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Turkey Apple Chili: A Cozy Fall Favorite

As the leaves begin to turn golden and the air feels crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of chili to wrap your hands around and cozy up with on a chilly evening. Turkey Apple Chili has become a cherished dish in my home, bursting with flavors that remind me of fall harvests and family gatherings around the dinner table. The inclusion of hearty sweet potatoes, vibrant carrots, and chunks of fresh apple brings a sweet yet savory twist that elevates this classic comfort food into something truly special. This recipe is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a gathering with loved ones. Trust me, this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nourishing and Hearty: Packed with lean protein and seasonal veggies, this dish is perfect for keeping you full and satisfied.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the delightful combination of flavors in every spoonful!
Quick and Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip this up in about an hour.
Versatile: Add your favorite beans or toppings to customize it to your family’s taste.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big pot over the weekend and enjoy leftovers all week long.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Turkey Apple Chili

1 Tbs olive oil
2 cups sliced carrots (this was 2 large carrots for me)
2 cups sliced sweet potatoes (halved and quartered; this was 2 smaller sweet potatoes for me)
2 cups diced apple (this was from 2 apples for me)
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp salt (divided)
1/2 tsp pepper
1 1/2 tsp rubbed sage (divided)
1/2 tsp cinnamon
A sprinkle of nutmeg
2 lbs ground lean turkey
3 Tbs tomato paste
2 tsp chili powder
3 cups crushed tomatoes
2 cups strained tomatoes (or marinara sauce)
1-2 cans kidney beans (optional)

How to Make Turkey Apple Chili

Put 1 tablespoon of olive oil into a large pot and turn the stove up to medium heat.
Add the diced apples, sliced sweet potatoes, and sliced carrots to the pan. Top with 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon of rubbed sage, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a sprinkle of nutmeg. Mix with a spatula and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the ground turkey meat, breaking it up into smaller pieces, and cook for 5-7 minutes until the meat is no longer pink.
Next, add 3 tablespoons of tomato paste, 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon rubbed sage, and 1 teaspoon salt to the mixture. Mix until the tomato paste is evenly distributed.
Then, add the crushed tomatoes and strained tomatoes to the pot, and stir until combined.
Reduce the heat to low-medium and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes. If you are adding kidney beans, mix them in at the end.

Delicious Variations to Try

Zesty Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
Creamy Comfort: Stir in a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream before serving for a rich finish.
Fresh Toppings: Top each bowl with diced avocados, fresh cilantro, or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese for added flavor and nutrition.
Seasonal Switch-Up: Try this recipe with butternut squash or pumpkin in place of sweet potatoes for a cozy autumn-inspired variation.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

Make-Ahead Advice: This chili is perfect for making ahead of time! Just store it in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze it for longer storage. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stovetop until warmed through.
Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have ground turkey, feel free to substitute with lean ground beef or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.
Slicing Tricks: For perfectly even slices of sweet potato and apples, use a mandoline or sharp knife for uniform cooking.
Storage Suggestions: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to three months.

What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 280
Carbohydrates: 40g
Sugars: 8g
Fat: 9g
Protein: 24g
Sodium: 680mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead? Yes! This chili is great for make-ahead meals. Store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later enjoyment.
Can I use different ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or beans.
How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can also freeze for later.
How long does it last? This chili will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator, or you can freeze it for up to three months.

A Cozy Closing Note

Turkey Apple Chili is the perfect dish to warm you up on chilly nights, filled with tender veggies and hearty turkey, all complemented by a hint of apple sweetness. It’s the kind of recipe that invites laughter-filled conversations and stories shared over dinner. Save this Turkey Apple Chili to your Pinterest board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat! Warm wishes and happy cooking!