Sausage

Smoked Sausage And Bean Chili

Name: Smoked Sausage And Bean Chili
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) smoked sausage, sliced; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

By Wren Ashford · June 19, 2026 · Sausage

Prep20 min

Cook40 min

Total60 min

Serves6

As the weather starts to cool down, I find myself craving hearty, comforting dishes that warm the soul. One of my favorite recipes for this time of year is Smoked Sausage And Bean Chili. It's a staple in our household, and for good reason - it's easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be customized to suit any taste.

I remember the first time I made this recipe, it was a cold winter's night and I was looking for something that would fill the house with delicious aromas and warm our bellies. I combined smoked sausage, beans, and a blend of spices, and let it simmer for hours. The result was a rich, flavorful chili that quickly became a family favorite.

What I love about this recipe is that it's incredibly versatile. You can use different types of sausage, add in your favorite vegetables, or serve it with a variety of toppings. It's also a great make-ahead dish, as it only gets better with time.

In this recipe, I'll walk you through the steps to make a delicious Smoked Sausage And Bean Chili. From the initial prep work to the final serving, I'll share my tips and tricks for creating a truly unforgettable dish.

So, if you're looking for a recipe that will become a staple in your household, look no further. This Smoked Sausage And Bean Chili is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters, and it's perfect for a cold winter's night.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal prep work
It's a great make-ahead dish, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions
The combination of smoky sausage and beans is a classic, comforting flavor combination
You can customize the recipe to suit your taste, adding in your favorite vegetables or spices
It's a crowd-pleaser, perfect for serving at parties or gatherings
The leftovers are just as delicious as the first serving, making it a great option for meal prep

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great chili is layering the flavors. By starting with a rich, smoky sausage and adding in a blend of spices, you create a deep, complex flavor profile that's hard to resist. The addition of beans and tomatoes adds natural sweetness and texture, while the long simmering time allows all the flavors to meld together.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of acid. A splash of vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lime juice helps to balance the richness of the sausage and adds a bright, freshness to the dish. This is especially important when serving the chili with a variety of toppings, as it helps to cut through the richness.

Finally, the resting time is crucial. Letting the chili sit for at least 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to settle and the meat to become tender. This is especially important when serving a crowd, as it ensures that everyone gets a delicious, satisfying bowl of chili.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making a great Smoked Sausage And Bean Chili, the ingredients are key. You'll need a combination of smoked sausage, beans, tomatoes, and spices to create a rich, flavorful broth. Be sure to choose high-quality ingredients, as they will make a big difference in the final dish.

One of the most important ingredients in this recipe is the smoked sausage. Look for a sausage that's made with high-quality pork and has a good balance of spices. You can also use different types of sausage, such as Andouille or kielbasa, to add more flavor to the dish.

1 lb (450g) smoked sausage, slicedLook for a sausage that's made with high-quality pork and has a good balance of spices. You can also use different types of sausage, such as Andouille or kielbasa, to add more flavor to the dish.
1 large onion, choppedMake sure to chop the onion finely, as it will add a sweet, caramelized flavor to the dish. You can also use a food processor to chop the onion quickly and easily.
3 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic is a key ingredient in this recipe, adding a rich, depth of flavor to the chili. Make sure to mince it finely, as it will help to distribute the flavor evenly throughout the dish.
1 red bell pepper, choppedThe red bell pepper adds a sweet, crunchy texture to the dish. You can also use other colors of bell pepper, such as green or yellow, to add more flavor and variety to the chili.
2 tbsp chili powderChili powder is a blend of spices that adds a rich, complex flavor to the dish. You can also use different types of chili powder, such as ancho or guajillo, to add more depth and heat to the chili.
1 tsp ground cuminCumin is a key ingredient in many chili recipes, adding a warm, earthy flavor to the dish. Make sure to use high-quality cumin, as it will make a big difference in the final flavor of the chili.
1/2 tsp cayenne pepperCayenne pepper adds a spicy kick to the dish, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder chili, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoesDiced tomatoes add a burst of fresh flavor to the dish, and help to balance the richness of the sausage. Look for high-quality tomatoes that are low in sodium and have no added sugars.
1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsedRed kidney beans are a classic ingredient in chili recipes, adding protein and fiber to the dish. Make sure to drain and rinse the beans thoroughly, as they can be high in sodium.
1 tsp smoked paprikaSmoked paprika adds a deep, smoky flavor to the dish, and helps to balance the sweetness of the tomatoes. You can also use other types of paprika, such as sweet or hot, to add more flavor and variety to the chili.
Salt and pepper to tasteSeasoning the chili with salt and pepper is crucial, as it helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients. Make sure to taste the chili regularly and adjust the seasoning as needed.
2 tbsp olive oilOlive oil is used to cook the sausage and vegetables, and adds a rich, fruity flavor to the dish. You can also use other types of oil, such as avocado or grapeseed, to add more flavor and variety to the chili.

