Owens Sausage Chili: A Taste of Comfort and Simplicity

There’s a unique magic in recipes that whisper stories of home and simple pleasures. This Owens Sausage Chili is one such dish. It’s not a fancy, multi-day affair, but rather a testament to how a few humble ingredients, brought together with care, can create something truly satisfying. I remember stumbling upon this recipe in a newspaper coupon section years ago, a humble offering tucked between advertisements. What struck me was its promise of “tasty and VERY easy-to-make chili.” It sounded like the perfect antidote to a busy weeknight, a way to conjure warmth and flavor without hours spent at the stove. And it delivered, becoming a go-to for those moments when comfort food is the only answer.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Servings: 4-6
• Yield: Approximately 1.5 quarts
• Dietary Type: Classic American Chili

Ingredients

This chili is built on a foundation of savory sausage and aromatic vegetables, brought together with classic chili seasonings.

• 1 lb Owens hot sausage
• 1 cup onion, diced
• 1 cup green bell pepper, diced
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 3/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Equipment Needed

You won’t need a vast arsenal of kitchen gadgets for this straightforward chili.

• Large skillet
• Spatula or wooden spoon for browning and stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

The beauty of this Owens Sausage Chili lies in its simplicity. Follow these steps for a delicious and comforting bowl.

1. Begin by placing the Owens hot sausage into a large skillet. Cook over medium heat, breaking up the sausage with a spatula or wooden spoon as it browns.
2. Once the sausage is browned and no longer pink, add the diced onion to the skillet. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes tender and translucent. At this stage, it’s important to carefully drain off any excess drippings from the skillet. This step helps to prevent the chili from becoming too greasy.
3. Next, add the diced green bell pepper to the sausage and onion mixture. Stir to combine and cook for a minute or two, allowing the peppers to soften slightly.
4. Now, it’s time to incorporate the seasonings. Blend the chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder into the sausage mixture. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed and toast for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This brief toasting of the spices enhances their flavor.
5. Pour in the tomato sauce and water. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
6. Bring the chili to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to medium to low. Cover the skillet and allow the chili to simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Expert Tips & Tricks

While this recipe is wonderfully straightforward, a few chef-level touches can elevate your Owens Sausage Chili even further.

• Spice Level Control: The “hot” in Owens hot sausage is a good starting point, but if you prefer a milder chili, you can opt for mild pork sausage and then control the heat with additional chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper added during the seasoning stage. Conversely, for a spicier kick, consider adding a minced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce during the simmering process.
• Aromatic Foundation: For an even deeper flavor base, you could sauté the diced onion and green bell pepper for a few minutes longer before adding the sausage. This allows them to caramelize slightly, adding a touch of sweetness and complexity.
• Simmering Patience: While 20-25 minutes is the recommended simmering time, don’t be afraid to let it go a little longer, especially if you have the time. A longer, slower simmer (on very low heat, of course) can further develop the flavors and create a richer texture. Just remember to stir more frequently to prevent scorching.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This hearty chili is fantastic served piping hot. It’s traditionally enjoyed on its own, but it also makes an excellent base for other dishes.

• To Serve: Ladle the hot chili into bowls. Classic accompaniments include shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, chopped fresh cilantro, or a sprinkle of green onions. Cornbread or oyster crackers are perfect for dipping. This chili also works wonderfully as a topping for baked potatoes, nachos, or even as a filling for chili dogs.
• Room Temperature: This chili should not be left at room temperature for more than two hours due to the meat content.
• Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: This chili freezes exceptionally well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator. Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth if it has become too thick. Alternatively, it can be reheated in the microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

Nutritional Information

This data is an estimation and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (approx.)	% Daily Value (approx.)
Calories	431 kcal	—
Calories from Fat	—	300 g (70%)
Total Fat	33.4 g	51%
Saturated Fat	11.2 g	56%
Cholesterol	65.8 mg	21%
Sodium	1617.7 mg	67%
Total Carbohydrate	18.1 g	6%
Dietary Fiber	3.5 g	14%
Sugars	7.4 g	29%
Protein	16.1 g	32%

Variations & Substitutions

While the original recipe is a classic for a reason, feel free to experiment with these variations.

• Bean Bonanza: While this recipe is bean-free, many chili purists enjoy adding beans. Kidney beans, pinto beans, or black beans are excellent choices. Add them during the last 15-20 minutes of simmering, allowing them to heat through.
• Vegetable Boost: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or corn kernels along with the onion and bell pepper for added flavor and texture.
• Spice It Up: For those who love heat, consider adding a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the onions and peppers, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spice blend.
• Tomato Twist: If you have them on hand, a can of diced tomatoes (undrained) can be added along with the tomato sauce for a chunkier chili.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A: Absolutely! While Owens hot sausage provides a specific flavor profile, you can substitute with mild Italian sausage, chorizo, or even ground beef if you prefer. Adjust seasonings accordingly.

Q: Is it possible to make this chili vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can omit the sausage and sauté the onions and bell peppers in a bit of olive oil. For added heartiness, consider adding a can of drained and rinsed black beans or kidney beans.

Q: How do I thicken the chili if it’s too thin?
A: If your chili is thinner than you like after simmering, you can create a slurry by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this slurry into the simmering chili and cook for another minute or two until thickened.

Q: Can I make this chili ahead of time?
A: Yes, this chili is actually better made a day in advance. The flavors have more time to meld and deepen overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store cooled chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Owens Sausage Chili is a humble champion of simple, delicious cooking. It proves that you don’t need complicated techniques or exotic ingredients to create a dish that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite. It’s the kind of recipe that invites conversation and togetherness, perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. I encourage you to gather your ingredients, embrace its simplicity, and savor the comforting flavors. Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and any delicious variations you discover – after all, that’s where the true joy of cooking lies. Serve it with your favorite toppings and a side of your favorite cornbread, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to please.