Craving a warm, comforting, and incredibly flavorful dinner that's ready in under an hour? Look no further! This chili with Italian sausage recipe is a delicious twist on a classic, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering. It's packed with hearty Italian sausage, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, smoky tomato base that will leave you wanting more. This recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on taste, making it a staple in our healthy meals rotation. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your choice!), casings removed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, avocado
Instructions:
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Brown the sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease. This step builds a fantastic flavor base for your chili.
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Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the chili: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour for a deeper flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, fresh cilantro, or creamy avocado.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chili:
- Don't rush the simmering: Allowing the chili to simmer for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to develop fully, resulting in a richer, more complex taste.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder chili, omit the cayenne pepper. For extra heat, add more cayenne or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Make it your own: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as corn, carrots, or zucchini. You can also experiment with different types of beans.
- Slow cooker option: This chili is also perfect for a slow cooker! Brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Chili: Substitute the Italian sausage with 1 cup of crumbled vegetarian sausage or 1 cup of cooked lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Beef Chili: Add 1 lb of ground beef along with the Italian sausage for a richer, meatier chili.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This chili with Italian sausage recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser – a perfect example of delicious dishes that are both quick and easy to prepare. It's the perfect addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Enjoy!