If you’re hungry for bold, cozy flavors and a dish that can feed a crowd or make the best leftovers of your week, you have to try Three Bean Chili with Beef and Sausage. This hearty recipe packs in smoky spices, a trio of tender beans, two types of savory meats, and colorful veggies, all simmered together into the kind of comfort food you’ll crave on chilly nights or anytime you need a little warmth. Whether you dress it up with toppings or ladle it over a hunk of cornbread, this chili is destined to become your new go-to for gatherings, game days, or easy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Three Bean Chili with Beef and Sausage is all in the balance—just the right mix of simple, accessible ingredients, each one adding a crucial layer of flavor, texture, or color. Don’t be intimidated by the list; most of these are pantry staples and familiar fresh veggies, the kind that make every spoonful satisfying and delicious.
- Ground beef: The backbone of this chili, adding hearty texture and savory depth.
- Ground Italian sausage: Infuses the pot with comforting spice and a little extra richness.
- Onion: Sweetens as it cooks, giving that underlying mellow flavor every good chili needs.
- Green bell pepper: Lends earthy vibrance and pops of color to the pot.
- Garlic: Sautéed until fragrant, bringing warmth and complexity to each bite.
- Chili powder: The essential spice mix foundation for that classic chili flavor.
- Ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy note that rounds out the seasoning blend.
- Smoked paprika: Offers subtle smokiness that puts this chili over the top.
- Salt: Makes every other flavor shine, seasoning throughout the process.
- Black pepper: Brings just enough gentle heat without taking over.
- Black beans (canned): Creamy and mild, these are a staple in every good chili trio.
- Kidney beans (canned): Firm and hearty, they give structure and deep color.
- Pinto beans (canned): The bean with the silkiest bite, rounding out the bean medley.
- Crushed tomatoes (canned): This forms the rich, tangy base of the chili sauce.
- Diced tomatoes with green chilies (canned): Adds juicy texture and just a touch of gentle heat.
- Tomato paste: Concentrates the umami and thickens everything beautifully.
- Beef broth or water: Brings the chili together and helps meld the flavors as it simmers.
How to Make Three Bean Chili with Beef and Sausage
Step 1: Brown the Meats
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage together, breaking them up with a spoon as they cook. Sauté until both meats are nicely browned and cooked through. This step gives your Three Bean Chili with Beef and Sausage its savory base, packed with flavor from the very beginning. Once browned, drain off any excess fat to keep the chili rich but not greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Toss in the chopped onion, diced green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are soft and fragrant. This short step is crucial—it creates a tender, aromatic foundation that will melt into the rest of your chili, delivering sweet and slightly sharp notes to every spoonful.
Step 3: Toast the Spices
It’s time to add the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle them over the softened veggies and meat, then let them bloom for about a minute, stirring constantly. This quick “toasting” releases the essential oils in your spices, making the Three Bean Chili with Beef and Sausage deeply aromatic and layered with flavor.
Step 4: Add Beans, Tomatoes, and Broth
Next, stir in the black beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans—all drained and rinsed, so they don’t add extra salt or starch. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies, a tablespoon of tomato paste, and the beef broth or water. Mix everything together thoroughly—the mixture should look colorful and inviting even before it simmers.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Bring your chili to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once bubbling softly, reduce the heat to low and cook uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken, flavors will meld, and the entire kitchen will smell irresistibly good. Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Your pot of Three Bean Chili with Beef and Sausage is ready to serve!
How to Serve Three Bean Chili with Beef and Sausage
Garnishes
Every bowl of chili can be extra special with the right toppings. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, add a dollop of sour cream, or scatter some sliced green onions for fresh crunch. Feeling adventurous? Thinly sliced jalapeños or a handful of cilantro leaves can really wake up the flavors in Three Bean Chili with Beef and Sausage. A drizzle of hot sauce or a squeeze of lime can also bring a bold finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This chili shines alongside warm, crumbly cornbread—absolutely perfect for soaking up that thick, rich sauce. Tortilla chips provide the crunch factor, while a fresh green salad lightens up the meal and brightens your plate. For a real treat, serve your Three Bean Chili with Beef and Sausage over a bed of steamed rice or with a pile of roasted sweet potatoes on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Sometimes, it’s all about the presentation. Use the chili as a filling for baked potatoes or serve it nacho-style over tortilla chips for a zesty twist. Ladle your Three Bean Chili with Beef and Sausage into bread bowls for a cozy weeknight upgrade, or scoop it into thermoses for tailgates and chilly fall picnics. However you serve it, this recipe makes every meal feel like an occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After you’ve had your fill, let the chili cool to room temperature. Transfer any leftovers into airtight containers and pop them in the fridge. Three Bean Chili with Beef and Sausage keeps beautifully for up to four days, and the flavors get even more developed with a little time to rest.
Freezing
This recipe is a true batch-cooking star. Portion out cooled chili into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (lay them flat for easy freezing). Your Three Bean Chili with Beef and Sausage will last for up to three months in the freezer—simply thaw overnight in the fridge when a chili craving strikes.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pour your leftover chili into a pot and warm gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If it seems a bit thick, add a splash of water or broth. You can also reheat individual bowls in the microwave, making it perfect for quick lunches or solo dinners.
FAQs
Can I make Three Bean Chili with Beef and Sausage in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just brown the meats and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours. The flavors will meld beautifully and cleanup is a breeze.
What if I don’t eat pork—can I substitute the Italian sausage?
Definitely. Swap the Italian sausage for ground turkey, chicken sausage, or any plant-based sausage you like. You’ll still get loads of flavor, and the chili will remain hearty and satisfying.
How can I make this chili spicier?
If you love heat, add a diced jalapeño to the pot with the onions, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper with the spices, or use hot Italian sausage instead of mild. You’re in complete control of the spice level!
Is Three Bean Chili with Beef and Sausage gluten-free?
It sure is! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but as always, double-check your sausage and broth labels to be certain there’s no hidden gluten or additives.
Can I add more veggies to this chili?
Why not! Chopped carrots, corn, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes are wonderful additions. This recipe is very forgiving, so feel free to make it your own and sneak in those extra veggies.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to upgrade your chili game, Three Bean Chili with Beef and Sausage is the recipe you need. It’s cozy, deeply flavorful, easy to make, and adaptable for any crowd. Grab your pot, gather your favorite toppings, and tuck into a bowl of true comfort—your friends and family (and your taste buds) will thank you!
Print
Three Bean Chili with Beef and Sausage Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This hearty Three Bean Chili with Beef and Sausage is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with protein and a medley of beans, this chili is easy to make and even better the next day.
Ingredients
Meat:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ pound ground Italian sausage
Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Spices:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Beans:
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
Canned Tomatoes:
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
Additional:
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ cup beef broth or water
Instructions
- Cook the Meat: In a large pot, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened.
- Add Spices: Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook to bloom the spices.
- Combine Ingredients: Add beans, canned tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth. Simmer for 30–40 minutes.
- Serve: Adjust seasoning and enjoy with toppings like sour cream and cheese.
Notes
- This chili tastes even better the next day.
- Serve with sour cream, shredded cheese, or cornbread.
- To make it spicier, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
