Hey y’all! If you’re searching for a bold, hearty, and downright irresistible dinner, this Chorizo Chili hits the spot every single time. With smoky chorizo, tender beans, and a blend of savory spices, this one-pot wonder is perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or cozy nights in. Let’s get cooking and watch this flavorful Chorizo Chili become your new go-to comfort food!
Why You’ll Love This Chorizo Chili
- Full of Flavor: The spicy chorizo and rich spices make every bite unforgettable.
- Easy One-Pot Meal: Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add your favorite toppings to make it your own.
- Feeds a Crowd: Ideal for potlucks, tailgates, or gatherings.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and save some for later!
Chorizo Chili Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) Mexican chorizo sausage, casings removed
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 (15-oz) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 (15-oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How to Make Chorizo Chili: Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Base
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Brown the Meats
Add the chorizo and ground beef to the pot, breaking them up with a spatula. Cook for about 7-8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Season and Simmer
Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, cayenne (if using), and brown sugar. Mix well to coat the meat and veggies in spices. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), beans, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook the Chili
Bring the chili to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 35-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Let the flavors meld and the chili thicken to your desired consistency.
5. Serve
Ladle the chorizo chili into bowls and load up with your favorite toppings—shredded cheddar, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and fresh jalapeños are all fair game!
Notes & Cooking Tips
- For extra depth, toast the spices for 1 minute before adding liquids. Learn more about blooming spices in chili recipes.
- For a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
- Adjust spice by mixing hot and mild chorizo, or leave out the cayenne for a milder dish.
Chorizo Chili Variations
- Vegetarian Chorizo Chili: Replace meat with plant-based chorizo and extra beans.
- Turkey Chorizo Chili: Use ground turkey chorizo and turkey breast for a lighter version.
- White Chorizo Chili: Swap red beans for white beans and add corn for a Southwestern spin.
Required Equipment for Chorizo Chili
- Large Dutch oven or stockpot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Sharp knife and cutting board
Chorizo Chili Storage Instructions
Allow chili to cool before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Get more info on safe food storage here.
What to Serve With Chorizo Chili: Pairings & Suggestions
- Cornbread or tortilla chips for scooping
- Fresh salad with avocado and lime dressing
- Rice or baked potatoes to stretch the meal
- Icy cold lager or citrusy non-alcoholic drinks
Pro Tips for Epic Chorizo Chili
- Use high-quality Mexican chorizo for authentic flavor; check out this chorizo guide for choosing the best variety.
- Let the chili rest off heat for 10 minutes before serving for even deeper flavor.
- Taste and adjust salt, spice, or sweetness before serving to balance flavors perfectly.
Chorizo Chili FAQ
- Can I make Chorizo Chili ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Chili tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded in the fridge.
- Is this Chorizo Chili recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, as long as your chorizo and broth are gluten-free—always double-check ingredient labels.
- Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
- Yes! Brown the meats and sauté veggies first, then combine all ingredients in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Chorizo Chili Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yields: 6-8 hearty servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chorizo sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
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1Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and red bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
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2Add minced garlic and chorizo sausage to the pot, breaking up the sausage with a spoon. Cook until the chorizo is browned, about 6-8 minutes.
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3Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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4Add kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth. Mix well, bring to a simmer.
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5Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
CLICK FOR NUTRITION INFO
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Approximate Information for One Serving
Serving Size:
1 serving
Calories:
380 caloriescal
Protein:
20gg
Fat:
22gg
Saturated Fat:
0g
Trans Fat:
0g
Cholesterol:
0mg
Sodium:
0mg
Potassium:
0mg
Total Carbs:
26gg
Fiber:
0g
Sugar:
0g
Net Carbs:
0g
Vitamin A:
0
Vitamin C:
0mg
Calcium:
0mg
Iron:
0mg
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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