Smokey Italian Chili Award Winner

Indulge in the bold, smoky flavors of the award-winning Smokey Italian Chili, a hearty blend of Italian sausage, ground beef, and classic chili spices with a Mediterranean twist. Infused with smoked paprika, chili powder, and a hint of cayenne for just the right kick, this recipe goes beyond traditional chili with the addition of sweet basil, grated Parmesan, and tender cannellini beans. A slow-simmered medley of crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and aromatic vegetables creates a rich, savory base that’s irresistibly comforting. Perfect for game day, family dinners, or anytime you're craving a unique take on classic chili, this dish is best served piping hot with fresh basil, a handful of Parmesan, and crusty bread for dipping—or over pasta for a true Italian-inspired feast. Ready to impress your guests? This smoky sensation delivers every time!

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:90 mins

Total Time:105 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
• 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 1 medium bell pepper (diced, any color)
• 4 cloves garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 0.25 teaspoons cayenne pepper
• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes (canned)
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 15 ounces cannellini beans (drained and rinsed)
• 15 ounces kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves (chopped, optional garnish)
• 0.5 cups Parmesan cheese (grated, for serving)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground)

Directions

Step 1

Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil.

Step 2

Brown the Italian sausage and ground beef in the pot, breaking the meat into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 8 minutes. Remove the cooked meat from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 3

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until softened.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 5

Stir in the smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Toast the spices for 30 seconds to enhance flavor.

Step 6

Add the cooked meat back into the pot. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth until well combined.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat to medium-low. Cover partially with a lid and let the chili cook, stirring occasionally, for 1 hour.

Step 8

After 1 hour, stir in the cannellini beans and kidney beans. Simmer uncovered for another 20-30 minutes, allowing the chili to thicken.

Step 9

Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.

Step 10

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy with crusty bread or over cooked pasta for an Italian twist.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(3550.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	4452.7

Total Fat 277.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 104.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 725.8mg	0%
Sodium 12325.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 243.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 69.5g	0%
Total Sugars 52.9g
Protein 259.1g	0%

Vitamin D 28.1IU	0%
Calcium 2101.4mg	0%
Iron 43.8mg	0%
Potassium 8006.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 55.4%

Protein: 23.0%

Carbs: 21.6%