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Crockpot Turkey and Pumpkin Stew

This turkey and pumpkin stew is made using a slow cooker, combining tender shredded turkey, smooth pumpkin purée, and aromatic seasonings. The dish develops a rich, velvety texture with tender vegetables and a fragrant broth that has a cozy, rustic appearance. Cooked until everything melds together, it results in a hearty, comforting meal perfect for fall evenings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 6 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound cooked turkey breast or thighs, shredded preferably leftover or pre-cooked
  • 1 cup pumpkin purée canned or homemade
  • 1 cup chopped carrots for sweetness and texture
  • 1 cup diced celery adds crunch and flavor
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth preferably low sodium
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon adds warmth
  • 1 teaspoon dried sage or thyme if preferred
  • Salt and pepper to taste seasoning adjust at end
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Knives

Method
 

  1. Chop the onion, carrots, and celery into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing until the vegetables are just starting to soften and the onion is fragrant—about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until aromatic. Transfer the sautéed vegetables and garlic to the slow cooker.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the pumpkin purée, shredded turkey, cinnamon, sage, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to combine well.
  5. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6 hours, until the vegetables are tender, and the flavors meld into a rich, fragrant broth.
  6. Taste the stew and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. If the broth is too thin, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water), then simmer uncovered for 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
  7. Once ready, gently stir the stew to re-incorporate the ingredients and serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of herbs if desired.

Notes

For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the stew before serving. Leftovers reheat beautifully and taste even better the next day. Adjust spice levels to your preference for warmth and flavor.