If you’re on the hunt for a chili that marries comforting warmth with a burst of rich, hearty flavor, this Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe is exactly what your taste buds need. Imagine tender ground beef and sweet Italian sausage simmered slowly with vibrant beans and a medley of bold spices, all brought together with a touch of brown sugar and tangy Dijon mustard. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl that’s perfect for family dinners, game days, or anytime you crave that deeply satisfying, homemade chili experience. This recipe never fails to impress, delivering both heartiness and a gentle sweetness that will make it a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing the flavors of this Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe. Every item on this list plays a vital role, from the smoky bacon adding depth to the sweet Italian sausage bringing a perfect balance of spice and sweetness to the dish.
- Bacon (8 slices, diced): Adds an irresistible smoky flavor and crispy texture that forms the base of the chili.
- Ground beef (1 lb): Provides a hearty, meaty foundation with rich flavor and satisfying bite.
- Sweet Italian sausage (1 lb, casings removed): Brings a touch of sweetness and aromatic spices that define the chili’s unique character.
- White onion (1, diced): Offers a mild sweetness and tender texture as it cooks down.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the chili with a fragrant, savory warmth that sings in every spoonful.
- Kidney beans (1 32 oz can, drained and rinsed): Contribute creaminess and earthiness, balancing the meat perfectly.
- White beans (1 32 oz can, drained and rinsed): Add a gentle, buttery texture that enriches the chili’s overall mouthfeel.
- Crushed tomatoes (1 28 oz can, undrained): Provide a bright, tangy base with a luscious texture that ties everything together.
- Ketchup (1 cup): Introduces subtle sweetness and acidity to round out the flavor profile.
- Brown sugar (½ cup): Enhances the natural sweetness and balances the spices beautifully.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds umami depth and a savory edge.
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Brings a sharp, tangy kick that lifts the chili’s complexity.
- Water (1 cup): Helps create the perfect consistency, allowing everything to meld during simmering.
- Chili powder (3 tablespoons): Provides warmth and that classic chili flavor we all love.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Offers a subtle smokiness enhancing the bacon’s richness.
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds an earthy, slightly nutty note that deepens the overall spice blend.
- Salt (2 teaspoons): Essential for balancing and heightening every flavor.
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds just the right touch of heat and sharpness.
How to Make Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bacon and Sauté the Aromatics
Start by cooking the diced bacon over medium heat in a large Dutch oven until it’s perfectly crispy. This step is crucial because the rendered bacon fat will infuse the chili with incredible flavor. Once cooked, remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, then carefully drain most of the bacon grease from the pot, leaving just enough to cook the aromatics. Toss in the diced white onion and cook it until it’s soft and translucent, which means it’s ready to release its natural sweetness and mingle with the rest of the ingredients. Finally, add the ground beef and sweet Italian sausage, breaking the meat apart as it browns evenly. Don’t forget to stir in the minced garlic at the end to warm up its irresistible fragrance.
Step 2: Add the Beans, Tomatoes, and Flavor Boosters
Next, it’s time to pile on the layers of flavor. Pour in both the kidney beans and white beans, along with the crushed tomatoes, making sure to include all those delicious juices for extra depth. Add the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard—they’re the magic trio that adds a beautiful balance of sweetness, acidity, and umami. Pour in the water to give the chili the perfect saucy consistency. Sprinkle in the chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper, then stir everything well so all the spices and ingredients marry beautifully. Finally, fold the crispy bacon crumbles back into the pot, so their smoky crispness is woven throughout the chili.
Step 3: Simmer Gently
Bring your chili to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, then reduce the heat and let it bubble away for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the bottom doesn’t stick and to help the flavors blend nicely. During this time, the sauce thickens, and all those wonderful ingredients come together in a harmony of taste and texture. If it looks too thick, add a splash more water to reach your desired consistency. The key here is patience—the longer it simmers, the more the flavors deepen, making this Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe unforgettable.
