Savory Pumpkin Beer Chili

5 from 12 votes

This flavorful and hearty pumpkin chili is full of beans, smoky spices and a bit of pumpkin puree that gives the chili a slight creaminess.

Prep Time10

Cook Time4

Total Time4 10

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: pumpkin chili

Servings: servings

Calories: 519kcal

In a large dutch oven, saute onion in olive oil for about 5 minutes until it begins to caramelize. Add the chopped garlic and cook for another minute.
Move the onion and garlic to the sides of the pot and drizzle center with more olive oil, if needed. Add the chopped meat, breaking up as you you go. Continue cooking until the beef is a just about cooked through.
Add all of the spices and the bay leaf and cook spices with the onion and meat mixture for another minute. Pour the pumpkin beer in and bring to a boil, reducing the liquid. The beer should evaporate at least by half.
Add the chopped tomatoes with juice as well as the pumpkin puree, kidney and black beans, chopped sweet potato and chicken stock. Mix everything together and bring to a boil.
Cover the chili with a lid, leaving a small opening and continue simmering for 3-4 hours until the stew thickens and potatoes are fork tender.
To serve, garnish with the pumpkin chili with a dollop of sour cream, cilantro and sliced jalapeño.

Choose the Right Pumpkin: Opt for canned pumpkin puree or roast a sugar pumpkin for the best results. Fresh pumpkin adds a more pronounced flavor compared to store-bought pumpkin pie filling.

Pumpkin Beer Selection: Pumpkin beer is highly seasonal and may not be available all throughout the year. Pick a pumpkin flavored beer that you enjoy drinking, as its spiced flavor will shine through in the chili. If pumpkin beer isn't available, look for ales and stouts.

Texture Matters: To achieve the perfect consistency, partially mash some of the sweet potato and beans in the chili. This thickens the broth and gives it a satisfying, chunky texture.

Slow Cooker Option: Saute the onions, garlic and brown the meat in a skillet then add that with the rest of the ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender.