There’s something irresistibly comforting about a bowl of chili, especially when the temperatures drop and cozy evenings beckon. This Spicy Turkey Sausage & Kale Chili isn’t just another soup; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl, weaving together the robust flavors of spicy turkey sausage with the earthy richness of kale. I created this dish after a particularly busy week, yearning for something satisfying but easy to whip up. In just about 20 minutes, you can have a hearty, Italian-inspired meal that’s bursting with flavor, perfect for those nights when you need comfort without the fuss. Plus, its flexibility means you can easily mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand, ensuring that your chili experience remains fresh and exciting. So, let’s dive in and create a warm, inviting dish that will not only please your palate but also bring a little warmth to your home!
Why is Spicy Turkey Sausage & Kale Chili amazing?
Comforting warmth: This chili wraps you in a cozy embrace, ideal for chilly nights.
Quick prep time: Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty without lengthy cooking.
Flavor-packed: The spicy turkey sausage adds a kick, while the kale enriches every bite, making it a vibrant and nutritious choice.
Versatile ingredients: Feel free to customize with whatever veggies or beans you have; it’s a great way to clean out your fridge!
Crowd-pleaser: This dish appeals to everyone, from spice lovers to families wanting a simple dinner solution. Plus, serve it with a dollop of sour cream for a deliciously creamy finish!
Spicy Turkey Sausage & Kale Chili Ingredients
For the Base
- Extra-virgin olive oil – Adds richness and moisture; consider using avocado oil for a neutral flavor.
- Ground spicy turkey sausage – Provides protein and a spicy kick; substitute with ground chicken for a milder flavor.
- Large yellow onion – Adds sweetness and depth; can be replaced with shallots for a more delicate taste.
- Red bell pepper – Contributes sweetness and color; swap with green bell pepper for a more earthy flavor.
- Cloves garlic – Boosts aroma and flavor; use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
For Spices
- Chili powder – Adds warmth and spice; adjust quantity according to your heat preference in this spicy turkey sausage & kale chili.
- Cayenne pepper – Enhances spiciness; omit if you prefer a milder chili.
- Dried oregano – Adds herbal notes; fresh oregano can be substituted if available.
- Kosher salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust according to taste.
For the Soup
- Tomato paste – Provides depth and richness; tomato sauce can be a substitute but adjust the quantity.
- Low-sodium chicken broth – Acts as the soup base; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
- Cannellini beans (15-oz. can) – Add creaminess and texture; replace with black beans for a different flavor profile.
- Diced tomatoes (15-oz. can) – Contribute acidity and sweetness; use fresh tomatoes for a fresher taste.
- Tuscan kale – Adds nutrients and texture; any kale variety or spinach can be used as substitutes.
For Serving
- Sour cream (optional for topping) – Adds creaminess to balance the spice; Greek yogurt is a healthy alternative.
How to Make Spicy Turkey Sausage & Kale Chili
-
Heat the Oil: In a large pot, warm up the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until shimmering, setting the stage for a flavor-packed chili.
-
Sauté the Onions: Add in the chopped large yellow onion and sauté until they become translucent, around 4-5 minutes. This step enriches the base of your chili.
-
Add Bell Pepper and Garlic: Stir in the diced red bell pepper and minced cloves of garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
-
Brown the Sausage: Introduce the ground spicy turkey sausage to the pot, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, roughly 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
-
Mix in the Spices: Sprinkle the chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and dried oregano over the mixture. Season with kosher salt to taste, stirring well to coat everything in spice and warmth.
-
Incorporate the Tomato Paste: Add the tomato paste, and stir until it’s evenly distributed through the mixture. This adds a rich depth of flavor to your chili.
-
Pour in the Broth and Beans: Carefully pour in the low-sodium chicken broth along with the rinsed cannellini beans and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a lively simmer.
-
Add the Kale: Once simmering, fold in the Tuscan kale and let it cook until tender, about 5 minutes. This vibrant green adds not just nutrition, but also color to your chili.
-
Serve Warm: Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot. If desired, top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess and flavor.
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or avocado slices for a lovely finishing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Spicy Turkey Sausage & Kale Chili components are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during hectic weeks! You can chop the onions, bell peppers, and garlic up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can brown the turkey sausage and cool it completely before refrigerating for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy your chili, simply reheat the sausage in a pot, add the prepped vegetables, tomato paste, broth, and beans, and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the kale, and you’ll have a hearty, flavorful meal just as delicious as if you had made it from scratch that same day!
Spicy Turkey Sausage & Kale Chili Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity with this chili, customizing flavors and ingredients to your heart’s content!
- Beefy Twist: Substitute turkey sausage with ground beef for a richer and heartier flavor profile.
- Veggie Boost: Add diced zucchini or carrots to increase the vegetable content and add subtle sweetness.
