Chili with Kielbasa

Dinner
By Rhonda

If you are looking for a hearty and rich chili that is easy to make, full of yummy flavor, and versatile, then this Chili with Kielbasa recipe is all you need! The great thing about this chili is that it takes a basic chili recipe and takes it to a whole new level.

Now that Winter is here, it’s time to embrace the chilly weather with a hot and comforting bowl of chili. One of the fun facts about chili is that there are so many different types of recipes and endless combination possibilities that you’ll never get bored experimenting and trying new recipes.

If you are looking for other unique chili ideas, bookmark our recipes for Authentic Cincinnati Chili and our Old-Fashioned Chili recipe that uses BBQ sauce.

🥘Ingredients

  • Tomato paste – any brand will work
  • Onion – I used yellow but you can use red or white.
  • Kielbasa – I removed the skin but you can leave on if you prefer.
  • Garlic – it really helps round out the flavor.
  • Tomatoes – I used canned but you can use fresh. 
  • Coffee – freshly brewed
  • Kidney beans – a combination of dark and light
  • Pinto beans – you can omit these if you prefer
  • Chili powder – a must in chili.
  • Cumin
  • Cayenne
  • Kosher salt 

🔪Instructions

At the bottom of this post, you will find complete directions.

🧾Substitutions

  • Kielbasa – feel free to sub out ground beef or regular pork sausage.
  • Beans – you can definitely use chili beans in lieu of kidney beans.

📖Variations

With the leftovers, you can make:

  • Nachos
  • Baked potatoes topped with chili
  • Chili mac

You can also top with:

  • Cheese
  • Tortilla chips
  • Sour cream
  • Jalapenos
  • Saltines
  • Green onions

🍽Equipment

  • cutting board
  • knife
  • Dutch oven
  • vegetable peeler

🍶Storage

Refrigerator: As long as you put the leftovers in an airtight container, they will last in the fridge for up to four days.

Freezer: This chili does freeze well. Just place it in a freezer-safe container and store for up to three months.

Reheat: To reheat the chili, remove it from the freezer and allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge. Then put it on a saucepan or microwave-safe bowl and reheat it accordingly.

🔎Top tip

Even though this chili will be ready to eat at the 2 hour mark, the longer it sits, the better it gets.

❔FAQ

Do I have to peel the Kielbasa?

That is a personal preference. I think it works better peeled as you don’t have to bite into the casing when you are enjoying the chili. It’s totally up to you.