If you’re craving a chili that bursts with flavor and warmth, then you’ve just struck gold with this Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe. This dish combines the savory goodness of sweet Italian sausage with hearty beans, smoky bacon, and a perfect blend of spices that make every spoonful unbeatable. It’s the kind of chili that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day but also brings exciting layers of taste that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe lies in its simplicity and the quality of ingredients that come together to create a harmonious, richly flavored dish. Each element adds a unique texture, color, or depth, making the chili hearty and satisfying without any fuss.
- Bacon (8 slices, diced): Adds a smoky, crispy element that enriches the chili’s flavor base with its rendered fat.
- Ground beef (1 lb): Provides a robust, meaty foundation for the chili’s hearty texture.
- Sweet Italian sausage (1 lb, casings removed): Brings a slightly sweet, aromatic note that distinguishes this chili from classic versions.
- White onion (1, diced): Adds a sweet, earthy undertone and soft texture when cooked down.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the chili with a warm, fragrant aroma that builds flavor complexity.
- Kidney beans (1 32 oz can, drained and rinsed): Offers a creamy bite and vibrant red color, boosting heartiness.
- White beans (1 32 oz can, drained and rinsed): Complements the kidney beans with a smooth texture and mellow creaminess.
- Crushed tomatoes (1 28 oz can, undrained): Provides a rich, slightly tangy tomato base that binds the chili together.
- Ketchup (1 cup): Contributes sweetness and a subtle tang that balances savory and spicy.
- Brown sugar (½ cup): Enhances the natural sweetness, balancing the seasoning and chili powder.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds umami depth and a touch of complexity.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Brings a sharp, tangy note that brightens the chili’s flavor profile.
- Water (1 cup): Helps achieve the perfect consistency for a thick yet spoonable chili.
- Chili powder (3 tablespoons): Gives warmth and earthiness that defines the chili’s spicy backbone.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle smokiness that complements the bacon perfectly.
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Provides an earthy, nutty undertone that blends seamlessly with the chili powder.
- Salt (2 teaspoons): Enhances all the other flavors, making each ingredient shine.
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of heat and subtle bite.
- Optional toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, or Greek yogurt for creamy, cooling contrasts.
How to Make Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe
Step 1: Crisp the Bacon and Brown the Meat
Start by cooking the diced bacon in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until it becomes irresistibly crispy. This step creates a base rich in smoky flavor and leaves behind rendered bacon fat, which is perfect for sautéing the onion. Remove the bacon and set it aside, then drain most of the bacon grease from the pot to avoid greasiness while still keeping enough to cook the onions. Toss in the diced white onion and cook until it softens and becomes translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. Next, add the ground beef and sweet Italian sausage, breaking the meat apart as it browns evenly. Finally, stir in the minced garlic for that wonderful aromatic punch.
Step 2: Combine the Beans, Tomatoes, and Seasonings
With your meat cooked and the kitchen smelling amazing, it’s time to add the star ingredients. Pour in the kidney beans and white beans, both drained and rinsed for a cleaner taste and texture. Add the crushed tomatoes with all their luscious juice, followed by ketchup and brown sugar to balance sweetness and tang. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard, which elevate the complexity of flavors beautifully. Pour in a cup of water to adjust the chili’s thickness. Now, layer in the spices: chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper, then sprinkle back in those crispy bacon crumbles. Stir everything together thoroughly so every spoonful bursts with flavor.
Step 3: Let the Chili Simmer and Meld
Bring your pot to a gentle simmer, allowing all those flavors to marry over medium-low heat. Let it cook uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and encourage even cooking. This slow simmer is where the chili thickens up beautifully while the sausage and spices release their full potential. Keep an eye on consistency and add more water if it gets too thick for your liking – you want a chili that’s hearty but still easy to spoon.
Step 4: Serve Hot with Perfect Accompaniments
Once your Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe is done, it’s time to plate it up and enjoy. Ladle the chili into bowls when the aroma is irresistible, and don’t be shy about adding your favorite toppings or sides to elevate it even further. This chili shines best when it’s accompanied by fresh, bright, and creamy contrasts that balance its rich, savory notes.
