Savory Smoked Sausage Chili Delight
This Savory Smoked Sausage Chili Delight is a mouthwatering twist on traditional chili recipes, featuring hearty smoked sausage as the star ingredient. The combination of spices, tender beans, and zesty diced tomatoes creates a robust and satisfying flavor profile that will warm you from the inside out. Perfect for a cozy dinner or game day gathering, this recipe serves two very hungry people. Enhance each bowl with a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar cheese for an extra layer of richness, making it an irresistible comfort food classic.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Canola oil
2 tablespoons (none)
White onion
1/2 cup (finely chopped)
Smoked sausage
1/2 lb (cut into 1/4 inch slices, then quartered)
Chili seasoning mix
1/4 cup (none)
Kidney beans
1 (15 ounce) can (undrained)
Diced tomatoes
1 (14 1/2 ounce) can (peeled and undrained)
Elbow macaroni
1/3 cup (dry)
Water
1/2-3/4 cup (as needed)
Instructions
1
Heat the canola oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.
2
Add the finely chopped white onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
3
Stir in the smoked sausage pieces and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the sausage is browned and crispy on the edges.
4
Sprinkle in the chili seasoning mix, stirring well to coat the sausage and onions evenly.
5
Pour in the undrained kidney beans and diced tomatoes, mixing thoroughly to combine all the ingredients.
6
Add the dry elbow macaroni and 1/2 cup of water to the pot, stirring to incorporate.
7
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the mixture to simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Check the pasta for doneness and add more water as needed to achieve your preferred texture.
8
Once the macaroni is al dente and the chili has thickened, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
9
Serve warm, topped with shredded sharp cheddar cheese if desired, and enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main protein used in the Savory Smoked Sausage Chili Delight?
The main protein in this recipe is 1/2 lb of smoked sausage, cut into 1/4 inch slices and quartered.
How many people does this chili recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to serve two very hungry people.
What type of oil is used for sautéing the vegetables?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of canola oil.
How should the white onion be prepared?
The white onion should be finely chopped before being added to the pot.
How long should I sauté the white onion?
Sauté the finely chopped white onion for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes softened and translucent.
What is the recommended cooking time for the smoked sausage?
The sausage should be cooked for 5-7 minutes until it is browned and crispy on the edges.
When do I add the chili seasoning mix?
Sprinkle in the chili seasoning mix after the sausage has browned, stirring well to coat the sausage and onions.
Should I drain the kidney beans before adding them to the chili?
No, the kidney beans should be added undrained to provide extra flavor and moisture.
What kind of canned tomatoes are used in this recipe?
Use one 14 1/2 ounce can of diced tomatoes that are peeled and undrained.
Is the macaroni cooked before it is added to the pot?
No, the elbow macaroni is added dry and cooks directly in the chili mixture.
How much water is initially added to the chili?
Start by adding 1/2 cup of water along with the dry macaroni.
What is the total simmering time for this chili?
The chili should simmer for approximately 20 minutes on low heat.
What should I do if the pasta is not done after 20 minutes?
Check the pasta for doneness and add more water as needed to achieve your preferred texture while continuing to simmer.
What is the ideal texture for the macaroni in this dish?
The macaroni should be cooked until it reaches an al dente texture.
What is a recommended topping for this smoked sausage chili?
Serving each bowl with a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar cheese is highly recommended.
What kind of pot is best for cooking this recipe?
A Dutch oven is the ideal cooking vessel for this recipe.
Can I use a different type of bean besides kidney beans?
While the recipe specifies kidney beans, you could substitute with black beans or pinto beans if preferred.
How do I know when the chili is ready to serve?
The chili is ready once the macaroni is al dente and the liquid has thickened to a robust consistency.
Is this recipe considered spicy?
Yes, the combination of chili seasoning and zesty diced tomatoes gives it a spicy and robust flavor profile.
Can I substitute canola oil with another oil?
Yes, any neutral cooking oil like vegetable oil or grapeseed oil will work well.
How much chili seasoning mix is required?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of chili seasoning mix.
Should the pot be covered while simmering?
Yes, cover the pot after reducing the heat to low to ensure the pasta cooks evenly.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use small shells or rotini, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Is this a good recipe for a game day gathering?
Yes, its hearty and comforting nature makes it perfect for game day or any cozy dinner.
How should I store leftover chili?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Does this recipe contain any fiber?
Yes, the kidney beans and diced tomatoes contribute fiber to the dish.
What if the chili gets too thick?
If the chili becomes too thick while simmering, simply stir in a little more water until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I use pre-cut onions?
Yes, using 1/2 cup of pre-chopped white onions is a great time-saver.
What gives the chili its 'smoky' flavor?
The primary smoky flavor comes from the 1/2 lb of smoked sausage used as the star ingredient.
Is this a quick dinner option?
Yes, with a prep and cook time totaling around 35-40 minutes, it is an excellent quick dinner choice.