Beef and Sausage Chili

Name: Beef and Sausage Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 cups lean ground beef; 2 cups spicy Italian sausage meat, casings removed; 1 large yellow onion, chopped; 2 poblano peppers, finely chopped; 1 habanero or jalapeño pepper, seeds removed (or kept for extra heat), finely chopped; 2 large garlic cloves, grated or minced; 1 can (156 ml) of tomato paste; 0.25 cup chili powder (or more, to taste); 1 tbsp dried oregano; 2 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 2 tbsp Better Than Bouillon beef base (or 2 beef bouillon cubes); 3 cups water; 1 (540 ml) small red beans, rinsed and drained; 1 (540 ml) red kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 28 oz diced tomatoes, with their juice (one can); 1 large piece 70% dark chocolate (approx. 20 g); 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional); 1 pinch granulated sugar or maple syrup; 1 tsp salt (to taste); 1 tsp pepper (to taste); Shredded cheddar cheese; Diced avocado; Fresh cilantro; 1 dollop of sour cream; Diced fresh tomatoes; Diced red onion

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Preparation 15 min Cooking 2 h 30min Level Easy

There’s nothing more comforting than a hearty bowl of chili on a cold day. This version packs a punch thanks to the habanero pepper, while the blend of beef and Italian sausage adds incredible depth. It simmers for two full hours… and it’s even better the next day!

Comfort Food at its Best: Chili

I’m excited to share my rich, complex, and savory version of this classic, combining lean ground beef with Italian sausage for a depth of flavor.

My secret tip: The addition of dark chocolate provides a beautiful dark color and a subtle bitterness that perfectly balances the heat from the poblano and habanero peppers.

Whether it’s for a cozy “family-style” dinner where everyone helps themselves straight from the pot, or simply to stock your freezer with comforting meals, this chili is a must-add to your recipe book!

Why make this recipe?

Perfect for crowds: whether it’s a family dinner, game night, or a casual get-together, this recipe is the ideal solution. It’s easy to scale up and always a crowd-pleaser.
Freezer-friendly: make a big batch and freeze individual portions. It’s the perfect “emergency meal” for busy weeknights or a quick, satisfying lunch!
Deep, complex flavors: thanks to a slow simmer and our secret ingredient (dark chocolate) this chili develops an incredible richness. The chocolate doesn’t make it sweet; instead, it adds a subtle bitterness and deep color that enhances the spice. The blend of different peppers and Italian sausage makes it even more fragrant and flavorful.
Versatile leftovers: one recipe, endless possibilities! Use your leftovers to top nachos, tacos, burritos, hot dogs, Sloppy Joes, or baked potatoes.

Tips for a perfect recipe:

Dark Chocolate, the Magic Ingredient: 70% dark chocolate brings an earthy bitterness that perfectly complements the heat of the peppers. It creates a velvetier texture and a rich, appetizing deep brown color. The chocolate also amplifies the notes of tomato, cumin, and chili.
Adjusting the heat: to reduce the spice level, carefully remove the white membranes and seeds from the habanero pepper. If the chili ends up being too spicy after simmering, a pinch of sugar or a splash of maple syrup will help neutralize the heat on your palate.
Better the next day: the flavors develop fully overnight, and this chili reheats beautifully.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months.