This Cheesy Ground Beef Enchilada Chili is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with savory ground beef, enchilada sauce, and lots of melted cheese, it’s perfect for cozy nights.
It’s super easy to whip up, and I love serving it with some crunchy tortilla chips on the side. Honestly, who can resist that gooey cheese? It’s comfort food at its finest! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef to keep it a bit healthier, but you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want to go vegetarian, crumbled tofu or lentils can work great!
Onion & Garlic: They add a lot of flavor. If you’re short on time, you could use onion powder (1 tsp) and garlic powder (1/2 tsp) instead. Fresh herbs like cilantro can add a nice twist, too!
Diced Tomatoes: If you want a spicier kick, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes instead. It brings a smoky flavor that pairs nicely with the chili!
Enchilada Sauce: Can’t find enchilada sauce? You can make a quick one by blending tomato sauce with chili powder and cumin. It works in a pinch!
Beans: Kidney beans are great, but feel free to use black beans or pinto beans based on your taste or what you have on hand. They all add some nice creaminess.
How Do I Make My Chili Rich and Flavorful?
To make your chili really stand out, focus on building layers of flavor! Brown the beef well and let the onions and garlic cook until soft—that’s where all the goodness starts. Season early and let it simmer so everything can meld together.
- Cook the beef thoroughly until browned to develop flavor.
- Sauté the onion and garlic until they’re soft and aromatic.
- Simmer the chili on low heat to allow the spices to blend beautifully.
- Don’t skip adding cheese at the end! It makes everything creamy and satisfying.
Gather your toppings and enjoy customizing each bowl with sour cream and fresh herbs—this chili is all about personal touches!
Cheesy Ground Beef Enchilada Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for garnish)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful chili takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total of around 40 minutes. It’s a quick and easy recipe perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat from the pot to keep the chili from being greasy.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This is where the aroma starts to fill your kitchen!
3. Mix in the Sauces:
Pour in the red enchilada sauce, drained diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and beef broth into the pot. Stir everything together so it’s well combined.
4. Season It Up:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, along with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir; these spices are going to add depth and flavor to your chili!
5. Let it Simmer:
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it cook gently for about 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to help meld all the flavors together. The longer it simmers, the better it gets!
6. Add the Cheese:
Right before serving, stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and combines into the chili. This step adds a delightful creamy texture!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the chili into bowls, and top each one with the remaining cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro for color and flavor!
8. Enjoy:
Serve your cheesy ground beef enchilada chili hot and enjoy it! Pair it with tortilla chips for an extra crunch and a satisfying meal.
This chili is comforting and full of flavor—perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a little warmth! Enjoy every hearty scoop!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. It will change the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious. Just be sure to season it well, as turkey tends to be milder in taste.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
If you want to make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with cooked lentils, black beans, or crumbled tofu. You can also add extra vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, for more texture and flavor!
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes, this chili freezes wonderfully! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What Are Good Toppings for This Chili?
There are plenty of delicious toppings to choose from! Besides sour cream, you can top it with avocado slices, jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or additional shredded cheese. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley also add a nice touch!