How to Serve Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe
Garnishes
Toppings take this chili from fantastic to unforgettable. A generous handful of shredded cheese melts into the hot chili, creating gooey, luscious bites. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a refreshing creaminess that cuts through the chili’s robust flavors, offering a delightful contrast. You can also sprinkle fresh chopped green onions or cilantro for pops of color and brightness that brighten each mouthful.
Side Dishes
This chili pairs wonderfully with simple yet complementary sides. Crusty bread or warm cornbread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the sauce. A crisp green salad balances the richness, while tortilla chips provide crunchy texture. For a heartier meal, try serving it alongside steamed rice or baked potatoes to keep everyone fully satisfied.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe in hollowed-out bread bowls for a rustic, cozy vibe. You can also transform it into a chili bar by offering various toppings—avocado slices, jalapeño peppers, diced tomatoes—so guests can customize their bowls. Another playful idea is to spoon it over baked fries or nachos for a shareable crowd-pleaser that turns dinner time into a celebration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This chili keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors will continue to deepen overnight, so leftovers often taste even better than the first day. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave until steaming hot.
Freezing
If you want to save some for another day, Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty ziplock bags, leaving some room for expansion. It can be stored frozen for up to three months, making it an excellent option for quick, comforting meals on busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the chili in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm it on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You may need to add a splash of water to loosen it up. Avoid microwaving frozen chili directly to maintain texture, but if you’re in a rush, heat gently in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While sweet Italian sausage is the star here for its signature flavor, you can swap in spicy Italian sausage for a kick or even chorizo for a smoky twist. Just keep in mind the seasoning balance might shift slightly, so you might want to adjust the chili powder and smoked paprika accordingly.
Is it necessary to use both kidney beans and white beans?
Using both adds a wonderful contrast in textures and colors that make the chili more interesting to eat. Kidney beans hold their shape nicely and add heartiness, while white beans create creaminess. If you only have one kind, the chili will still be delicious, but mixing beans really elevates the experience.
Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes! After browning the meat and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Be sure to add the spices and liquids before starting. Just remember to stir well before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
How spicy is this Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe?
Thanks to the sweet Italian sausage and balanced spices, this chili leans toward mild to medium heat. The chili powder and smoked paprika add warmth without overwhelming heat, making it approachable for almost everyone. You can always add fresh jalapeños or cayenne pepper if you want more spice.
What’s the best way to thicken my chili if it’s too watery?
If your chili is thinner than you like, let it simmer uncovered a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot and stir them in—that natural starch helps thicken it up beautifully without altering flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe is truly a gem worth making again and again. It has the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors wrapped in a comforting, hearty dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting friends, or meal prepping for the week, this chili will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. So grab those ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to enjoy a bowl full of happiness.
Print
Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings (1 cup each)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sweet Italian Sausage Chili combines savory bacon, flavorful sweet Italian sausage, and hearty beans simmered in a rich tomato base with a perfect balance of spices. It’s a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish ideal for chilly days, served with optional shredded cheese and sour cream for added creaminess.
Ingredients
Meat and Bacon
- 8 slices bacon, diced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 white onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Beans and Tomatoes
- 1 (32 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (32 oz) can white beans (cannellini or Great Northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes, undrained
Liquids and Condiments
- 1 cup ketchup
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup water
Spices
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon and Aromatics: In a large Dutch oven, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels. Drain most of the bacon grease from the pot, leaving a little for flavor. Add the diced white onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef and sweet Italian sausage (with casings removed) to the pot with the onions and garlic. Cook over medium-high heat until the meat is browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Ensure the meat is cooked evenly, then drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Beans, Tomatoes, and Seasonings: Stir in the drained kidney beans, white beans, crushed tomatoes (with liquid), ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and water. Mix well to combine. Sprinkle in chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Add the cooked bacon crumbles back into the pot. Stir everything together evenly for full flavor integration.
- Simmer the Chili: Bring the chili mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and let cook uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If the chili becomes too thick, add additional water in small increments to reach desired consistency.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with optional shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy and tangy finish. Enjoy hot for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper during cooking.
- Using a Dutch oven helps distribute heat evenly and is ideal for simmering the chili.
- This chili reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- To make the dish lower in fat, use turkey sausage and lean ground beef or substitute the bacon with turkey bacon.
- Adjust salt and spices according to personal taste preferences.
