Introduction:
Cheesy Enchilada Chili is a delightful fusion of two comfort foods—enchiladas and chili—creating a savory, cheesy, and spicy dish.
With hearty ground beef, bold flavors from enchilada sauce, and a gooey melted cheese topping, this chili offers the perfect balance of rich flavors.
It’s an easy one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.
Serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado, or tortilla chips for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 medium onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheeses)
1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for garnish)
Chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Tortilla chips (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat, if necessary.
Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, black beans, kidney beans, and corn. Mix well.
Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Let the chili simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Once the chili is ready, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, cover the pot, and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from heat and serve. Garnish with sour cream, cilantro, and tortilla chips, if desired.
Description: This Cheesy Enchilada Chili is an irresistible mix of bold Mexican-inspired flavors with the comfort of a warm chili. The enchilada sauce adds a tangy depth of flavor while the cheese melts into the chili, giving it a rich and creamy texture. The beans and corn provide a satisfying texture that complements the beef and vegetables. It’s hearty, comforting, and satisfying—perfect for family dinners or a crowd-pleasing meal.
Tips:
For extra heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chili.
If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer it longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
You can swap out the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
If you want to make it vegetarian, replace the ground beef with extra beans and maybe some plant-based crumbles or veggies.
For a creamier texture, add a bit of cream cheese or Mexican crema when stirring in the cheese.
Variations:
Chicken Enchilada Chili: Swap the ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken breast for a lighter alternative.
Spicy Enchilada Chili: Add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced green chilies for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Chili: Use more beans (black beans, pinto beans, or white beans) in place of the meat, and add in extra veggies like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms.
Cheesy Veggie Chili: Add extra cheese on top and mix in some roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or bell peppers for a hearty veggie-packed version.
Correction:
If your chili becomes too thick during cooking, simply add a bit of broth, water, or more enchilada sauce to reach your desired consistency.
For a more authentic flavor, feel free to use homemade enchilada sauce rather than canned.
Enjoy: Dig in and enjoy a delicious bowl of Cheesy Enchilada Chili! It’s the perfect meal to warm you up on a chilly evening, and the leftovers are just as tasty the next day. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy the savory, cheesy goodness with every bite!