How to Serve Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe
Garnishes
You can elevate your chili experience with a few simple garnishes that add freshness, creaminess, and a little zing. A handful of shredded cheese melting on top offers rich, gooey goodness, while a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt provides a cool contrast to the warm chili. Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or green onions for color and a subtle bite that brightens every spoonful.
Side Dishes
Serve your chili alongside some crusty bread to soak up every last drop or crispy tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch. A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can bring a refreshing lightness alongside the hearty bowl of chili. Cornbread, especially slightly sweet and buttery, is another classic match that complements the chili’s robust flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe in individual bread bowls, letting your guests scoop out the tender inside to reveal a warm chili-filled delight. Another crowd-pleaser is layering your chili over baked potatoes for a loaded dish or turning it into a chili cheese dip during parties by topping with melted cheese and warm crackers. These presentations amp up the wow factor without extra fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This chili holds up beautifully in the fridge, making it an ideal make-ahead meal. Store any leftovers in airtight containers and keep them refrigerated for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting overnight, so your next-day bowl might just be even better.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this chili for long-term storage. Just allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. It will keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if it’s thickened too much. You can also microwave individual portions, just cover loosely and heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming and to maintain that perfect chili texture.
FAQs
Can I use spicy Italian sausage instead of sweet?
Absolutely! Using spicy Italian sausage will give your chili a bolder, more intense heat. If you like a little kick, this swap works wonderfully, but start with less chili powder if you want to keep the spice manageable.
Do I have to use both types of beans?
Not necessarily. The kidney and white beans together add a nice textural contrast, but you can use just one kind if that’s what you have on hand. The chili will still be tasty and hearty.
Is it possible to make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the bacon and meat first as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Just add the bacon at the end to keep it crispy or use it as a garnish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, swap the meat for plant-based sausage and add extra beans or vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.
What makes this Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe different from regular chili?
The addition of sweet Italian sausage, brown sugar, ketchup, and Dijon mustard creates a uniquely sweet and tangy flavor profile that distinguishes it from traditional chili. The combination of spices plus bacon also imparts smoky, layered richness that really stands out.
Final Thoughts
This Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe is a perfect blend of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors that warms you right down to your soul. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving comfort food, this chili checks every box with its rich depth and remarkable balance. I promise once you make this, it’ll become your go-to chili recipe for chilly nights and casual gatherings alike. So grab your ingredients and get ready to savor one of the most delicious chili experiences you’ll ever have!
Print
Sweet Italian Sausage Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sweet Italian Sausage Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish combining crispy bacon, savory ground beef, and sweet Italian sausage with beans and a rich blend of spices. Simmered to perfection, it offers a comforting meal perfect for chilly days and family gatherings. Topped with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, this chili satisfies with its bold taste and rich texture.
Ingredients
Meats
- 8 slices bacon, diced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 white onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Beans & 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
Additional Liquids & 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 Bacon and Sauté: In a large Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, then drain most of the bacon grease from the pot, leaving a little to sauté the vegetables.
- Sauté Onion, Brown Meat, and Add Garlic: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the ground beef and sweet Italian sausage to the pot. Brown the meat thoroughly, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks to ensure even cooking. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the drained kidney beans, white beans, crushed tomatoes with their juice, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and water. Stir everything together well. Season the mixture with chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Finally, stir in the crispy bacon crumbles saved earlier.
- Simmer the Chili: Bring the chili mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to blend the flavors. If the chili becomes too thick, add additional water to reach desired consistency.
- Serve: Spoon the chili into bowls and serve hot. Top with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired for extra richness and creaminess.
Notes
- Drain and rinse the beans well to reduce excess sodium from canned varieties.
- Use sweet Italian sausage for a mild and slightly sweet flavor; spicy sausage can be substituted for more heat.
- Adjust the amount of chili powder and smoked paprika based on your preferred spice level.
- Simmering the chili helps develop deeper flavors; avoid rushing this step.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
