Description

A hearty, smoky, and slightly sweet chili inspired by the author’s grandmother, featuring ground beef, black beans, and a secret ingredient of pure pumpkin for a velvety texture.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds ground beef (80/20 fat ratio)
2 medium yellow onions, diced
6 cloves garlic, minced
2–3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (plus about 2 tablespoons sauce)
1 can (15 oz) canned pumpkin puree
2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cups beef broth (low-sodium)
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 square (1 oz) dark chocolate, chopped
1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
Black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until deeply browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat if desired.
Reduce heat to medium. Add diced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and chipotle peppers, stirring constantly for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add ground cumin, chili powder, and dried oregano. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release browned bits. Stir in canned pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.
Add drained black beans. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover with lid slightly ajar and simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Stir in chopped dark chocolate until melted. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. If too thick, add water or broth; if too thin, simmer uncovered for 10 more minutes.
Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

This chili tastes better the next day as flavors meld. The pumpkin acts as a natural thickener. Dark chocolate adds richness without making it taste like dessert. Can be made in a slow cooker by browning meat first, then cooking on low for 6-8 hours.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl with toppings
Calories: 450
Sugar: 8
Sodium: 600
Fat: 18
Saturated Fat: 6
Carbohydrates: 40
Fiber: 12
Protein: 30

Keywords: pumpkin chili, halloween recipe, nana's chili, slow cooker chili, one pot meal, fall recipes, comfort food, smoky chili