Spicy Pumpkin Chili

I know what you are thinking: That sounds gross! My friends thought it sounded gross too, ha! I promise it is so delicious! Pumpkin is packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Add that in with the tomatoes and lean ground beef and you have the perfect, healthy fall meal! If you're feeling adventurous give it a try! If you don't want this spicy, replace the Rotel with regular diced tomatoes or fresh!

Ingredients
1 lb lean ground meat (turkey, beef or chicken)
32 oz can crushed tomatoes
1 14 oz can pure pumpkin
1 can RoTel
1 can diced tomatoes with green peppers and onions (like Del Monte)
1/2 green bell pepper, diced
1 onion, diced
1 can chicken broth

1 tablespoon each garlic powder, cumin, paprika and chili powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon hot sauce (I use Frank's)

In a large dutch oven, saute onion and bell pepper over medium heat 7-10 minutes or until soft. Add ground meat and cook until completely browned. Add spices and hot sauce, stir to combine. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken stock and pumpkin. If you like your chili chunky, add Rotel and Diced tomatoes as is, if not place in a blender or food processor until smooth and then add to mixture. Simmer at least 30 minutes. Serve hot with cheese, sour cream, cornbread or fritos. Enjoy!