If you love bold, warming flavors with a bit of heat, this Spicy Turkey Sausage Non-Alcoholic Ale Chili delivers. It smells of toasted spices and garlic as it simmers. The turkey sausage gives the chili a meaty texture without heaviness. Beans add creamy bites and the non-alcoholic ale adds a mild sweetness and depth. If you want a small, spicy starter to pair with this chili, try a bright, zesty option like spicy chili garlic deviled eggs for a fun contrast.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
Estimated per serving (1 of 6):
- Calories per serving: 290 kcal
- Protein: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fat: 11 g
- Fiber: 10 g
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
Why Make This Spicy Turkey Sausage Non-Alcoholic Ale Chili
This chili is fast, satisfying, and full of flavor. It uses lean turkey sausage for a lighter protein and canned beans for hearty texture. The non-alcoholic ale adds a toasty, malty note that deepens the flavor without adding alcohol. The spice comes from chili powder and cumin, giving warmth and a bit of kick. It’s great for weeknights, game days, or when you want a big pot to share. The aroma while it simmers is savory and inviting, and the finished chili looks chunky and rich with red tomatoes and dark beans.
How to Make Spicy Turkey Sausage Non-Alcoholic Ale Chili
This chili is layered and simple. Prep your veg, brown the sausage, stir in spices, then simmer with beans, tomatoes, and ale until flavors meld. The steps below guide you through each stage to get balanced heat, good texture, and deep flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb spicy turkey sausage
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (12 oz) non-alcoholic ale
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Chop the onion and bell pepper. Mince the garlic. Drain and rinse the kidney and black beans. Open the diced tomatoes and the non-alcoholic ale so everything is ready.
Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for about 5–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and smell sweet. This step builds flavor and softens the veg.
Step 3: Browning the Sausage and Spicing
Push the vegetables to the side and add the spicy turkey sausage to the pot. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper so the spices toast briefly and coat the meat and veg. This releases the spice oils and deepens the aroma.
Step 4: Simmering and Finishing
Add the diced tomatoes, drained beans, and non-alcoholic ale to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra chili powder. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
How to Serve Spicy Turkey Sausage Non-Alcoholic Ale Chili
Serve the chili in bowls while hot. Top with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, or avocado. A squeeze of lime brightens the flavors. For a crunchy contrast, add tortilla chips or cornbread on the side. It works well for casual dinners, potlucks, or game day spreads.
How to Store Spicy Turkey Sausage Non-Alcoholic Ale Chili
- Refrigerator: Cool completely, transfer to an airtight container, and store for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered dish. If too thick after storing, add a splash of water or broth while reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Spicy Turkey Sausage Non-Alcoholic Ale Chili
- Taste as you go. Canned ingredients vary in salt; adjust seasoning at the end.
- Brown the sausage well. Browning adds caramelized flavor and depth.
- Let it simmer. A longer, gentle simmer melds flavors and improves texture.
- Use low-sodium canned beans and tomatoes if you want better control of sodium.
- For thicker chili, simmer uncovered until it reduces. For thinner chili, add a splash of broth or water.
- If you prefer less heat, use mild turkey sausage or reduce chili powder to 1 tbsp.
- To boost umami, add a teaspoon of tomato paste during the spicing step.
- If you don’t have non-alcoholic ale, use low-sodium chicken broth for a similar depth.
Delicious Variations
- Turkey Sausage and Kale: Stir in chopped kale during the last 10 minutes of simmering for a green boost.
- Smoky Chipotle: Add 1–2 minced chipotle peppers in adobo for smoky heat.
- Veggie Boost: Add diced carrots and celery with the onion for extra texture.
- Gluten-Free: Check sausage and ale labels; most ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but verify to be safe.
- Beef Swap: Use ground beef or turkey instead of spicy turkey sausage for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
A: Yes. Brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours. Add delicate herbs near the end.
Q: How can I reduce the sodium?
A: Use low-sodium or no-salt-added canned beans and tomatoes. Choose a low-sodium or no-sodium turkey sausage, or rinse regular canned beans thoroughly. Taste before adding salt.
Q: Is non-alcoholic ale necessary?
A: No. It adds maltiness and depth but you can substitute low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth. The flavor will be slightly different but still rich.
Q: Can I make this chili vegetarian?
A: Yes. Replace the turkey sausage with a plant-based sausage or extra beans and mushrooms. Sauté mushrooms to add meaty texture.
Q: How do I reheat leftover chili without drying it out?
A: Reheat on low heat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth. Stir frequently. In the microwave, cover and heat in short intervals, stirring between sessions.
Q: Can I thicken the chili without simmering longer?
A: Yes. Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir into the simmering chili. Cook a few minutes until thickened. Alternatively, mash a cup of the beans and stir back in.
Conclusion
This Spicy Turkey Sausage Non-Alcoholic Ale Chili is a warm, savory bowl that balances heat, texture, and depth. It’s simple to make, great for feeding a group, and easy to adapt. For another tasty turkey sausage twist, see this Spicy Turkey Sausage and Kale Chili | DeCA recipe to inspire more cozy meals. Give this chili a try—you’ll enjoy the spicy aroma and hearty, satisfying bites.
Print
Spicy Turkey Sausage Non-Alcoholic Ale Chili
- Total Time: 55
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty chili with spicy turkey sausage, beans, and a touch of non-alcoholic ale for added depth and sweetness.
Ingredients
- 1 lb spicy turkey sausage
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (12 oz) non-alcoholic ale
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Chop the onion and bell pepper, and mince the garlic.
- Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for about 5–8 minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Push the vegetables to the side and add the spicy turkey sausage. Cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes, then stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Add the diced tomatoes, drained beans, and non-alcoholic ale to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with desired toppings.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, replace turkey sausage with plant-based sausage or more beans.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 40
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
