Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe
If you’re craving a bowl of warmth that brings together the comforting flavors of Italian sausage with the heartiness of classic chili, this Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. Simmered to perfection, every spoonful offers just the right kick of spice, a touch of sweetness, and that satisfying meaty bite. It’s a dish that feels like a cozy hug—rich, filling, and packed with color from bell peppers and beans. Whether you serve it for a family game night or a casual gathering, this chili never fails to impress!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe is just how straightforward the ingredients are. Each element brings something special: smokiness, heat, sweetness, or a creamy texture. Gather these pantry staples and fresh picks, and you’ll be on your way to a truly memorable chili.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the meat beautifully to start things off right.
- Sweet Italian sausage (casings removed): The star of the show, delivering a signature burst of sweet and savory Italian flavors.
- Ground beef: Boosts the chili’s heartiness and creates that classic, satisfying chili base.
- Large onion, chopped: Lends a subtle sweetness and savory backbone once sautéed.
- Green bell pepper, chopped: Brings freshness and a pleasant crunch that brightens every bite.
- Red bell pepper, chopped: Adds a pop of color and a slightly sweeter note than the green pepper.
- Garlic, minced: Three cloves infuse the chili with deep, aromatic flavor.
- Crushed tomatoes (28 oz can): The base that ties everything together, adding body and tang.
- Kidney beans (15 oz can, drained and rinsed): Classic chili beans with a creamy bite that soak up all the flavors.
- Black beans (15 oz can, drained and rinsed): Earthy and satisfying, they add even more texture and nutrition.
- Tomato paste (6 oz can): Intensifies the tomato flavor for a richer, thicker chili.
- Beef broth: Gives the chili a savory depth and makes it irresistibly saucy.
- Chili powder: Essential for that smoky, gently spicy chili personality.
- Ground cumin: Adds warm, earthy notes that complement the sausage perfectly.
- Smoked paprika: For a subtle smokiness that sets this chili apart.
- Dried oregano: A nod to Italian herbs, weaving in a fragrant, herby undertone.
- Salt and black pepper: Season to taste and bring all the flavors into balance.
- Optional toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for that final flourish.
How to Make Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meats
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sweet Italian sausage (with the casings removed) and ground beef. Use a sturdy wooden spoon to break up the meat as it browns, making sure you get those flavorful crispy bits. Once the meat is fully cooked, drain off any excess fat so your chili stays rich but not greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Toss in your chopped onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and minced garlic right into the pot with the browned meat. Sauté everything together for five to seven minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the kitchen starts to smell absolutely incredible. This step is where the foundation of flavor is built!
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Beans
Now it’s time to layer in the heart of your Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, both types of beans, tomato paste, and beef broth. Give it a good stir to combine all those vibrant ingredients. Each addition brings color and substance, making the chili rich and robust.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, plus a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Stir well, then bring the pot to a boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let your chili simmer uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes. This is where the magic happens—those flavors meld together, the sauce thickens, and you’re left with a chili that’s impossible to resist.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle your Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe into bowls and top with your favorite toppings—think shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and maybe a sprinkling of green onions. Serve it piping hot and get ready to watch it disappear faster than you made it!
How to Serve Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes are the finishing touch that make each bowl of chili feel personal and extra special. Classic choices like shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack, a spoonful of tangy sour cream, and a handful of chopped green onions add color, creaminess, and a fresh bite. If you like a little heat, sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce are always welcome at the table!
Side Dishes
Nothing pairs better with this hearty Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe than a warm, crusty slice of bread for dunking. Cornbread, garlic knots, or even a bed of fluffy rice are all fantastic options to soak up every last drop. For a lighter touch, serve with a crisp green salad on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Try ladling your chili into bread bowls for a fun, edible serving vessel that keeps things cozy and fuss-free. You can also serve chili over baked potatoes or crispy tortilla chips for a Tex-Mex twist. For a party, set up a chili bar with various toppings and let everyone customize their bowl—everyone loves a little DIY action!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is a big “if” with this Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe), simply let the chili cool to room temperature, then transfer it to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days, and honestly, the flavors just get better as they mingle overnight.
Freezing
This chili is a meal-prepper’s dream! Portion cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving a little space for expansion. It will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready for a super easy dinner.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chili gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal—just cover the bowl to avoid splatters and stir halfway through. Add a splash of broth if it’s thickened up too much, and you’re good to go!
FAQs
Can I use hot Italian sausage instead of sweet?
Absolutely! Hot Italian sausage brings a spicy kick that’s fantastic if you love a little more heat. You can even do a mix of sweet and hot for an extra layer of flavor in your Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe.
What beans can I substitute if I don’t have kidney or black beans?
Feel free to swap in pinto beans, cannellini beans, or even chickpeas. The chili will still be hearty and delicious, so use whatever you have on hand.
Is this chili gluten-free?
Yes! The Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your sausage and broth are certified gluten-free. Always double-check ingredient labels if you’re cooking for someone with celiac or gluten sensitivity.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Definitely. Brown the sausage and beef first, then add everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for about 3 to 4 hours—just until everything is thick and flavorful.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
Omit the sausage and beef, and boost the beans or add meatless crumbles. Consider sautéing diced mushrooms for a meaty texture, and use vegetable broth instead of beef. You’ll still get a hearty, flavor-packed bowl!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that brings people together and delivers big, bold flavor with minimal fuss, this Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe is truly a must-try. It’s a heartwarming classic with a twist, and I can’t wait for you to taste just how special it is. Grab your favorite toppings, gather around the table, and let this chili work its cozy magic!
Print
Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Sweet Italian Sausage Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring a blend of sweet Italian sausage and ground beef simmered with bell peppers, beans, and rich tomatoes. Perfect for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare on the stovetop, it offers a satisfying balance of spice and sweetness complemented by a variety of seasonings and optional toppings like cheese and sour cream.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound sweet Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1/2 pound ground beef
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Canned Goods
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
Liquids
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
Instructions
- Cook the Meat: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sweet Italian sausage and ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Cook until meat is browned and no longer pink. Remove excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, green and red bell peppers, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Beans: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, tomato paste, and beef broth. Mix everything until well combined.
- Season the Chili: Add chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices.
- Simmer: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and the flavors meld together.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot. Add optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions to taste.
Notes
- Substitute hot Italian sausage if you prefer a spicier chili.
- Use turkey sausage for a leaner alternative with lower fat content.
- This chili is excellent for meal prepping and often tastes better the next day as flavors deepen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
