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Easy Vegetarian Butternut Squash Chili

Close-up of a white bowl filled with chunky, orange butternut squash chili mixed with dark red beans.

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Make this hearty, one-pot vegetarian chili featuring sweet butternut squash and beans. It is a simple, comforting meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or cozy fall evening.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 4 cups cubed butternut squash (about 1 medium squash)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Add the cubed butternut squash, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients.
  5. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the butternut squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
  6. Stir in the ground cinnamon, if using. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
  7. Serve hot. This chili pairs well with toppings like avocado, cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, roast the cubed butternut squash at 400°F for 15 minutes before adding it to the chili.
  • If you prefer a thicker chili, remove about 1 cup of the chili mixture, mash the squash slightly with a fork, and return it to the pot.
  • This recipe is a great base for meal planning; it freezes well for future quick dinners.

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