First Place Chili
This award-winning chili combines savory pork sausage and ground beef with a blend of rich spices and hearty beans for a comforting, flavorful dish. With a touch of masa harina for velvety thickness, it’s the perfect chili to serve at your next gathering or to enjoy on a cozy night in.
Servings: 8
Calories: 452kcal
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork sausage regular flavor for a savory base
- 1 pound ground beef can swap for lean ground chicken or turkey if desired
- 1 large white onion finely chopped (~1 cup or adjust to taste)
- 10 ounces tomatoes and green chiles Rotel tomatoes recommended
- 16 ounces chili beans drained and rinsed
- 15 ounces beans your choice: great Northern, kidney, or black beans
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 3 tablespoons chili powder adjust for heat preference
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika smoky or sweet, depending on preference
- 1 teaspoon crushed oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for a spicy edge
- 3 tablespoons masa harina optional, thickens the chili for a velvety texture
Instructions
Cook Meat and Onions:
- Heat a large stew pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the pork sausage, ground beef, and chopped onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the onions are tender (about 15 minutes).
- Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks.
- Drain excess fat to keep the chili from becoming greasy.
Add Ingredients:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, chili beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
- If using masa harina, stir it in now to help thicken the chili.
Simmer:
- Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Slow Cooker Option:
- Prefer a hands-off approach? Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker.
- Set the cooker to low and let it simmer for 4 hours.