the overall flavor profile.
• Fresh Cilantro: Garnish that delivers a fresh, herbaceous note right before serving, making each bowl come alive.

HOW TO MAKE FALL HARVEST GROUND TURKEY CHILI

Let’s dive into the heart of the kitchen and bring this Fall Harvest Ground Turkey Chili to life. From the golden browning of the turkey to the gentle simmer that coaxes out every hint of flavor, each step is designed to be straightforward and satisfying. Follow along and you’ll have a soul-warming dinner ready in no time.

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until it’s evenly browned, about 5–7 minutes. Use a spoon to break up the meat as it cooks, ensuring there are no large chunks and the turkey gets a nice, golden color.

2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir frequently and cook until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion turns translucent, about 5 minutes. This builds a flavorful foundation.

3. Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for another 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly until the spices become aromatic and coat the meat and veggies.

4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine everything. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.

5. Reduce the heat to low and gently fold in the black beans, kidney beans, corn, and zucchini. Let the chili simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and flavors meld.

6. Stir in the apple cider vinegar and lime juice, tasting and adjusting the seasoning as needed. The vinegar and lime will brighten all the deep, savory notes.

7. Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot, and watch the smiles appear around your table.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR FALL HARVEST GROUND TURKEY CHILI

There’s something magical about presenting a pot of steaming chili, its inviting colors and robust aroma promising comfort and warmth. With a few simple touches and side accompaniments, you can elevate this hearty meal into an unforgettable fall feast. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner for friends or simply spoiling your family on a weeknight, these serving ideas will make every bite feel special. From crusty bread to customizable toppings, here’s how to serve your chili like a pro and create a memorable autumn dining experience.

• Crusty Bread Bowl: Hollow out a round loaf of sourdough or boule, then ladle the hot chili inside. The bread soaks up the flavorful broth, creating a cozy, edible bowl that’s perfect for sopping up every last drop.
• Classic Cornbread: Serve a slice of warm, buttery cornbread on the side. Its slightly sweet crumb contrasts beautifully with the spiced chili, making each bite a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
• Topping Bar: Set out bowls of shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, chopped green onions, and extra cilantro. Let guests customize their bowls, adding creamy, tangy, or fresh notes to suit their taste.
• Tortilla Chips or Fritos: For a playful crunch, place a handful of sturdy tortilla chips or Fritos alongside the chili. They’re perfect for scooping up chunky bites and add a festive, casual vibe to the meal.

HOW TO STORE FALL HARVEST GROUND TURKEY CHILI

Leftover chili can be just as delightful as the first batch—if stored correctly. Proper storage preserves the vibrant flavors and textures, ensuring you can enjoy your fall comfort food throughout the week. Whether you’re saving portions for a busy night or stashing extras for a chilly weekend, these simple methods will help your chili taste freshly made every time.

• Refrigerate in an Airtight Container: Allow the chili to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a sealed container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Freeze in Portion-Sized Bags: Divide cooled chili into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Vacuum-Sealed Storage: If you have a vacuum sealer, package the chili in vacuum bags to extend freezer life and prevent freezer burn. Thaw and reheat as you would with standard freezer bags.
• Mash and Reheat Technique: When reheating, stir frequently and mash a few spoonfuls against the side of the pot. This recreates that just-cooked texture by breaking down any separation, giving you a silky, cohesive chili every time.

CONCLUSION

This Fall Harvest Ground Turkey Chili has everything you need for a satisfying, healthy, and unforgettable dinner. We’ve explored how to transform lean ground turkey, crisp autumn vegetables, and a blend of warming spices into a cozy, nutrient-packed meal that welcomes cooler evenings and fosters togetherness around the table. From the careful selection of key ingredients to the step-by-step cooking process, and from creative serving suggestions to foolproof storage methods, this article is your go-to guide for mastering a hearty meal that fits seamlessly into your fall recipe rotation. Remember, this dish is perfect for beginners and seasoned home cooks alike, and at just 350 calories per serving, you can indulge in comfort food without compromise.

Feel free to print this article and save it in your favorite recipe binder, or bookmark it in your digital library for easy access when you need a reliable, crowd-pleasing dinner idea. Scroll down to find a handy FAQ section that answers common questions you might have. If you try this chili—or if you have tweaks and twists of your own—I’d love to hear your story. Leave a comment, share your feedback, or ask any questions you have about ingredients, techniques, or substitutions. Your culinary adventures are what make cooking so rewarding, and I’m here to cheer you on every step of the way. Happy cooking!

Print Recipe

Fall Harvest Ground Turkey Chili

Author: Anna Dubois Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 45 mins Rest Time 10 mins Total Time 1 hr 10 mins

Calories: 350

Description

This chili bursts with delicious autumn flavors from ground turkey and fresh vegetables, all simmered to perfection. Each bite is a cozy celebration of fall!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 pound ground turkey

• 1 large onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 large bell pepper, chopped

• 2 carrots, chopped

• 2 stalks celery, chopped

• 2 tablespoons chili powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

• 1 zucchini, diced

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• Juice of 1 lime

• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the spices are fragrant.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and add the black beans, kidney beans, corn, and zucchini. Simmer the chili uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Stir in the apple cider vinegar and lime juice. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
7. Serve the chili hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Note

• This chili is perfect for making ahead and storing in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months.
• Serve with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal.
• For a thicker chili, use less broth or simmer for a longer period of time.
• Customize with your favorite toppings such as cheese, avocado, or sour cream.

Keywords: chili, ground turkey, fall recipes, comfort food, healthy eating, hearty meal