This Cheesy Ground Beef Enchilada Chili is a hearty delight! With tender beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and loads of melted cheese, it’s a cozy bowl of goodness.
You might want to keep some tortilla chips nearby because this chili is perfect for dipping! I love making a big pot so I can enjoy it all week long—it’s just that good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the chili. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or black beans for protein instead!
Red Enchilada Sauce: The enchilada sauce adds a punch of flavor. If you don’t have any, you can use salsa or a mix of tomato sauce with taco seasoning as a substitute.
Black Beans: These add texture and fiber. If you want to keep it simpler, you can omit them or use pinto beans instead!
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cheese or leave it out entirely for a lighter chili.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro enhances the taste but can be swapped with parsley for a milder flavor or omitted for a different taste profile.
How Do I Make Sure My Chili is Nice and Creamy?
To achieve that creamy texture in your chili, it’s all about how you blend the cheese and sour cream. Here’s how to do it right:
- Once your chili is simmering and flavorful, turn off the heat before adding cheese and sour cream. This prevents them from clumping or separating.
- Stir the shredded cheddar cheese into the hot chili, letting it melt slowly.
- Add in sour cream gradually, stirring well to combine for silky smoothness.
Always taste and adjust seasonings to make sure your chili shines!
Cheesy Ground Beef Enchilada Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) can red enchilada sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 medium tomato, diced (for garnish)
- Tortilla chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chili takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to cook. So in total, you’re looking at around 35-40 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick dinner that feels like a treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. If there’s any excess fat, carefully drain it off.
2. Add the Aromatics:
Throw in the diced onion and sauté together with the beef. Let it cook for about 4-5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and stir it in for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Spice it Up:
Time to add some flavor! Stir in ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook this mixture for about 30 seconds to release the spices’ delightful aromas.
4. Pour in the Sauces:
Now, pour in the red enchilada sauce and beef broth. Stir everything together well to combine the flavors.
5. Add Black Beans (Optional):
If you’re using black beans, add them to the pot now and give it a good mix to integrate everything.
6. Simmer the Chili:
Bring your chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat. Allow it to cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Make it Creamy:
Once it’s simmered, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until everything is melted and creamy. It should look luscious!
8. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your chili. Add more salt, pepper, or spices as needed to suit your preference.
9. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the chili hot in bowls, garnished with extra cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, diced tomatoes, and chopped cilantro for a fresh finish.
10. Enjoy!
Pair your chili with crunchy tortilla chips for dipping. Enjoy every comforting, cheesy, and flavorful bite!
This rich and creamy chili is packed with bold enchilada flavors, tender beef, and melty cheese — perfect for cozy dinners or game day!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef for Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the protein is fully cooked.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you want an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when you add the spices. You can also top it with spicy salsa for an added heat boost.
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes, this chili freezes beautifully! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore its creamy texture.
Can I Prepare This Chili in a Slow Cooker?
Definitely! Brown the meat and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until heated through and flavors melded. Stir in cheese and sour cream just before serving!