Cozy Butternut Squash Chili: 6 Hearty Variations

Cozy Butternut Squash Chili

Cozy Butternut Squash Chili is a dish that brings warmth and comfort during chilly evenings. Bursting with flavor, it combines the sweet earthiness of butternut squash with zesty spices and hearty black beans. This vibrant chili not only warms you from the inside out but is also easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or snug gatherings with friends and family. With its delightful aroma, Cozy Butternut Squash Chili is the ultimate comfort food, inviting everyone to gather around the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Cozy Butternut Squash Chili

This hearty butternut squash chili is packed with nutrients and flavors that will make you crave a second bowl. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll love this dish:

  • Rich in vitamins from the butternut squash, making it a healthy option.
  • Easy to customize, allowing for delicious butternut squash chili variations.
  • Perfectly spicy, especially for those who enjoy a spicy butternut squash chili recipe.
  • Great as a vegetarian butternut squash chili dish, ideal for plant-based diets.
  • Quick to prepare, making it an easy cozy butternut squash chili option for weeknight dinners.
  • Great for meal prep, as it stores well for later consumption.

Ingredients for Cozy Butternut Squash Chili

Gather these items for a delicious batch of cozy chili:

  • 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and diced
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 medium red onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tbsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lime

How to Make Cozy Butternut Squash Chili Step-by-Step

  1. Step 1: In a large pot over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add onions and garlic; sauté until translucent.
  2. Step 2: Stir in butternut squash and bell peppers; cook for about 5 minutes.
  3. Step 3: Add cumin and chili powder; stir well to coat vegetables.
  4. Step 4: Pour in vegetable broth, scraping any bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Step 5: Mix in black beans; simmer for 20-25 minutes until squash is tender.
Cozy Butternut Squash Chili: 6 Hearty Variations - Cozy Butternut Squash Chili - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cozy Butternut Squash Chili

Keep these in mind for the best results:

  • Using fresh ingredients enhances the flavor.
  • Adjust the spices according to your heat preference for a warm butternut squash chili.
  • This dish can easily be made in a slow cooker for a hands-off approach.

Best Ways to Serve Cozy Butternut Squash Chili

Consider these serving suggestions:

  • Top with avocado slices or cilantro for freshness.
  • Serve alongside warm cornbread or crusty bread for a complete meal.
  • Pair with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.

How to Store and Reheat Cozy Butternut Squash Chili

This chili is perfect for meal prep. To store, let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cozy Butternut Squash Chili

What is butternut squash chili?

Butternut squash chili is a hearty dish that combines butternut squash with spices and beans, creating a comforting and nutritious meal.

Can I make Cozy Butternut Squash Chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cozy Butternut Squash Chili?

A common mistake is overcooking the butternut squash. Keep an eye on it, and test for tenderness to ensure it retains its structure.

Variations of Cozy Butternut Squash Chili You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

  • Add quinoa or bulgur for extra texture and protein.
  • Incorporate different beans like kidney or pinto beans for variety.
  • Try adding sweet potatoes for a twist on sweetness.
Cozy Butternut Squash Chili: 6 Hearty Variations - Cozy Butternut Squash Chili - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe category or try making veggie burgers for a delightful meal. You can also explore roasted carrot soup for a comforting side dish.

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Cozy Butternut Squash Chili

Cozy Butternut Squash Chili: 6 Hearty Variations


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  • Author: Jessica
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

Butternut squash chili is a hearty and nutritious dish that warms you from the inside out. This vibrant chili combines the sweet earthiness of butternut squash with zesty spices and hearty black beans, making it a perfect comfort food for chilly evenings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and diced
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 medium red onion, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 2 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tbsp chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add onions and garlic; sauté until translucent.
  2. Stir in butternut squash and bell peppers; cook for about 5 minutes.
  3. Add cumin and chili powder; stir well to coat vegetables.
  4. Pour in vegetable broth, scraping any bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer.
  5. Mix in black beans; simmer for 20-25 minutes until squash is tender.

Notes

    • Prep Time: 15 minutes
    • Cook Time: 30 minutes
    • Category: Main Dish
    • Method: Stovetop
    • Cuisine: American

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1 cup
    • Calories: 210
    • Sugar: 4g
    • Sodium: 400mg
    • Fat: 5g
    • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
    • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
    • Carbohydrates: 38g
    • Fiber: 10g
    • Protein: 8g
    • Cholesterol: 0mg

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    Hi! I’m Margaret!

    A passionate home cook and food lover who loves nothing more than sharing my favourite recipes with the world.

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