This chorizo chili is a warm, hearty dish perfect for cozy nights. With spicy chorizo, beans, tomatoes, and a mix of flavorful spices, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
I love how easy it is to make this chili in one pot. Just mix everything together, let it cook, and enjoy! It pairs perfectly with some crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chorizo: Chorizo is the star here, bringing a punch of flavor and spice. You could use spicy or sweet chorizo based on your preference. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken chorizo works well.
Beans: Kidney and pinto beans add heartiness. If beans aren’t your thing, you could skip them or use lentils as a substitute for added protein.
Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes and tomato sauce create the base for this chili. You can use fresh tomatoes if they’re in season, just chop them up and add them to the pot. For a richer taste, use fire-roasted canned tomatoes.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin give the flavor depth. If you want to experiment, taco seasoning can be an excellent swap for added seasoning.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Chili Without Overcooking It?
Cooking chili is simple, but timing is crucial! Here are some steps to ensure your chili is perfectly cooked:
- Start with medium heat to sauté the onions and garlic. This builds a flavor base.
- Cook the chorizo until browned but not dry. Keep some fat for flavor, but drain excess if necessary.
- Simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes. This allows flavors to combine without burning the bottom.
- Check for doneness by tasting. Adjust spices before serving; chili gets richer as it sits.
Enjoy a bowl of this delicious chorizo chili, perfect for sharing!
How to Make Chorizo Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chorizo sausage
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Sour cream, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 30-40 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 1 hour. It’s perfect for a hearty meal that doesn’t take all day to prepare!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. This will release a wonderful aroma!
3. Cook the Chorizo:
Next, add the ground chorizo to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked through, around 5-7 minutes. If there’s too much fat from the chorizo, you can drain some off but keep enough for flavor.
4. Add the Spices:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 1 minute to toast the spices and bring out their flavors.
5. Incorporate the Beans and Tomatoes:
Now, add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, kidney beans, and pinto beans to the pot. Give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients.
6. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it cook gently for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help all the flavors meld together and thicken the chili.
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your chorizo chili hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves for added flavor and freshness.
Enjoy your rich, spicy, and hearty chorizo chili!
Can I Use Another Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! If you can’t find chorizo or prefer a different flavor, you can use Italian sausage or turkey sausage as a substitute. Just adjust any spices to achieve your desired heat level.
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes, chorizo chili freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove or microwave.
What Can I Serve with Chorizo Chili?
This chili pairs well with crusty bread, cornbread, or over rice for a filling meal. You can also serve it with tortilla chips for added crunch!
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the chorizo with plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a hearty texture. You can also add more veggies, like bell peppers or zucchini, for extra flavor.
