Jenny'S Company Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili packed with smoky sausage, ground beef, and beans, perfect for comfort food lovers and suitable for gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, hot smoked sausage slices, and chopped onions in a Dutch oven.
- Cook until browned.
- Drain pinto beans; reserve the liquid.
- Add the reserved liquid to the mixture.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes, catsup, chili powder, brown sugar, brown mustard, salt, and red pepper, then simmer for 45 minutes.
- Stir in pinto beans and cook for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a milder version, use sweet sausage instead of hot smoked sausage. You can also substitute kidney beans for pinto beans if desired. For quicker preparation, use pre-chopped onions or even frozen diced onions. This recipe can also be adapted to use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty chili with cornbread or over rice for a filling meal. A dollop of sour cream and shredded cheese on top enhances the flavors beautifully. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or tortilla chips for added texture. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside Barbecued Ground Beef for a mixed platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jenny'S Company Chili contains roughly 599 calories, with 6g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (318% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (70% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1322mg per serving (57% 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 in advance?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. You can make it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef and sausage with a mix of beans such as black beans and kidney beans, along with chopped vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. You can also use plant-based sausage for added flavor.
What can I do if the chili is too thick?
If your chili turns out too thick, simply add a bit of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir it well and let it simmer for a few more minutes to blend the 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).