Slow Cooker Turkey Pizza Chili for an Easy Weeknight Dinner Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For an even richer flavor, you can sauté the ground turkey in a pan with a little olive oil until browned before adding it to the slow cooker, although this is optional. This step adds a depth of color and flavor that some cooks prefer. If you choose this route, ensure you drain any excess fat before transferring the turkey to the slow cooker insert.

Consider serving this chili with a variety of toppings to enhance the pizza experience. Grated mozzarella cheese, fresh basil leaves, or even a side of garlic bread can elevate the meal. These additions allow everyone at the table to customize their bowl, making it a fun and interactive dinner option that is perfect for families or casual gatherings.

Variations

• Vegetable Loaded: Add chopped bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the turkey. These vegetables add extra texture and nutrition, complementing the pizza theme perfectly.
• Spicy Pepperoni: Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the mixture for a spicy kick. This variation is ideal for those who prefer their chili with a bit of heat.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheat

Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until the chili is steaming hot throughout.

Allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature for no more than two hours before transferring them to an airtight container. Once cooled, place the container in the refrigerator promptly to maintain freshness and safety.

Properly stored, the chili will remain delicious for up to three or four days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or quick lunches later in the week.

You can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before and keep it in the refrigerator, covered. When you are ready to cook, simply place the insert into the slow cooker base and start the cooking cycle.

If the insert is cold, you may need to add an extra 30 minutes to the total cooking time to allow the ingredients to come up to the proper temperature.

Serving ideas

Serve the Turkey Pizza Chili hot, ladled directly into deep soup bowls. It pairs exceptionally well with crusty bread or toasted garlic bread, which is perfect for soaking up the savory pizza-flavored sauce.

You might also consider a side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to provide a crisp contrast to the hearty chili, creating a balanced and satisfying meal for all.

For a fun twist, top each bowl with a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese and a few extra slices of pepperoni just before serving.

The cheese will melt slightly from the heat of the chili, adding a gooey and delicious layer that mimics the experience of eating a slice of pizza. This simple addition makes the meal feel even more special and comforting.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Slow Cooker Turkey Pizza Chili for an Easy Weeknight Dinner

Prep 10 minCook 4 hTotal 4 h 10 minServes 6

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices
• 15 oz red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 24 oz pizza sauce

Instructions

1. Place the ground turkey into the bottom of the slow cooker, breaking it into smaller crumbles with a spoon or your hands to ensure even cooking. Do not rinse the raw turkey, as this splashes bacteria around the sink; if you must handle it, clean the sink and surfaces thoroughly right after. Add the mini pepperoni slices and the rinsed red kidney beans on top of the turkey.
2. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly over the turkey, pepperoni, and beans. Pour the pizza sauce over the entire mixture, ensuring it covers the ingredients well, but do not stir the contents yet.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. Once finished, stir the chili well to combine the turkey and sauce, ensuring the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Serve hot in individual bowls.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

320

Protein

28.5 g

Carbohydrates

22 g

Fat

12 g

Fiber

5 g

Sugar

6 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.