Instant Pot Halloween Chili

There is nothing like a piping hot bowl of chili to warm up a crisp Halloween evening The Instant Pot makes it incredibly easy to serve up a meal that is both comforting and packed with flavor Beans ground beef colorful veggies and a subtle pumpkin twist come together in this festive hearty dish that has quickly become my go to for busy autumn nights Whether you are prepping for trick or treating or entertaining friends this recipe promises full bellies and satisfied smiles

When I first made this chili for my family on Halloween my kids loved dipping pumpkin shaped chips into the thick rich stew Since then it has become our annual tradition right alongside carving pumpkins and watching spooky movies

Ingredients

• Ground beef or turkey: provides protein and flavor Choose fresh bright red meat with no discoloration
• Onion: delivers sweetness and depth Yellow onions are best for a mellow finish
• Green and orange bell peppers: add color crunch and extra vitamins Pick peppers with glossy skin and firm feel
• Garlic: brings bold flavor Use fresh cloves for the fullest taste
• Jalapeño: optional for gentle heat Select vibrant green peppers
• Diced tomatoes: add acidity and texture Look for cans labeled no salt added and good color
• Pumpkin purée: brings creaminess and gentle sweetness Always use plain pumpkin not pie filling for pure pumpkin flavor
• Black beans and kidney beans: offer hearty texture and plant based protein Rinse well to cut down salt
• Beef or vegetable broth: ties everything together Choose a low sodium version for better control over saltiness
• Chili powder smoked paprika cumin cinnamon salt black pepper cayenne: round out the spice mix Always buy fresh spices and taste test when possible for fullest flavor
• Toppings: optional for serving Fresh shredded cheddar sour cream sliced green onions chopped cilantro and Halloween themed tortilla chips decorate the bowl and add crunch and creaminess

Instructions

Prepare and Brown the Meat:

Set your Instant Pot to the Sauté function Place ground beef or turkey into the pot Cook gently breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon until every bit is browned and crumbly This usually takes about five minutes Drain any extra fat so your chili is not greasy

Add and Sauté Vegetables:

Add diced onion green and orange bell peppers and jalapeño to the browned meat Stir well and cook for three to four minutes until peppers are shiny and the onion is soft and translucent This unlocks their flavors and builds your chili base

Fragrance Boost with Garlic:

Add minced garlic cooking for just one minute Keep an eye on the garlic It should be sweetly fragrant but not burn

Spice Mix In:

Sprinkle in chili powder smoked paprika cumin cinnamon salt black pepper and cayenne Carefully stir so every bit of meat and veggies is coated Sauté for another minute to release the flavor oils from the spices

Combine and Add Remaining Ingredients:

Pour in diced tomatoes with their juice pumpkin purée black beans kidney beans and broth Mix thoroughly so the pumpkin is well distributed throughout the pot and the beans are evenly spread

Pressure Cook:

Secure the Instant Pot lid Set the valve to sealing Select Manual or Pressure Cook on High for twelve minutes This cooks all the flavors together quickly and makes the chili tender

Release Pressure:

After cooking let the pressure drop naturally for ten minutes then quick release any remaining steam Carefully open the lid and stir the chili

Final Seasoning:

Taste the chili and adjust salt or spiciness with extra black pepper or cayenne if needed Your chili should be thick and hearty

Serve:

Ladle hot chili into bowls Top with cheddar sour cream green onions cilantro and your favorite Halloween chips Serve right away while steamy

Save to Pinterest

I am always amazed at how the pumpkin melts into the chili not only for color but the silkiest texture I remember the first time my husband came home hungry after trick or treating with the kids and went back for seconds with big smiles around the table

Storage Tips

Let chili cool fully before storing Transfer leftovers to airtight containers Refrigerate for up to four days or freeze for three months Always label containers with date For best texture thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken work well in place of beef Use extra beans or diced sweet potato for a vegetarian twist If pumpkin is unavailable mix in mashed butternut squash For broth vegetable or mushroom broth is a great swap for beef

Serving Suggestions

Serve chili in hollowed small pumpkin bowls for a festive table Top with cheese sour cream and fresh herbs For Halloween parties set out a toppings bar so each person can customize their bowl Tortilla chips make perfect dippers

Cultural and Historical Notes

Chili is a classic American comfort dish with many regional twists The pumpkin addition brings in a seasonal festive spin perfect for autumn and Halloween Pumpkin and beans were staples of Native American cuisine and add richness and nutrition to modern chili

Seasonal Adaptations

Use butternut squash or sweet potato instead of pumpkin for a winter variation Try red bell pepper or purple potatoes for more spooky color In spring or summer add zucchini or corn

Save to Pinterest

This chili will be the highlight of your Halloween table and a delicious reason for everyone to gather Enjoy full bowls all season long

Common Recipe Questions

→ What makes this chili perfect for Halloween?

The addition of pumpkin purée and colorful bell peppers provides fall flavors and festive color, making it perfect for Halloween celebrations.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Omit the ground beef and add extra beans or diced sweet potato for a hearty vegetarian option.

→ How spicy is the chili?

The spice level is customizable. Adjust jalapeño and cayenne pepper to make it mild or spicy to your preference.

→ What Instant Pot size is needed?

A 6-quart or larger Instant Pot works best, providing ample space for all the ingredients to cook evenly.

→ How can I serve this for a party?

Serve in mini pumpkin bowls or with Halloween-shaped tortilla chips for a festive and playful presentation.

→ Does this chili freeze well?

Absolutely—store leftovers in airtight containers and freeze for up to three months for easy future meals.