All American Chili

This is a great hearty chili to feed the family. Great anytime.

• Ready In: 2 hrs 15 mins
• Serves: 12

Ingredients

• 1  lb  ground sirloin
• 1⁄2 lb hot Italian sausage
• 1  large onion, chopped
• 1  red bell pepper, chopped
• 8  garlic cloves, minced
• 1  jalapeno pepper, chopped
• 4  tablespoons chili powder
• 3  tablespoons brown sugar
• 1  tablespoon ground cumin
• 3  tablespoons tomato paste
• 1  teaspoon dried oregano
• 1⁄2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 2  bay leaves
• 1 1⁄4 cups  merlot (or beef broth)
• 2 (28 ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 (15 ounce) cans kidney beans, drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, drained
• 1⁄2 cup  shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-heat.
2. Remove casings from sausage.
3. Add sausage, onion, bell pepper, garlic, ground sirloin, and jalapeno to pan; cook 10-12 minutes or until sausage and beef are browned, stirring to crumble.
4. Add chili powder, brown sugar, cumin, tomato paste, oregano, pepper, salt, bay leaves, and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Stir in wine, tomatoes, kidney beans, and pinto beans; bring to boil.
6. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
7. Uncover and cook for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. Discard the bay leaves.
9. Sprinkle each serving with cheddar cheese.