chili with sausage and ground beef recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
chili with sausage and ground beef recipe
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The Best chili with sausage and ground beef recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite chili with sausage and ground beef recipe. This hearty, comforting dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Whether we’re gathering for a family dinner or just need a warm, satisfying meal after a long day, this chili never fails to hit the spot. And the best part?

It’s incredibly easy to make and customize to your taste. The combination of juicy sausage, rich ground beef, and deep, velvety tomato sauce is absolute perfection.

Plus, this recipe is packed with nutrients and protein to keep you going all day long. I’ve served it at potlucks, family gatherings, and even as a quick lunch for the kids.

It’s truly a versatile dish that suits any occasion. And let me tell you, it’s been well-loved by everyone who’s ever tried it – from my picky eaters to my most discerning dinner guests.

I think what really sets this recipe apart is the way the flavors meld together – it’s like a big hug in a bowl. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this chili comes together and how much everyone will enjoy devouring it.

Hearty Chili with Sausage and Ground Beef

Hearty Chili with Sausage and Ground Beef

4.8 from 537 votes

This chili combines spicy sausage and lean ground beef for a rich, meaty flavor. It simmers with beans, tomatoes, and a blend of chili spices for a comforting meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chili

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound hot Italian sausage, casings removed
1 pound ground beef (80/20)
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
Salt and black pepper to taste

For Serving

Shredded cheddar cheese
Sour cream
Chopped fresh cilantro
Sliced green onions

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2Add the sausage and ground beef, breaking them into small pieces with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned, about 6 to 8 minutes.
3Remove the meat with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of drippings in the pot.
4Reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion to the pot.
5Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes.
6Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
7Return the browned meat to the pot and add the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, beef broth, and tomato paste.
8Stir everything together until well combined, then bring the chili to a boil over high heat.
9Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld.
10Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
11Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped cilantro, and sliced green onions as desired.
12Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread on the side.

🔧Equipment

Large Dutch oven or heavy pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Can opener

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 85mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 32g🥦Dietary Fiber: 8g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a milder chili, use sweet Italian sausage instead of hot and omit the cayenne pepper. You can also add diced bell peppers or corn for extra texture. Leftovers taste even better the next day and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Watch Video Of How Hearty Chili with Sausage and Ground Beef Works

This chili with sausage and ground beef is always a good idea – whether you’re planning an intimate dinner party or hosting a large family gathering.

Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare and customize, but it’s also packed with nutrients and protein to keep everyone satisfied all day long.

To make this recipe even more convenient, consider making large batches ahead of time and freezing individual portions for future meals.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Chili with Sausage and Ground Beef

Q: What type of sausage should I use in this recipe?

A: For this chili, I recommend using a sweet Italian sausage or Chorizo for added depth of flavor. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can also use regular pork sausage or even breakfast sausage.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

A: Absolutely! Simply brown the sausage and ground beef in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the flavors have melded together.

Q: How can I adjust the spice level to suit my family’s taste?

A: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper altogether. For an extra kick of heat, add more cayenne pepper or introduce diced jalapeños to the mix.

Q: Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

A: While canned beans are convenient, they lack the texture and flavor that cooked dried beans provide. If you choose to use canned beans, be sure to rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the chili.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians or vegans?

A: This recipe contains both sausage and ground beef, making it unsuitable for vegetarian or vegan diets. However, you can easily substitute these ingredients with plant-based alternatives like textured vegetable protein or tempeh for a meatless version.

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