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Harvest Chili

A soul-warming chili that celebrates fall with rich tomatoes, hearty beans, warming spices, and autumn vegetables like sweet bell peppers and squash. It’s slow-simmered for deep flavor, ideal for cozy nights and crisp afternoons — and can be made vegetarian or meaty, depending on your preference.
Course Entrée, Stew
Cuisine American Southwest / Fall Comfort
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Calories 250kcal

Ingredients

  • Base Vegetables & Aromatics
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 1 red bell pepper chopped
  • 1 yellow or orange bell pepper chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup diced butternut squash or sweet potato optional, fall-friendly
  • 1 medium zucchini chopped
  • Beans & Tomatoes
  • 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 –1½ cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
  • Protein optional
  • 1 lb ground turkey or beef omit for vegetarian
  • Spices & Seasoning
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp cinnamon warm fall note
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Optional: ½ tsp chipotle powder or a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang

Instructions

  • Sauté the Base
  • Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
  • Add bell peppers, zucchini, and squash. Sauté 5–7 minutes until just softened.
  • Brown the Protein (if using)
  • Add ground meat (if using) to the pot and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
  • Add Spices & Tomato Paste
  • Stir in chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, and cinnamon. Add tomato paste and stir for 1 minute to toast the spices.
  • Add Beans & Liquid
  • Add beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), and broth. Stir well to combine.
  • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Adjust & Finish
  • Taste and adjust seasoning — add salt, pepper, chipotle, or vinegar if needed. For thicker chili, simmer longer uncovered.

Notes

Nutrient
Amount
Calories
250 kcal
Total Fat
9 g
Saturated Fat
1 g
Cholesterol (meat version)
40 mg
Sodium
450 mg
Total Carbs
25 g
Dietary Fiber
9 g
Sugar Alcohols
0 g
Net Carbs
16 g
Protein
15–20 g (with meat) / 10 g (veg only)
Net Carbs = Total Carbs – Fiber
All values are estimates and vary based on brand and ingredient choice.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
  • Top with shredded cheddar, Greek yogurt, sliced avocado, or fresh cilantro
 
  • Serve with Golden Dolci rolls, almond flour cornbread, or over a baked sweet potato
 
  • Pair with a crisp salad for a nourishing full meal