As the chill of winter sets in, there’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a good bowl of chili. Imagine rich bites of steak mingling with spicy sausage, all enveloped in a thick, hearty sauce brimming with five varieties of beans. This Spicy Five Bean Steak and Sausage Chili is not only deeply comforting, but it’s also a fantastic make-ahead meal—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With minimal prep time and the promise of leftovers that only get better with age, it’s an instant crowd-pleaser that will have your family asking for seconds. Are you ready to transform a simple dinner into a flavor-packed adventure? Let’s dive in!

Why is this chili a must-try?

Hearty, Warm Comfort: This Spicy Five Bean Steak and Sausage Chili delivers ultimate warmth, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave a cozy meal.

Flavor Explosion: Packed with tender steak, zesty sausage, and five varieties of beans, every spoonful is a delightful burst of savory goodness.

Make-Ahead Marvel: Ideal for meal prep, this chili is freezer-friendly—just make a big batch and enjoy delicious leftovers all week long!

Versatile Serving Options: Great over baked potatoes or with cornbread, this chili is adaptable to your favorite sides—perfect for impressing your guests.

Time-Saving Wonder: With minimal effort and just a few key steps, you can have an incredible meal ready and simmering, freeing you to relax or catch up on your favorite show.

Spicy Five Bean Steak and Sausage Chili Ingredients

• Discover the perfect blend of flavors in this homemade chili!

For the Chili

Steak (1.5 pounds skirt or flank) – Adds rich flavor and texture; feel free to use leftover steak for convenience.
Hot Sausage (1 pound, cooked and crumbled) – Provides a kick of spiciness; substitute with mild sausage for a gentler heat.
Ranch Style Beans (42 ounces, ~3 cans) – This key ingredient enhances the chili’s flavor profile; consider homemade if unavailable.
Pre-Cooked Black Beans (3 cups or 2 cans) – Offers creaminess and protein; mix and match with other beans if desired.
Pre-Cooked Great Northern Beans (3 cups or 2 cans) – Light texture; can be replaced with other white beans for variety.
Pre-Cooked Pinto Beans (3 cups or 2 cans) – Adds heartiness and fiber; substitute with more black beans if you prefer.
Pre-Cooked Light Red Kidney Beans (3 cups or 2 cans) – Provides bulk to the chili; can be swapped with additional pinto beans.
Tomato Sauce (15 ounces or 1 can) – Adds moisture and acidity; fresh tomatoes can be used for a fresher touch.
Petite Diced Tomatoes (28 ounces or 2 cans) – Enhances texture; regular diced tomatoes can work in a pinch.
Diced Tomatoes with Green Chile (20 ounces or 2 cans) – Introduces heat and extra flavor layers; sub with regular diced tomatoes if needed.
Chopped Green Chile (7 ounces) – Adds a mild spice; fresh chiles make a great substitute if available.
Onion (1, chopped small) – Acts as a flavor base; any onion variety will do.
Red Bell Pepper (1, chopped small) – Adds a sweet crunch; can substitute with yellow or green peppers as per taste.
Green Bell Pepper (1, chopped small) – Complements the red pepper; can be omitted for fewer vegetables.
Taco Seasoning (4 tablespoons) – This blend ties all the flavors together; homemade seasoning or chili powder can kick up the taste.

For Serving

Cheese and Sour Cream (optional toppings) – Enhances texture and creaminess; personalize according to your family’s preference.

Enjoy crafting this delicious Spicy Five Bean Steak and Sausage Chili that will warm your heart and home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Five Bean Steak and Sausage Chili

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Start by chopping your onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper into small pieces. Dice the steak into bite-sized chunks and set aside. Get your pre-cooked beans and canned tomatoes ready, ensuring you have all the ingredients for the Spicy Five Bean Steak and Sausage Chili at hand. This pre-preparation will make the cooking process smoother and faster.

Step 2: Cook Steak
In a large pot over medium-high heat, drizzle a little oil and add the diced steak. Sear the meat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are browned on all sides. Once done, remove the steak from the pot and let it sit on a plate while you prepare the sausage, ensuring the fond remains in the pot for extra flavor.

Step 3: Cook Sausage
Using the same pot, add the crumbled sausage to the hot oil and cook for about 7 minutes, stirring regularly until nicely browned. The goal is to develop a rich flavor and texture. The aroma of the sausage will fill your kitchen, signaling that it’s time to combine the hearty elements of your chili.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
Return the browned steak to the pot with the sausage, then add all the pre-cooked beans—ranch-style, black, great northern, pinto, and kidney beans—along with the tomato sauce, petite diced tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chiles, chopped green chiles, and your prepared vegetables. Stir everything well to incorporate all the ingredients, creating a flavorful base for your Spicy Five Bean Steak and Sausage Chili.

Step 5: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a vigorous simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot partially with a lid and let it simmer gently for at least 4-6 hours. This long, slow cooking will meld the flavors beautifully, with the chili transforming into a thick, hearty dish. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure an even cook.

Step 6: Serve
Once the chili has thickened and the flavors have developed, it’s time to serve! Ladle the piping hot Spicy Five Bean Steak and Sausage Chili into bowls. For that perfect finishing touch, top each bowl with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy this comforting meal with your favorite sides for a truly satisfying dinner!

Spicy Five Bean Steak and Sausage Chili Variations

Feel free to explore these creative twists to make the Spicy Five Bean Steak and Sausage Chili even more satisfying and tailored to your taste!

