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Italian Style Sausage & Squash Chili

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Italian Style Sausage & Squash Chili is a hearty one-pot meal that combines savory Italian sausage, tender butternut squash, creamy cannellini beans, and aromatic herbs in a rich tomato-based broth. This comforting chili delivers bold Italian-inspired flavors perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cans (15 ounces each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
  3. Remove excess grease if necessary.
  4. Add the onion and bell pepper and cook for 5 minutes until softened.
  5. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  7. Add the butternut squash, crushed tomatoes, cannellini beans, chicken broth, oregano, basil, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
  8. Stir well to combine.
  9. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  10. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
  11. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  12. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

  • Use spicy Italian sausage for additional heat.
  • Substitute turkey sausage for a lighter option.
  • Add kale or spinach during the final few minutes of cooking.
  • Include mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
  • Replace cannellini beans with kidney beans or Great Northern beans.
  • Add zucchini for additional vegetables.
  • Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer finish.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
  • Add extra broth when reheating if the chili thickens.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/italian-style-sausage-squash-chili/