Ingredients for Smoked Sausage And Bean Chili

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy pot or Dutch ovenSharp knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatulaInstant-read thermometer

How to Make Smoked Sausage And Bean Chili

1
Heat the olive oil in a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
2
Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside on a plate. Leave the drippings in the pot, as they will add flavor to the dish.
3
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until it's softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
5
Add the chopped red bell pepper to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until it's softened, about 3-5 minutes.
6
Add the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper to the pot and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
7
Add the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine, then add the browned sausage back to the pot.
8
Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook, covered, for 30-40 minutes, until the flavors have melded together and the chili has thickened slightly.
9
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, then let the chili rest for at least 30 minutes before serving.
10
Serve the chili hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions, if desired.
11
Offer a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced onions, to let everyone customize their bowl of chili.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality ingredients, such as smoked sausage and fresh spices, to add depth and complexity to the dish.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of sausage or spices to add more flavor to the chili.
Let the chili rest for at least 30 minutes before serving, as this will help the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender.
Consider making a double batch of the chili and freezing it for later, as it's a great make-ahead dish.
Don't overcrowd the pot, as this can affect the texture and flavor of the chili. Cook the sausage and vegetables in batches if necessary.
Taste and adjust the seasoning regularly, as this will help to ensure that the chili is flavorful and balanced.
Consider serving the chili with a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced onions, to let everyone customize their bowl of chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not browning the sausage properly, which can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
Not cooking the vegetables long enough, which can result in a crunchy or raw texture.
Not seasoning the chili regularly, which can result in a bland or unbalanced flavor.
Overcrowding the pot, which can affect the texture and flavor of the chili.
Not letting the chili rest long enough, which can result in a dish that's not fully flavored or tender.
Not using high-quality ingredients, which can affect the depth and complexity of the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Using different types of sausage, such as Andouille or kielbasa, to add more flavor to the dish.
Adding other vegetables, such as carrots or potatoes, to add more texture and variety to the chili.
Using different types of beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, to add more protein and fiber to the dish.
Adding a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to balance the richness of the sausage.
Using different types of spices, such as cumin or coriander, to add more depth and complexity to the dish.
Serving the chili with a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced onions, to let everyone customize their bowl of chili.

What to Serve With Smoked Sausage And Bean Chili

Smoked Sausage And Bean Chili is a hearty, comforting dish that's perfect for serving on a cold winter's night. You can serve it with a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced onions, to let everyone customize their bowl of chili.

Some other great options for serving with the chili include crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad. You can also serve it with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, to add more texture and variety to the meal.

Crusty breadCornbreadSide saladRoasted vegetablesMashed potatoesShredded cheese

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Smoked Sausage And Bean Chili is a great make-ahead dish, as it can be refrigerated or frozen for later. To refrigerate the chili, let it cool to room temperature, then cover it and refrigerate it for up to 3 days.

To freeze the chili, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To reheat the chili, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's hot and bubbly. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds, until it's hot and bubbly.

It's also a good idea to portion out the chili into individual servings, then freeze them for later. This will make it easy to grab a quick and easy meal on a busy day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of sausage should I use?

You can use any type of smoked sausage, such as Andouille or kielbasa, to add more flavor to the dish. Just be sure to choose a sausage that's made with high-quality pork and has a good balance of spices.

Can I use different types of beans?

Yes, you can use different types of beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, to add more protein and fiber to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and seasoning accordingly.

How long can I store the chili?

You can store the chili in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label the container or bag with the date and contents, and to reheat it safely and evenly.

Can I make the chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make the chili in a slow cooker. Simply brown the sausage and cook the vegetables in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

What toppings should I serve with the chili?

You can serve the chili with a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced onions, to let everyone customize their bowl of chili. Other great options include crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad.

Can I make the chili ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the chili ahead of time. Simply cook it, then let it cool to room temperature. Cover it and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat it safely and evenly when you're ready to serve it.

How spicy is the chili?

The chili has a moderate level of heat, thanks to the cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder chili, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. If you prefer a spicier chili, you can add more cayenne pepper or use hotter peppers, such as habanero or ghost peppers.

Can I serve the chili at a party or gathering?

Yes, the chili is a great option for serving at a party or gathering. It's easy to make in large quantities, and it's perfect for serving with a variety of toppings and sides. You can also make it ahead of time and reheat it when you're ready to serve it.

The Full Recipe

Recipe Card