Chili with Sausage: A Low Cholesterol Comfort Meal
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, hearty bowl of chili, and this version made with sausage will have you coming back for more. Inspired by a dish from a favorite local restaurant, this chili combines flavorful sausage, fresh vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that’s perfectly balanced with spices. While the recipe doesn’t include beans, feel free to add them if you like – this chili is highly versatile and can easily be customized to your tastes.
Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or serving it at a gathering, this dish will satisfy your craving for something rich and delicious, with a healthier twist. It’s the ideal choice for those watching their cholesterol without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion | 1 |
| Carrots | 1 |
| Celery | 2 stalks |
| Mushrooms (optional) | 4 oz |
| Chopped tomatoes (canned) | 8 oz |
| Tomato sauce | 1 can (16 oz) |
| Tomato juice | 1 cup |
| Sausage meat (low-fat) | 1 lb |
| Beef bouillon cubes | 5 |
| Chili powder | 1 tbsp |
| Sugar | 1 tbsp |
| Red pepper flakes | 2 tsp |
| Tabasco sauce (optional) | To taste |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 942.3 kcal |
| Fat Content | 60 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 19.9 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 162.8 mg |
| Sodium Content | 4516.5 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 61.3 g |
| Fiber Content | 12.8 g |
| Sugar Content | 36.8 g |
| Protein Content | 46.7 g |
Instructions
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Brown the Sausage: Begin by heating a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the sausage meat and cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat and set the meat aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add a little oil if necessary, then sauté the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Stir frequently, cooking until the vegetables are tender and aromatic, about 8-10 minutes.
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Combine Meat and Veggies: Once the vegetables are soft, return the browned sausage meat to the pot. Stir everything together, combining the sausage with the sautéed vegetables.
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Add Tomato-Based Ingredients: Pour in the tomato sauce, tomato juice, and chopped canned tomatoes. Stir to combine all the ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
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Simmer the Chili: Reduce the heat to low and allow the chili to simmer for about 30 minutes. This will give the flavors time to meld together and develop richness.
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Add the Seasonings: Stir in the beef bouillon cubes, chili powder, sugar, red pepper flakes, and Tabasco sauce (if using). The sugar helps balance the acidity from the tomatoes, making the chili smoother and more balanced. Simmer for another 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and the flavors deepen.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as necessary, adding more red pepper flakes or Tabasco sauce for heat, or a pinch of salt if needed.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the chili is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve it plain, accompanied by crispy tortilla chips for dipping. For a heartier meal, you can also serve it with a side of cornbread or over a bed of macaroni and melted cheddar cheese, a delicious way to use up leftovers.
Tips & Variations
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Add Beans: If you like a more traditional chili, you can add a can of kidney beans or black beans to the mix. Simply drain and rinse the beans before adding them to the pot during the simmering stage.
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Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, swap the sausage for plant-based crumbles or a hearty mix of beans and lentils.
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More Heat: Increase the amount of chili powder or add a few extra dashes of Tabasco sauce to make the chili spicier. You can also stir in some diced jalapeños if you enjoy the heat.
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Make Ahead: Chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Make a large batch, store it in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chili for up to 3 months for an easy meal later on.
Serving Suggestions
This chili with sausage is perfect on its own but pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it with:
- Tortilla Chips: A crispy, salty side to scoop up the chili.
- Macaroni and Cheese: A comforting option that pairs beautifully with chili, especially if you have leftovers.
- Cornbread: A classic accompaniment to chili, its slight sweetness balances the spiciness of the dish.
- Shredded Cheese & Sour Cream: Top your chili with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese for added richness and flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
This Chili with Sausage is a hearty yet healthy option that’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a low-cholesterol meal without compromising on taste. By using sausage with less fat, you cut down on the overall saturated fat content while still retaining the rich, flavorful profile that makes chili such a comforting meal. Plus, it’s a highly customizable dish, allowing you to make it as spicy, savory, or tangy as you prefer.
Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or preparing a meal to share with friends, this chili is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy, inexpensive, and packed with nutrients, making it a win in any kitchen.
Enjoy making this delicious and satisfying chili – the perfect meal for cooler weather or any time you crave a cozy, flavorful dish.
Recipe Summary:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 2 hours |
| Prep Time | 1 hour |
| Total Time | 3 hours |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Recipe Type | Low Cholesterol |
| Keywords | Healthy, Easy, Inexpensive, < 4 Hours |
| Calories per Serving | 942.3 kcal |
