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There’s something magical about a hearty, flavorful chili, especially when it brings a unique twist to a classic dish. This 15-Bean Italian Sausage Chili isn’t just another chili recipe; it’s a fusion of Italian-inspired ingredients and the comforting, warming richness we love in a good bowl of chili. With the tender beans, zesty Italian sausage, and aromatic spices, each spoonful packs a punch. Perfect for family dinners, cozy gatherings, or meal prepping, this dish is bound to be a hit.
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This isn’t your average chili. The Italian sausage adds a savory richness, the fennel seeds bring a mild licorice note, and the smoked paprika adds a beautiful depth that makes every bite deliciously complex. Plus, with the 15-bean blend, you’re getting a variety of textures and flavors—not to mention a healthy dose of fiber, protein, and vitamins in every bowl. It’s filling, satisfying, and just as delicious the next day (if there’s any left!).
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1½ lb. uncooked bulk Italian sausage
- 2 cups yellow onions, chopped
- 1½ cups red bell peppers, chopped
- 2 Tbsp. garlic, minced
- 2 tsp. fennel seeds
- 1 tsp. smoked paprika
- 1 tsp. dried oregano, crushed
- 3/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 cup 15-bean soup mix, soaked overnight (discard flavor packet)
- 5 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (28-oz.) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 Tbsp. sherry or red wine vinegar
Optional Toppers:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Shredded provolone cheese
- Fresh basil, chopped
Step-By-Step Guide to Making 15-Bean Italian Sausage Chili
- Prepare the Beans
- If you haven’t soaked the 15-bean mix overnight, do this first. Once soaked, drain and rinse the beans thoroughly. Set aside.

- Cook the Sausage
- In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Once cooked through, use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the chopped yellow onions, red bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the peppers have softened. This step is essential to release the natural sweetness of the vegetables, adding depth to the chili.

- Add the Seasonings
- Stir in the fennel seeds, smoked paprika, crushed oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Let these spices cook with the vegetables for 1-2 minutes to release their full flavors.
- Combine Beans, Tomatoes, and Broth
- Add the soaked beans, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth to the pot, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, allowing it to cook uncovered for about 1½ – 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
- Finish with Vinegar and Sausage
- Once the beans are fully cooked, add the Italian sausage back to the pot. Stir in the sherry or red wine vinegar to add a subtle tang that balances the richness of the sausage and beans. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, adjusting salt and pepper to taste.

- Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with grated Parmesan, shredded provolone, or fresh basil as desired. Enjoy!

Expert Tips and Tricks
- Soaking Beans Properly: Always soak your 15-bean mix overnight. This reduces cooking time and improves the texture of the beans, making them soft and tender without breaking apart.
- Use Bulk Sausage for Flavor: Using bulk Italian sausage instead of pre-cooked or sliced varieties allows the flavors to infuse fully into the chili, making every bite savory and satisfying.
- Don’t Skip the Fennel: Fennel seeds bring out that signature Italian flavor. Crushing them slightly before adding helps release their oils, making the flavors even richer.
- Control the Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the red pepper flakes. If you like it spicier, add extra!
- Simmer for Full Flavor: This chili gets better the longer it simmers. Don’t rush—let it cook low and slow to develop the best flavor.
- A Splash of Vinegar: Adding the vinegar at the end enhances the flavors, cutting through the richness and giving the chili a bright, tangy note that complements the smoky, savory elements.
Variations (15 Ways to Change it Up)
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and add more beans or a plant-based sausage substitute.
- Ground Beef: Swap out the Italian sausage for lean ground beef for a more classic flavor.
- Turkey Sausage: Use Italian turkey sausage for a lighter version with less fat.
- Chorizo: Substitute chorizo for a smoky, spicy kick.
- Add Fresh Tomatoes: Include fresh cherry or grape tomatoes for a burst of sweetness.
- Spinach or Kale: Add chopped spinach or kale for a nutrient boost.
- Roasted Red Peppers: Add roasted red peppers for extra flavor and smokiness.
- Fire-Roasted Tomatoes: Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a deeper, charred flavor.
- Extra Veggies: Include carrots, celery, or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
- White Beans: Add in white beans, like cannellini, for a creamy texture.
- Thick and Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamier version.
- Smoked Sausage: Replace Italian sausage with smoked sausage for a bolder flavor.
- Sweet Sausage: Use sweet Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Chickpeas: Add chickpeas for a unique texture.
- Cheesy Finish: Melt in a handful of mozzarella or provolone for extra creaminess.
What to Serve With 15-Bean Italian Sausage Chili (15 Ideas)
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for dipping and soaking up all the flavors.
- Cornbread: A sweet cornbread pairs beautifully with the savory chili.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for adding a buttery, garlicky element.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad complements the hearty chili.
- Pasta: Serve over pasta for a hearty chili-mac variation.
- Steamed Rice: Chili over rice is classic comfort food.
- Baked Potatoes: Spoon the chili over baked potatoes for a filling meal.
- Tortilla Chips: Use it as a dip for tortilla chips!
- Polenta: Serve over creamy polenta for an Italian-inspired twist.
- Coleslaw: Add a cool, crunchy contrast with coleslaw on the side.
- Mashed Potatoes: Ladle the chili over mashed potatoes.
- Breadsticks: Great for scooping and enjoying with each bite.
- Quinoa: Try it over quinoa for a healthy, protein-packed base.
- Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado slices add a creamy, cool element.
- Cheesy Nachos: Layer on nachos with cheese for an indulgent snack.
Storage Tips and Batch Cooking for Family Gatherings
This 15-Bean Italian Sausage Chili recipe makes about 8 hearty servings, but if you’re cooking for a larger crowd, double the recipe to keep everyone satisfied!
- Storing Leftovers: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Preparing in Advance: This chili tastes even better the next day, so you can prepare it 1-2 days ahead of time. Simply store it in the fridge, then reheat when ready to serve.
- Scaling Up for Gatherings: For a family gathering, double or even triple the recipe to ensure everyone has enough. Plan for about 1½ – 2 cups per person if it’s the main dish.
Additional Notes
This 15-Bean Italian Sausage Chili is a versatile, deeply flavorful meal that’s perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights, or anytime you need a comforting, hearty meal. With the Italian flavors, a variety of textures from the beans, and a rich, satisfying broth, this chili will be a hit no matter where you serve it. And with so many ways to change it up, you’ll never get bored!
Dig in and enjoy this comforting, nutritious bowl of Italian-inspired chili!

15-Bean Italian Sausage Chili: A Savory Twist That’s Sure to Satisfy
Ingredients
Optional Toppers:
Instructions
- If you haven’t soaked the 15-bean mix overnight, do this first. Once soaked, drain and rinse the beans thoroughly. Set aside.
- In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Once cooked through, use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped yellow onions, red bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the peppers have softened. This step is essential to release the natural sweetness of the vegetables, adding depth to the chili.
- Stir in the fennel seeds, smoked paprika, crushed oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Let these spices cook with the vegetables for 1-2 minutes to release their full flavors.
- Add the soaked beans, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth to the pot, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, allowing it to cook uncovered for about 1½ – 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
- Once the beans are fully cooked, add the Italian sausage back to the pot. Stir in the sherry or red wine vinegar to add a subtle tang that balances the richness of the sausage and beans. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, adjusting salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with grated Parmesan, shredded Cheddar, or fresh basil as desired. Enjoy!