Company Chili
A hearty, smoky chili featuring ground beef, sausage, and beans, perfect for comforting gatherings and satisfying spicy cravings with rich flavors and bold seasonings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, sausage, and chopped onion in a heavy pan.
- Cook until beef is browned, stirring to crumble meat. Drain off fat.
- Drain pinto beans, reserving liquid.
- Add reserved liquid to meat mixture, then stir in remaining ingredients except beans.
- Add about 1/2 cup water if needed.
- Cover and simmer for 35 to 40 minutes.
- Add beans and cook for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of hot and mild smoked sausage. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with textured vegetable protein or lentils. Adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper for heat. You can also use canned chili beans for added convenience, which will enhance the flavor profile of this hearty chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Company Chili with a side of cornbread or over rice for a filling meal. It pairs beautifully with Cheesy Mac Chili for a comforting spread or can be topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and fresh cilantro for added flavor. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This chili also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Company Chili contains roughly 363 calories, with 3g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1715mg per serving (75% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making the chili a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat it when you're ready to serve. Many people find that chili tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or gatherings.
How can I make this chili less spicy?
If you're concerned about the heat, opt for mild smoked sausage instead of hot. You can also reduce the amount of chili powder and skip any additional spicy ingredients like jalapeños. Adding a dollop of sour cream or some cheese on top before serving can help cool down the spice levels as well.
What can I serve with Company Chili?
This chili is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. Cornbread is a classic choice, but you could also serve it with tortilla chips or over baked potatoes. For a complete meal, consider adding a fresh salad or roasted vegetables to your plate for a delightful balance of flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).