Smoky Sausage Chili
A hearty, smoky sausage chili with bold flavors, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights, combining ground beef, smoked sausage, beans, and spicy seasonings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef with chopped onion in a saucepan; drain excess fat.
- Sprinkle chili powder and cumin over the meat; cook and stir for 1 minute.
- Add kidney beans, picante sauce, vegetable juice cocktail, tomato sauce, and sliced smoked sausage; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
- Stir the chili before serving.
- Ladle into bowls, top as desired, and serve with additional picante sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using a combination of smoked sausage and chorizo. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein. Adjust the spice level by adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper. Serve with cornbread for a delightful pairing, or try it alongside Taco Corn Bread for a full meal experience.
Serving Suggestions
Ladle the smoky sausage chili into bowls and top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro as desired. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside cornbread or over rice. This chili also pairs well with tortilla chips or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the chili in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smoky Sausage Chili contains roughly 704 calories, with 36g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (104% of the Daily Value), and protein (71% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 527mg per serving (23% 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 a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this chili in a slow cooker, brown the beef and onion first, then transfer to the slow cooker. Add all other ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
How can I make this chili less spicy?
To reduce the spiciness, use mild picante sauce and omit any additional peppers. You can also add a bit of sugar or honey to balance the heat. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream to help mellow the spice.
What can I use instead of kidney beans?
If you don't have kidney beans on hand, black beans or pinto beans work well as substitutes. Both options will complement the smoky flavors in the chili while adding protein and fiber.
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).