Around here, chili is a must for Halloween night – preferably, one that’s been simmering in the Crock Pot all day.
We’ve got enough going on with getting the little one dressed up and handing out candy to other cute trick-or-treaters – we don’t have time to worry about dinner. Chili – pumpkin chili, in particular, because what could be more appropriate – is not only an easy dinner, it’s cozy, comforting, and warms you up after traipsing around the neighborhood. (We also usually have another slow cooker going with this delicious warming stuff in it, too. Isn’t fall wonderful?)
Okay! Here are 5 Perfect-for-Halloween Pumpkin Chili Recipes:
Slow Cooker Black Bean Pumpkin Chili from Kitchen Treaty
Black beans and pumpkins are BFFs, and this cozy meatless chili shamelessly takes advantage of that natural pairing. It’s a Crock Pot chili, so just assemble it in the morning, come home later, and devour before hitting the ‘hood for candy.
Pumpkin Chili with Chickpeas from Julia’s Album
I adore chickpeas in chili (it totally works) so my heart skipped a beat when I happened across this veggie-friendly pumpkin chili from Julia’s Album. Yum!
Slow Cooker Pumpkin Red Lentil Chili from Kitchen Treaty
Hearty, protein-rich lentils amp up this richly spiced pumpkin chili. Plus, it’s vegetarian – vegan if you adjust the toppings. Bonus: It’s a slow cooker recipe, allowing you to focus on trick-or-treaters rather than dinner prep.
Slow Cooker Pumpkin Beer Chili from Baked by Rachel
This one has ground beef and beer – basically, it would make my guy super happy. And plenty of others, too.
Vegetarian Pumpkin Chili from The Kitchn
Anne sought a hearty pumpkin chili with actual chunks of pumpkin – not puree. She couldn’t find one, so she made her own. And we’re so glad she did.
And a few ideas for the must-have side …
Any of these scrumptious cornbread recipes should do you just fine when served alongside your pumpkin chili of choice. Pumpkin Cornbread from Recipe Girl :: Cheddar Beer Cornbread :: Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread Muffins from The Comfort of Cooking :: Butternut Squash Cornbread from Diana Rattray :: Gluten-free and vegan Chickpea Cornbread from Nosh and Nourish