Cozy Italian Sausage Chili

Get ready for a big, cozy hug in a bowl! This Italian Chili With Sausage is the ultimate Delicious Recipe for those days when you need a hearty, flavorful dinner that leaves everyone asking for seconds. Infused with Italian herbs, packed with tender ground beef and spicy sausage, and studded with sweet peppers and fire-roasted tomatoes, this chili is a vibrant twist on classic comfort food. The best part? It’s as easy to prepare as it is delightful to devour. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or batch-cooking for cozy nights in, this is the Delicious Recipe that will make your kitchen smell like an Italian trattoria and your heart oh-so-happy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This is one of those Delicious Recipes that really lets simple, quality ingredients shine. Each one brings something special—think sweet crunch, savory richness, and splashes of color—all working in harmony to create a comforting, family-style chili you’ll want to serve again and again.

• 1 pinch kosher salt: Just a touch to bring all the flavors together and enhance the savory notes.
• 1 pound lean ground beef: Adds hearty texture and that classic chili base we know and love.
• 1 pound ground hot Italian sausage: Packs in that irresistible spicy, herby depth you’ll crave.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A magic mix of herbs for authentic Italian flair in every bite.
• 1 medium yellow onion: Sweet and aromatic, it gives the chili a savory backbone.
• 2 red bell peppers: Brightens up the pot with sweetness, crunch, and bold red color.
• 4 cloves garlic: For irresistible aroma and classic Italian punch.
• 30 ounces fire roasted diced tomatoes: Smoky and bright, they layer in deep tomato flavor.
• 30 ounces chili beans: Hearty and filling, these are the soul of every great chili recipe.
• 30 ounces tomato sauce: Adds smooth, tangy richness that ties all the ingredients together.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: For a warm, subtle kick and classic chili vibes.
• 1/4 teaspoon cumin: Just a hint lends a delicious earthiness to round out the flavors.
• 1 cup chopped flat-leaf Italian parsley: Fresh, vibrant green for finishing touches and fresh bite.

How to Make Delicious Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by warming up your largest soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a swirl of olive oil, then toss in the diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is soft and fragrant. This first layer is the unmistakable start of every Delicious Recipe worth sharing—the scent will have everyone peeking into the kitchen already!

Step 2: Brown the Meats

Add the lean ground beef and the ground hot Italian sausage. Break them up with a sturdy wooden spoon, mixing them with the onions and garlic. Sprinkle in a pinch of kosher salt. Brown the meats thoroughly for about 8–10 minutes, until there are no pink spots left and they’re glistening with savory flavor. Any little browned bits on the bottom? Perfect, those bring so much flavor to this Delicious Recipe.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Dice your red bell peppers and stir them into the pot. Cook for about 3 minutes, letting them soften and release their sweet juices into the meat. If you love color in your chili, now’s when it really starts to pop!

Step 4: Stir in Seasonings

Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, chili powder, and cumin over the mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly. The air will fill with those warming, herbal Italian chili aromas, making this the Delicious Recipe your family will always remember.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Sauce

Pour in the fire roasted diced tomatoes (juices and all), tomato sauce, and chili beans. Stir to combine, scraping the pot’s edges so nothing sticks. Bring everything to a gentle simmer—don’t rush this part! Letting it bubble together for 25–30 minutes on low allows the flavors to meld and deepen, making your chili extra rich and satisfying.

Step 6: Finish with Parsley and Adjust Seasoning

Just before serving, stir in the chopped flat-leaf Italian parsley. Taste and add a bit more kosher salt, if needed. The parsley gives this Delicious Recipe its signature fresh pop, while a final taste-check makes sure all the flavors sing in harmony.

How to Serve Delicious Recipe

Garnishes

The right toppings can take this Delicious Recipe from homey to showstopper! Scatter more fresh chopped parsley, a good shower of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano, or a spoonful of luscious sour cream right before serving. Crusty toasted bread on the side? Always a good idea!

Side Dishes

This chili truly stands on its own, but you can pair it with simple sides for a more elaborate spread. Think buttery garlic bread, a crisp green salad tossed in Italian vinaigrette, or even a bowl of steamed rice. All these pairings complement and soak up the bold flavors in this Delicious Recipe.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving your Italian chili in toasted bread bowls or over creamy polenta for an extra decadent meal. For parties, offer a chili bar with lots of toppings so everyone can customize their bowls. However you serve it, this Delicious Recipe always feels special and a little bit festive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Italian chili stores beautifully in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making this Delicious Recipe even better the next day! Just let it cool before packing it up and tucking it away.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this chili freezes like a dream. Spoon cooled portions into zip-top freezer bags or freezer-safe containers, leaving enough room for expansion. Lay bags flat in your freezer to save space. You’ll have your Delicious Recipe ready and waiting for a quick dinner anytime within three months.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual servings in a pinch. A dash of fresh parsley or an extra sprinkle of cheese will brighten it right up before serving.

FAQs

Can I use mild Italian sausage instead of hot?

Absolutely! If you’re not keen on too much heat, swap in mild Italian sausage for a gentler, kid-friendly version of this Delicious Recipe. You’ll still get all the classic flavors with less spice.

Which beans are best for this Italian chili?

Most chili beans work wonderfully—look for kidney, pinto, or a flavorful chili mix. The beans make this Delicious Recipe extra hearty and add great texture with every spoonful.

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Yes! For a meatless twist, skip the beef and sausage and use your favorite plant-based or soy crumbles, or just double up on beans and veggies. The Delicious Recipe is adaptable and just as tasty.

How spicy is this chili?

With hot Italian sausage and chili powder, this chili has a little kick but isn’t overwhelming. For more heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes; for less, use mild sausage and skip the chili powder. Adjust the spice to make this Delicious Recipe all your own!

Is Italian parsley necessary, or can I substitute regular parsley?

Italian (flat-leaf) parsley adds a fresh, herbal finish, but regular curly parsley works in a pinch. You can even mix in some basil or oregano for an extra Italian twist in this Delicious Recipe.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a simple, soul-satisfying meal to put on repeat, this Delicious Recipe for Italian Chili With Sausage is it. Every spoonful bursts with flavor, and it’s just the thing to bring everyone together around the table. Give it a try—your taste buds (and your loved ones) will thank you!

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