Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

This Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe is sure to impress with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. Perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings, this dish combines tender beef short ribs with savory chicken sausage, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a blend of spices that elevate it to award-winning status. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly evening or a dish to feed a crowd, this chili checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: The combination of short ribs and chicken sausage makes each bowl satisfying.
• Packed with Flavor: A unique blend of spices and fire-roasted tomatoes brings bold flavors to every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple cooking steps, you can easily create this delicious chili without fuss.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings for an extra layer of flavor and presentation.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth, gather the essential tools needed for this recipe. Having the right equipment will help you achieve perfect results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering stews like chili, allowing even heat distribution.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

This spicy chili is loaded with tender beef short ribs simmered with Mexican chicken sausage, fire roasted tomatoes, and the perfect blend of spices, award winning!

For the Base

• 2 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1.5 pounds boneless short ribs (cut into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes))
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 2 jalapeno peppers (chopped (use serranos for hotter, or more to taste))
• 6 cloves garlic (chopped (or more to taste))

The Meaty Addition

• 1 pound Mexican chicken sausage

The Liquid Components

• 1 cup beef stock
• 3 15-ounce cans fire roasted tomatoes

Beans & Seasoning

• 1 15-ounce can black beans (drained)
• 1 15-ounce can red kidney beans (drained)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons chili powder blend (I’m using a hot New Mexican blend)
• 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
• 1 teaspoon cumin

Optional Thickeners

• Hot sauce (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons corn meal (optional, for thickening – or use crushed or torn corn tortillas)

For Serving

• Your favorite toppings for serving

How to Make Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear them for 1–2 minutes per side until they have a nice brown crust. If necessary, do this in batches. Remove the short ribs from the pot and set them aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and jalapeno peppers to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until they soften.

Step 3: Cook Sausage

Stir in the chopped garlic and Mexican chicken sausage. Cook for another 5 minutes while breaking up the sausage until it is mostly cooked through.

Step 4: Add Spices

Mix in the chili powder, Mexican oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow them to cook for about 1 minute so that the spices bloom.

Step 5: Deglaze

Pour in the beef stock while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this adds flavor!

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Return the reserved short ribs back into the pot. Add in fire-roasted tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Stir everything together.

Step 7: Simmer

Bring your mixture to a boil. Then reduce heat, cover it up, and let it simmer for about 2 hours or until your short ribs are melt-in-your-mouth tender. You might need additional time depending on your stove.

Step 8: Thicken If Needed

If you find that your chili is too soupy, stir in corn meal or crushed tortillas now. Let it simmer briefly until thickened.

Step 9: Serve

Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite toppings before serving hot!

Enjoy this delicious Short Rib and Chicken Sausage Chili Recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

How to Serve Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

Serving your Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili can elevate the experience for you and your guests. The right toppings and sides can enhance the flavors and make your meal more enjoyable.

Toppings

• Sour cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess that balances the heat.
• Shredded cheese – Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack on top for a melty finish.
• Chopped green onions – Fresh green onions offer a mild crunch and pop of color.
• Avocado slices – Creamy avocado brings richness that complements the chili’s spices.
• Cilantro – Fresh cilantro adds brightness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Sides

• Cornbread – This sweet, fluffy bread pairs perfectly with chili, soaking up the delicious broth.
• Tortilla chips – Crunchy chips are great for dipping and add texture to each bite.
• Rice – Serve over steamed rice to absorb the chili’s flavors and add heartiness.

How to Perfect Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

Perfecting your Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili is key to achieving a comforting, flavorful dish. Follow these helpful tips for the best results.

• Use high-quality meat – Choosing well-marbled short ribs ensures tender, juicy bites.
• Let it simmer longer – Allowing the chili to simmer longer deepens the flavors; aim for at least two hours.
• Adjust spice levels – Taste as you go; add more heat gradually to suit your preference.
• Experiment with toppings – Don’t hesitate to try different toppings like jalapeños or lime juice for added zest.

Best Side Dishes for Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili can enhance your meal significantly. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread is a classic side that perfectly complements chili flavors.
2. Rice – Fluffy white or brown rice serves as a great base for soaking up spicy chili juices.
3. Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips provide a delightful contrast in texture, perfect for dipping.
4. Grilled Vegetables – Charred veggies add a smoky flavor that balances the richness of the chili.
5. Guacamole – Creamy guacamole offers a rich taste that pairs well with spicy dishes.
6. Side Salad – A fresh salad with citrus dressing can brighten up the meal, adding freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your cooking experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the meat adequately can lead to bland chili. Always season the short ribs and chicken sausage well before cooking.
• Bold ingredient prep: Cutting veggies too large affects the texture. Chop onions and peppers into small, even pieces for consistent cooking.
• Bold forgetting timing: Skipping the simmering time can leave the short ribs tough. Allow at least two hours for them to become tender and flavorful.
• Bold overcooking beans: Adding canned beans too early may lead to mushiness. Stir them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking for optimal texture.
• Bold neglecting toppings: Skipping toppings can make your chili less exciting. Use sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro to enhance flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Let it cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space for expansion when sealing the container.

Reheating Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 30 minutes or until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring occasionally, until heated evenly (about 5-7 minutes).
• Stovetop: Simmer on low heat in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to serve Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe?

Serve it hot with your favorite toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, or fresh herbs for added flavor.

Can I customize this Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or adjust the spices according to your preference.

How long does it take to cook this chili?

The total cooking time is around 2 hours and 15 minutes, including preparation and simmering.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This chili stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute with your favorite beans like pinto beans or chickpeas based on your taste.

Final Thoughts

This Short Rib and chicken sausage Chili Recipe is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on personal taste. Give it a try, and enjoy a hearty meal perfect for any occasion!