New Jersey

Italian Sausage Chili

A Garden State tribute to New Jersey's rich Italian-American heritage. Sweet and hot Italian sausages meet San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil, and a blend of Mediterranean spices.

⏱ 1 hr 45 min 🍴 Serves 8 🌶 Medium Heat 🍝 Italian-Style

Equipment Needed

🍲 Large Pot
🥣 Mixing Bowls
🔪 Sharp Knife
🥤 Cutting Board
🥄 Wooden Spoon

Instructions

1

Brown the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add both sweet and hot Italian sausages, breaking them up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and crumbled, about 10 minutes.

Tip: The combination of sweet and hot sausage creates perfect balance. Adjust the ratio to your heat preference.
2

Saute vegetables: Add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5-6 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.

3

Add spices: Stir in the chili powder, Italian seasoning, fennel seeds, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Toast for 1-2 minutes.

4

Deglaze with wine: Pour in the red wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

5

Add tomatoes and broth: Pour in the San Marzano tomatoes (crush them by hand as you add them) and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.

6

Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

7

Add beans: Stir in the cannellini beans during the last 20 minutes of cooking.

8

Finish with basil: Remove from heat and stir in the torn fresh basil. Let it wilt into the chili for 2-3 minutes.

9

Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with grated Parmesan, torn fresh mozzarella, and additional basil leaves. Serve with crusty Italian bread for dipping.

💡 New Jersey Tips & Variations

  • Source quality sausage: Visit an Italian pork store in Newark, Hoboken, or anywhere in Jersey for authentic sausage with perfect fennel flavor.
  • San Marzano is key: These DOP-certified Italian tomatoes have lower acidity and sweeter flavor than regular canned tomatoes.
  • Jersey tomato season: During summer, substitute fresh Jersey tomatoes for the canned. Use about 2 lbs, peeled and chopped.
  • Add more vegetables: Diced zucchini or eggplant can be added with the peppers for a heartier version.
  • Serve over pasta: This chili is delicious over rigatoni or penne, Italian-American style.
  • Day-after sandwiches: Leftover chili makes an incredible sub sandwich on a fresh hoagie roll with melted provolone.