High-Protein Turkey Pumpkin Chili Meal Prep Bowl: 38 Grams of Protein Under $5

This turkey pumpkin chili brings a cozy, unexpected fall twist to a classic meal prep staple, stirring pumpkin puree right into the pot for extra body, richness, and subtle warmth. Lean ground turkey browns alongside onion and garlic before black beans, diced tomatoes, and that spoonful of pumpkin join the mix, simmering low and slow until everything melds into a thick, deeply flavorful chili. A touch of cinnamon alongside the usual chili powder and cumin gives this pot a distinctly autumnal edge, without ever tasting overtly like pumpkin pie. The pumpkin also adds a subtle nutritional boost and helps the chili thicken beautifully, creating a genuinely hearty texture that holds up well through several days of reheating. This chili actually improves with time in the fridge, making it an excellent make-ahead option for a week of cozy, satisfying dinners. With 38 grams of protein per serving and a genuinely comforting fall flavor profile, this bowl earns its place as a seasonal favorite in the Sunday meal prep rotation. At $4.20 per serving, it’s a warming way to use pumpkin beyond the usual pie and latte applications.

High-Protein Turkey Pumpkin Chili Meal Prep Bowl

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Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 1

Calories: 390

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 6 oz lean ground turkey
• 1/2 cup black beans drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

 

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the black beans, pumpkin puree, and diced tomatoes.
5. Season with chili powder, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
6. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
7. Let cool slightly.
8. Divide into a meal prep container.
9. Serve warm, or store for later in the week.

Notes

A single can of pumpkin puree stirs into an entire pot of chili and adds richness without much added cost, while also stretching further than extra meat would.