Craving a comforting and wholesome meal that practically cooks itself? This Slow Cooker Butternut Squash and Turkey Chili is a perfect Healthy Crock Pot Dinner, offering a delicious way to enjoy hearty chili with a seasonal twist. It’s incredibly easy to make and packed with flavor, ideal for busy weeknights.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ground Turkey: You can also use lean ground chicken for a similar healthy option.
- Butternut Squash: If fresh isn’t available, use pre-cut frozen butternut squash.
- Canned Tomatoes: Diced or crushed tomatoes work best; adjust to your texture preference.
- Beans: Kidney beans and black beans are traditional, but feel free to use pinto beans.
- Broth: Vegetable broth can be used instead of chicken broth for a different flavor profile.
Ingredients:
Main:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups cubed butternut squash (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Spices:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 4-6 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low
- Total time: 4 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
- Tools needed: Large skillet, 6-quart slow cooker
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Turkey
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the turkey and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Combine in Slow Cooker
Transfer the turkey and onion mixture to your slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (undrained), rinsed and drained kidney beans, black beans, cubed butternut squash, and chicken broth.
4. Add the Spices
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season generously with salt and black pepper. Mix everything well to combine.
5. Cook Until Tender
Cover your slow cooker and cook on high for 4-6 hours or on low for 6-8 hours, or until the butternut squash is very tender and the flavors have melded. Give it a stir occasionally if you’re home.
6. Serve and Garnish
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle the chili into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, before serving this delicious Healthy Crock Pot Dinner.
Variation Ideas:
- Extra Veggies: Add chopped bell peppers, corn, or zucchini during the last hour of cooking.
- Smoky Flavor: A pinch of chipotle powder can add a deeper, smoky heat.
- Sweeter Touch: A tablespoon of maple syrup or brown sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Slow Cooker Butternut Squash and Turkey Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This healthy crock pot dinner freezes beautifully; simply transfer cooled chili to freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you make this chili vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the ground turkey and add an extra can of beans (like pinto beans) or lentils for a vegetarian version.
Do you have to brown the turkey first?
While not strictly necessary, browning the turkey first adds a richer flavor and improves the texture of the chili.
Can you use fresh garlic instead of minced?
Absolutely, just mince 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic to use in the recipe.
How do you prevent the chili from being too watery?
Using crushed and diced tomatoes helps thicken the chili. If it’s still too thin at the end, you can remove the lid for the last hour of cooking to allow some liquid to evaporate.
Can you prepare this the night before?
Yes, you can assemble all the ingredients (except the cooking broth) in your slow cooker insert and refrigerate it overnight. Add the broth and cook as directed the next day.
What are good toppings for this chili?
Sour cream, shredded cheese, sliced avocado, green onions, and tortilla chips are all great toppings for this healthy crock pot dinner.