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Pumpkin Chili Mac Dinner Recipe

Jennifer Watson
This cozy dish combines the goodness of pumpkin with the heartiness of chili and macaroni, making it perfect for a comforting dinner. šŸ² It's simple and quick to whip up with everyday ingredients you probably already have.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American comfort food
Servings 6 People
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • To make this delicious meal, I only need a few basic tools:
  • Large pot or Dutch oven: This is essential for cooking everything together.
  • Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the ingredients as they cook.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the flavors are spot on.
  • Colander: To drain the macaroni quickly and easily.
  • With these tools, I'm all set to create a warm and flavorful meal. šŸ˜Š

Ingredients
  

Here's what I need to gather to make this dish come to life:

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 15 oz pumpkin puree
  • 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes
  • 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, drained
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups macaroni noodles

All these ingredients work together to create a delightful flavor, and I love how the pumpkin adds a special twist!

Instructions
 

Making this dish is super easy, and the steps are straightforward:

  • Cook the beef: In the large pot, I brown the ground beef or turkey over medium heat.
  • Then, I drain any excess fat.
  • Add veggies and spices: I stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft.
  • Next, I add the pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, and beans.
  • Simmering time: I pour in the chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
  • I let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes.
  • Add macaroni: Finally, I stir in the macaroni noodles and cook until they're tender, around 10-12 minutes.

I enjoy the aroma that fills the kitchen as I cook this tasty meal. šŸ½ļø

    Notes

    There are a few handy tips I use when making Pumpkin Chili Mac:
    Substitute guide: If Iā€™m out of beef, turkey works just fine.
    Spice level: I like my chili mild, but adding more chili powder can kick it up a notch. šŸŒ¶ļø
    Make-ahead option: This dish keeps well, and I can enjoy leftovers for a day or two.
    These tips ensure that my meal is always a success, and I love how versatile and easy it is to prepare!
    Keyword Cozy chili mac meal, Easy weeknight dinner, Fall dinner ideas, Hearty comfort food, Kid-friendly pumpkin recipes, One pot pumpkin pasta, Pumpkin Chili Mac recipe, Pumpkin ground beef dinner