If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili is a delightful blend of flavors that will make you feel like you’re wrapped in a warm blanket. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this chili is perfect for any occasion. The creamy pumpkin base combined with savory maple breakfast sausage creates a unique twist on traditional chili that everyone will love!

What makes this recipe extra special is its simplicity and heartiness. You can throw everything into the crockpot and let it do all the work while you go about your day. Trust me, when you come home to the aroma of this comforting dish, it’s pure bliss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super easy preparation: Just toss everything in the crockpot and let it cook; no complicated steps here!
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this creamy and delicious chili.
Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep or making ahead for leftovers that taste even better!
Unique flavor: The pumpkin adds an unexpected twist that will impress your guests and make your taste buds sing.
Cozy comfort food: Ideal for chilly days or gatherings, this dish brings warmth to any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this cozy Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients. They come together beautifully to create a rich and satisfying meal!

For the Chili Base

1 12 ounce package maple breakfast links
2 15oz cans great northern beans, drained
1 15oz can whole corn kernels, drained
1 4oz can diced green chilies
1 10oz can diced tomatoes with green chilies (ro-tel)
1 15oz can pure pumpkin puree
4 cups (32 ounces) chicken stock

For the Spice Blend

1 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Creamy Finish

8 ounces plain cream cheese
green onion (for garnish)
cheddar cheese (for garnish)
sour cream (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and customize it to suit your tastes.

Swap the protein: If you’re not in the mood for sausage, try using turkey or chicken sausage instead.
Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
Make it spicier: If you love heat, add some jalapeños or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Go vegan: Substitute the cream cheese with cashew cream or dairy-free cream cheese for a plant-based version.

How to Make Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage

Using a knife, carefully remove the casings from all of the maple breakfast links. Heat them in a skillet over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. This step is crucial as it releases those delicious flavors into the chili while ensuring that your sausage is perfectly cooked.

Step 2: Combine All Ingredients

In your crockpot, add the cooked maple breakfast sausage along with great northern beans, corn kernels, diced green chilies, diced tomatoes with chilies, pumpkin puree, chicken stock, ground cumin, chili powder, ground nutmeg, and black pepper. Stir everything together well—this is where all those wonderful flavors start to mingle!

Step 3: Slow Cook Away

Set your crockpot on low and let it work its magic for about 6-8 hours. The long cooking time allows all these ingredients to blend together beautifully. Plus, you’ll have plenty of time to get cozy while waiting!

Step 4: Add Cream Cheese

About 20-30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, it’s time to add the cream cheese. Cut it into chunks and microwave until it’s at room temperature—this helps it melt smoothly into the chili. Stir occasionally as it melts over those last few minutes of cooking until fully incorporated. Serve hot with your favorite garnishes like green onions, cheddar cheese, and sour cream.

Enjoy this heartwarming Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili with friends and family! It’s sure to become a beloved staple in your home just like it has in mine.

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili

Making this cozy chili is a breeze, and with a few extra tips, you can elevate it to perfection!

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and quality canned goods can significantly enhance the flavor of your chili, making it more vibrant and delicious.
Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. This allows you to customize the heat according to your taste.
Prep ahead: Chop your vegetables and pre-measure your spices the night before. This not only saves time but also ensures a smooth cooking process in the morning.
Experiment with toppings: Feel free to mix and match toppings like avocado slices or crushed tortilla chips for added texture and flavor. It makes each bowl uniquely yours!
Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days or can be frozen for future meals.

How to Serve Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili

Serving this delightful chili is just as important as making it! Here are some creative ways to present your dish that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

Chopped green onions: These add a fresh crunch and a pop of color that enhances the visual appeal of your chili.
Shredded cheddar cheese: A sprinkle of cheese on top melts beautifully into the warm chili, providing a creamy finish that complements the pumpkin flavors.
Sour cream dollops: Adding a spoonful of sour cream not only balances the spices but also gives a rich creaminess that makes every bite luxurious.

Side Dishes

Cornbread: This classic pairing is perfect for soaking up all the delicious chili goodness. Its slightly sweet flavor contrasts beautifully with the spiciness of the chili.
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili. It’s easy to throw together and adds vibrant color to your meal.
Baked Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips are great for dipping or scooping up the chili. You can season them with a bit of salt and paprika for an extra kick!
Rice or Quinoa: A side of fluffy rice or nutty quinoa can turn this dish into a heartier meal, making it perfect for satisfying hungry bellies.

Now that you’re armed with these tips and serving ideas, it’s time to gather your ingredients and create this delightful Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili! Enjoy each comforting bite this fall season brings.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili is not only a delicious choice for dinner but also an excellent option for meal prep. You can make a big batch ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Let the chili cool to room temperature.
Portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe dish in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

You may have some questions about this delightful recipe. Here are a few common inquiries!

Can I make Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the maple breakfast sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it altogether. The beans and pumpkin provide plenty of flavor and protein.

How spicy is the Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. The diced green chilies add mild heat, but you could include fresh jalapeños or use spicier diced tomatoes if you prefer more kick!

Can I use a different type of bean in this chili?

Certainly! While great northern beans work wonderfully, you can substitute them with black beans or kidney beans for a different flavor and texture.

What can I serve with Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili?

This chili pairs well with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad. You can also top it with cheese, sour cream, and sliced green onions for added flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Crockpot Creamy Pumpkin Chili as much as I do! It’s the perfect blend of flavors that warms your soul during chilly days. Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings or sides, and feel free to share your experiences in the comments below. Happy cooking!