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Cozy Butternut Squash Chili Recipe Perfect for Fall

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A hearty, comforting chili made with creamy butternut squash, white beans, and warm spices—perfect for crisp fall evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and diced into bite-sized cubes
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 can (15 ounces) white beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (13.5 ounces) coconut milk (full-fat or light)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional garnishes: fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, lime wedges, tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
  3. Add the butternut squash cubes and stir to coat in the oil. Cook for 5 minutes, letting the edges start to caramelize.
  4. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly coat the squash and onion mixture.
  5. Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
  6. Stir in the white beans and coconut milk. Simmer for another 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding a drizzle of maple syrup for sweetness if desired.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, lime wedges, and tortilla chips if you like.

Notes

Cut squash evenly for consistent cooking. Sauté spices with the squash to enhance flavor. Adjust seasoning and sweetness to taste. Chili tastes even better after resting for a few minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: butternut squash chili, vegan chili, fall recipes, gluten-free chili, cozy comfort food