- Vegetarian Delight: Omit the sausage altogether and replace it with extra beans or lentils for a protein-packed vegetarian option.
- Spicy Upgrade: Mix in some jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to turn up the heat for spice lovers.
- Herb Infusion: Swap dried oregano for fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of vibrant flavor.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a silky texture and rich taste.
- Tasty Toppings: Experiment with toppings like shredded cheese, diced avocado, or even a squeeze of lime for freshness.
- Cultural Fusion: Incorporate corn or black beans to give it a Southwestern twist, providing a delightful flavor contrast.
No matter how you choose to adapt this chili, the warmth and heartiness will always make it a standout dish on cozy nights in!
How to Store and Freeze Spicy Turkey Sausage & Kale Chili
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days, ensuring the flavors remain fresh and vibrant.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chili in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months; be sure to label it with the date for easy tracking.
- Thawing: To enjoy your frozen spicy turkey sausage & kale chili, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.
What to Serve with Spicy Turkey Sausage & Kale Chili?
There’s nothing quite like complementing your comforting chili with delicious side dishes to elevate your meal.
-
Crusty Bread: Ideal for dipping, a rustic bread perfectly soaks up the leftover chili, offering a satisfying bite.
-
Creamy Polenta: The smooth texture of polenta balances the spice of the chili, creating a wonderfully rich experience. It’s an Italian nod that marries beautifully with the flavors.
-
Cornbread: Sweet, fluffy cornbread adds a contrast to the warmth of your chili, making every spoonful a delightful experience.
-
Grilled Avocado Salad: Fresh greens with grilled avocado provide a refreshing crunch, enhancing the overall texture of your meal.
-
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top of your chili adds creaminess, cutting through the heat and enhancing each bite.
-
Spicy Nachos: Crisp tortilla chips topped with cheese and jalapeños bring a fun and crunchy element, perfect for sharing!
Expert Tips for Spicy Turkey Sausage & Kale Chili
-
Simmer for Flavor: Allowing your chili to simmer longer enhances depth and melds the spices beautifully.
-
Watch the Heat: Be cautious with cayenne pepper; small increments can elevate flavor without overpowering the dish with heat.
-
Beans 101: Rinse and drain your cannellini beans well to avoid excess sodium and ensure a cleaner taste in your spicy turkey sausage & kale chili.
-
Customize Freely: Don’t hesitate to swap out ingredients based on what you have. Substituting veggies or beans can elevate your chili experience!
-
Storing Leftovers: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months for a quick future meal.
-
Perfect Pairings: Serve with freshly chopped cilantro or avocado slices as a delightful garnish that adds freshness and texture.
Spicy Turkey Sausage & Kale Chili Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right turkey sausage for this chili?
Absolutely! Look for ground spicy turkey sausage that has a good fat content (around 10-15%); this ensures a juicy and flavorful chili. Avoid any that look overly lean, as they can dry out during cooking. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can opt for mild turkey sausage and easily amp up the flavor with chili powder and cayenne pepper to your liking!
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
For optimal freshness, store any leftover spicy turkey sausage & kale chili in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for about 5 days. If you feel the flavors begin to wane, consider freezing it for longer storage.
Can I freeze chili, and if so, how?
Very! Freezing chili is a great way to ensure you have a hearty meal on hand. To freeze, allow the chili to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion. Seal tightly and label it with the date. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
What if my chili is too spicy?
No worries! If your spicy turkey sausage & kale chili turns out too spicy, you can adjust it by adding more low-sodium chicken broth or a cup of canned coconut milk, which will help mellow the heat. Stir in more diced tomatoes or even a bit of sugar to balance the spice. You can also serve it with a generous dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to cool things down!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using lean ground turkey and low-sodium broth to create a healthier version. For those with garlic allergies, you can use a garlic substitute or omit it altogether. If you want to make it vegetarian, feel free to replace the turkey sausage with lentils or extra beans, and use vegetable broth for the base.
How can I tell if my beans are fresh enough?
Great question! When selecting canned beans, check the expiration date, and avoid any cans that are bulging or have dark spots. Fresh beans should have a uniform color and their liquid should look clear, not cloudy. Always rinse and drain canned beans before adding them to your chili to remove excess sodium and improve flavor.
Spicy Turkey Sausage & Kale Chili for Cozy Nights In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until shimmering.
- Add the chopped yellow onion and sauté until translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced red bell pepper and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Introduce the ground spicy turkey sausage and cook until browned, roughly 5-7 minutes.
- Sprinkle the chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and dried oregano. Add kosher salt to taste.
- Add the tomato paste, stirring until evenly distributed.
- Pour in the chicken broth, rinsed cannellini beans, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
- Fold in the Tuscan kale and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot, optionally topped with sour cream or Greek yogurt.