Ground Turkey: Swap out the beef or sausage for ground turkey for a lighter, leaner chili without sacrificing flavor. It’s an excellent option if you’re looking to cut calories while still enjoying a hearty dish.
Vegetarian Delight: For a vegetarian version, leave out the meats and add extra beans or lentils instead. You could even toss in some diced zucchini or mushrooms for a delicious texture.
Extra Heat: If you love spice, add chopped jalapeños or an extra can of diced tomatoes with green chiles. This can intensify the heat while keeping that comforting chili flavor.
Smoky Flavor: Mix in some smoked paprika or a couple of slices of smoked sausage to impart a unique smoky depth to your chili. Pair this with a side of cornbread for a truly delightful experience!
Beans Galore: Feel free to mix and match different beans based on personal preference or whatever you have on hand. Black-eyed peas or cannellini beans can introduce new textures and flavors.
Sweet Twist: Incorporate a small amount of brown sugar or honey to balance the heat and acidity. Sweetness can deepen the chili’s complexity, surprising your taste buds in the best way!
Topping Variations: Elevate your serving experience by topping your chili with avocado slices, fresh cilantro, or crumbled tortilla chips. These additions can provide a beautiful crunch and freshness to every bowl.

If you’re inspired by different flavors, you might also enjoy making a refreshing Cucumber Salad with Spicy Dressing alongside your chili. Or, if you’re in the mood for something lighter, the Shrimp and Avocado Bowls could be a perfect pairing! Enjoy modifying this chili recipe to your heart’s content!

What to Serve with Spicy Five Bean Steak and Sausage Chili

Elevate your dining experience by crafting the perfect meal around this hearty chili that warms the soul and fills the belly.

Buttery Cornbread: Its sweet and buttery texture contrasts beautifully with the spicy chili, making every bite delightful.
Creamy Coleslaw: The crunchy freshness of coleslaw balances the richness of the chili, adding a refreshing element to the table.
Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes serve as a wonderful base, soaking up all the vibrant flavors of the chili – a comforting duo!
Savory Garlic Bread: Crispy and warm, garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the chili, providing an irresistible combination of flavors.
Crisp Garden Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens and zesty dressing adds a lightness, complimenting the hearty chili exceptionally well.
Cheesy Quesadillas: Melted cheese inside a crispy tortilla makes for delicious dippers, enhancing the chili eating experience with extra gooey goodness.
Spicy Pickles: For an added kick, serve with spicy pickles as a side, bringing unexpected zest and crunch to your meal.
Fruity Sangria: A cool, refreshing glass of fruity sangria provides a lovely contrast to the warmth of the chili, making your meal even more festive.

Make Ahead Options

These Spicy Five Bean Steak and Sausage Chili is perfect for busy weeknights and can save you precious time when meal prepping! You can chop all the vegetables and even sear the steak up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To add even more convenience, mix all the canned ingredients together (except the beans) for quicker assembly. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine all the prepped ingredients in the pot with the beans and simmer as directed, ensuring a comforting meal that’s just as delicious as if made fresh. This prep-ahead approach not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen overnight, making it perfect for a cozy gathering.

How to Store and Freeze Spicy Five Bean Steak and Sausage Chili

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Freezer: Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Heat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until piping hot.

Portioning: Freeze in individual portions for quick and easy meals without the hassle of cooking from scratch. Enjoy the comforting taste of your Spicy Five Bean Steak and Sausage Chili whenever you need a warm meal!

Expert Tips for Spicy Five Bean Steak and Sausage Chili

Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly chopped vegetables, especially onions and peppers, enhance the flavor significantly. Avoid overcooking them; you want a bit of crunch!
Avoid Overcrowding: If your pot is too small, the chili may not simmer properly. Use an 8-quart pot or larger to ensure even cooking.
Flavor Development: For the best taste, allow the chili to simmer for the full 4-6 hours. This slow cooking melds the spices and ingredients into a rich, savory experience.
Customize the Heat: Not everyone enjoys spiciness! Adjust the amount of hot sausage or green chiles according to your family’s heat preference when making your Spicy Five Bean Steak and Sausage Chili.
Perfect Your Storage: Cool chili completely before storing in air-tight containers. Freeze in portions for easy future meals without sacrificing quality.
Experiment with Variations: Feel free to mix up the types of beans based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. This flexibility keeps the chili exciting every time you make it!

Spicy Five Bean Steak and Sausage Chili Recipe FAQs

What type of steak is best for this chili?
Absolutely! Skirt or flank steak works wonderfully in this recipe due to their rich flavor and tender texture. You can also use leftover steak for convenience—just chop it up and add it to the pot. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using sirloin or even substituting with ground beef.

How should I store leftover chili?
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up. When reheating, either use the microwave or heat it gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to ensure it warms evenly.

Can I freeze Spicy Five Bean Steak and Sausage Chili?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the chili to cool completely. Transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What can I do if my chili is too thick or too spicy?
If your chili ends up thicker than you’d like, simply stir in some broth or water gradually until you reach your desired consistency. As for spice, start by adding a little at a time. If it’s already too spicy, adding a dollop of sour cream or some shredded cheese on top when serving can help tone down the heat.

Is this chili suitable for dietary restrictions?
Yes! To make it gluten-free, ensure your sausage and any seasoning blends you use are labeled as gluten-free. For allergies, be mindful of any specific ingredients; you can omit or substitute the green chiles if you’re sensitive to spiciness. For veggie lovers, a vegetarian version is easily achievable by omitting the meats and increasing the beans or adding vegetables like zucchini or corn instead.

How can I enhance the flavor of my chili?
For an extra depth of flavor, try allowing your chili to simmer for a longer period, ideally 6-8 hours on low heat. You can also experiment by adding a splash of beer or a tablespoon of cocoa powder, which deepens the flavor profile without adding sweetness. Enjoy discovering new variations each time you make your Spicy Five Bean Steak and Sausage Chili!