Spiced Turkey Chili with Spaghetti Squash: Cozy Night Delight

Why Make This Recipe

Spiced Turkey Chili with Spaghetti Squash is a fantastic meal that warms you up on chilly nights. It’s hearty, healthy, and packed with flavors that will make your taste buds dance. Using spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta adds a unique twist and boosts the nutritional value. This dish is not only filling but also relatively easy to make, making it perfect for a cozy night in.

How to Make Spiced Turkey Chili with Spaghetti Squash

Ingredients

• 1 lb Ground Turkey (can substitute with ground chicken or lean beef)
• 2 cans Canned Beans (such as black or kidney beans)
• 1 medium Onion (diced finely)
• 3 cloves Garlic (fresh, minced)
• 2 medium Bell Peppers (any color)
• 1 can Tomatoes (diced/crushed) (canned for convenience)
• 1 tsp Cinnamon (key ingredient for warmth)
• 1 tsp Allspice (for aromatic depth)
• 2 tbsp Cocoa Powder (unsweetened)
• 2 cups Broth (chicken/vegetable) (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 medium Spaghetti Squash (microwave before cutting for easy preparation)

Directions

1. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place it cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for about 30-40 minutes until tender.
3. In a large pot or dutch oven, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent.
4. Stir in the minced garlic, and cook for another minute.
5. Add the ground turkey to the pot. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through.
6. Chop the bell peppers and add them to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes until they start to soften.
7. Mix in the canned beans, diced tomatoes, cinnamon, allspice, cocoa powder, and broth. Stir everything together.
8. Let the chili simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

How to Serve Spiced Turkey Chili

When the spaghetti squash is done, use a fork to scrape the inside into spaghetti-like strands. Serve the spiced turkey chili on top of the spaghetti squash. You can add toppings like fresh cilantro, avocado, or a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.

How to Store Spiced Turkey Chili

If you have leftovers, you can store the chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to let it cool before freezing.

Tips to Make Spiced Turkey Chili

• Adjust the spices according to your taste. If you like it spicier, consider adding some chili powder or jalapeños.
• If you don’t have ground turkey, feel free to use chicken or lean beef instead.
• To save time, you can prepare the spaghetti squash ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you are ready to make the chili.

Variation

You can easily modify this recipe by adding other vegetables like corn or zucchini. If you prefer a vegetarian version, just substitute the ground turkey with more beans or lentils.

FAQs

Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just dice them up and add them to the chili. You may need to adjust the cooking time.

Q: Can I skip the roasting of spaghetti squash?
A: While roasting gives the squash a nice flavor, you can steam it instead to save time.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure to use gluten-free broth and ingredients.

Spiced Turkey Chili with Spaghetti Squash

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: jurgentukur
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Gluten-Free

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

A hearty and healthy turkey chili served on roasted spaghetti squash, perfect for chilly nights.

---

Ingredients

• 1 lb Ground Turkey (can substitute with ground chicken or lean beef)
• 2 cans Canned Beans (such as black or kidney beans)
• 1 medium Onion (diced finely)
• 3 cloves Garlic (fresh, minced)
• 2 medium Bell Peppers (any color)
• 1 can Tomatoes (diced/crushed)
• 1 tsp Cinnamon
• 1 tsp Allspice
• 2 tbsp Cocoa Powder (unsweetened)
• 2 cups Broth (chicken/vegetable, low-sodium preferred)
• 1 medium Spaghetti Squash (microwave before cutting for easy preparation)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place it cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for about 30-40 minutes until tender.
3. In a large pot or dutch oven, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Add the ground turkey to the pot. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through.
6. Chop the bell peppers and add them to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes until they start to soften.
7. Mix in the canned beans, diced tomatoes, cinnamon, allspice, cocoa powder, and broth. Stir everything together.
8. Let the chili simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
9. Once the spaghetti squash is done, use a fork to scrape the inside into spaghetti-like strands. Serve the spiced turkey chili on top of the spaghetti squash.

Notes

Adjust the spices according to your taste. Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, avocado, lime.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American