#Italian Sausage Chili Slow Cooker Recipe
##Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a hot bowl of chili to stave off the cold weather, and this Italian Sausage Chili Slow Cooker Recipe is sure to hit the spot. This chili is a hearty meal in itself, with flavorful Italian sausage, a mix of beans, and an assortment of spices slow-cooked to perfection.
##Why Make this Recipe
Italian Sausage Chili is a perfect dinner for those days when you want a hearty meal but don’t have the time or energy for elaborate cooking. Just throw the ingredients into a slow cooker, let it do its magic, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready by dinner time!
##How to Make Italian Sausage Chili Slow Cooker Recipe
###Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
###Directions:
1. Brown the Italian sausage over medium heat until fully cooked in a large skillet. Drain the excess fat.
2. Transfer the cooked sausage to the slow cooker, then add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, cannellini beans, and beef broth.
3. Stir in the chili powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to the mixture in the slow cooker until well combined.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, until the chili has thickened and flavors are fully developed.
5. Once cooking time is complete, serve warm with garnished cheese, sour cream, or fresh basil if desired.
##How to Serve Italian Sausage Chili
Serve the chili hot in a bowl garnished with your choice of toppings such as chopped fresh basil, grated cheese, or a dollop of sour cream. A side of bread or biscuits pairs wonderfully with this chili for dipping and sopping up the delicious sauce.
##How to Store Italian Sausage Chili
Transfer leftover chili into an airtight container and refrigerate; it will keep nicely for up to four days. Freezing is also an option; stored properly, it should last in the freezer for about two months.
##Tips to Make Italian Sausage Chili
– If you prefer a spicier chili, use hot Italian sausage.
– You can also use other types of beans like black beans or pinto beans.
##Variation
If you’re not a fan of sausage, try substituting it with ground beef or ground turkey.
##FAQs
###Can I make this recipe in a pot on the stove instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this chili on the stovetop. The key difference is that you’d need to simmer the chili for about 45-60 minutes, until it’s thick and the flavors are well developed.
###Can I use more types of beans in the recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other beans you have on hand, like black beans or pinto beans.
###Can I freeze this chili?
Yes, this chili freezes really well. Pack it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and it will keep for about two months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it on the stove or in the microwave.