Looking for a cozy, hearty meal that combines bold Mexican flavors with the comfort of a classic chili? Look no further! This chili recipe with enchilada sauce and ground beef is a game-changer for lunch, weeknight dinners or a crowd-pleasing gathering. Imagine the rich, smoky taste of enchilada sauce mingling with tender ground beef, beans, and vibrant spices—all simmered to perfection in one pot.
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or need a quick dinner idea, this dish brings warmth and flavor to the table. It’s simple to prepare, incredibly versatile, and ideal for busy cooks who crave big taste without a lot of fuss. With minimal effort and ingredients you likely already have, you’ll whip up a dish that tastes like it’s straight out of your favorite Tex-Mex restaurant. Let’s dive into this deliciously satisfying creation!
Table of Contents
Recipe Overview
This chili recipe with enchilada sauce and ground beef is a delightful twist on traditional chili that brings a zesty Tex-Mex flair to your table. It’s the perfect blend of hearty ground beef, smoky enchilada sauce, and classic chili ingredients like beans, tomatoes, and spices. The result? A thick, flavorful chili with just the right amount of heat and tanginess.
In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a comforting, one-pot meal that’s ideal for any occasion—whether you’re cozying up on a chilly night or feeding a crowd at a potluck. The recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the spice level or toss in extra veggies to suit your preferences. Serve it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a dollop of sour cream for the ultimate comfort food experience. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this bold and satisfying chili.
Ingredients Needed for the Chili Recipe
To whip up this mouthwatering chili recipe with enchilada sauce and ground beef, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- Ground Beef (1 pound): The foundation of this hearty dish, offering a rich and meaty texture.
- Enchilada Sauce (1 cup): Adds a smoky, tangy depth of flavor that sets this chili apart from the rest.
- Black Beans (1 can, drained and rinsed): Brings fiber and a creamy texture to the chili.
- Diced Tomatoes (1 can): Enhances the dish with a fresh, slightly acidic bite.
- Onion (1, diced): A classic base for building flavor.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds a fragrant and savory touch.
Seasonings and Extras:
- Chili Powder (2 tsp): The star spice that gives chili its signature warmth.
- Cumin (1 tsp): Provides a nutty, earthy undertone.
- Paprika (1 tsp): For a hint of smokiness.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): To enhance all the flavors.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp): For sautéing.
These simple yet flavorful ingredients come together to create a bowl of pure comfort.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make the best chili recipe with enchilada sauce and ground beef that’s full of bold flavors:
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, dice the onion, mince the garlic, and gather all your ingredients. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking process and helps you avoid missing anything essential.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is warmed, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and release their aroma. This step helps develop the rich flavor base for your chili.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pot with the onions and garlic. Cook until it’s fully browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess grease to keep your child from becoming too oily.
Step 4: Add the Enchilada Sauce and Seasonings
Pour in the enchilada sauce, followed by the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, making sure the spices coat the meat evenly. This step infuses the ground beef with rich, smoky Tex-Mex flavors.
Step 5: Incorporate the Tomatoes and Beans (50 mots)
Add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices) and black beans to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Step 6: Simmer to Perfection
Lower the heat and let the chili simmer for 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally and allow the flavors to blend together. The longer it simmers, the richer the taste becomes, so don’t rush this step!
Step 7: Adjust and Serve
Sample the chili and tweak the seasonings by adding more salt, pepper, or spices to taste. Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, or chopped cilantro. Serve hot with tortilla chips or cornbread for the ultimate meal.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Chili
Making a chili recipe with enchilada sauce and ground beef is straightforward, but these cooking tips will ensure your chili turns out perfectly every time:
Use lean ground beef: For a less greasy chili, opt for lean ground beef (about 85% lean). If you prefer a richer flavor, you can also use ground turkey or ground chicken as a healthier alternative.
Sauté the onions and garlic well: This is the foundation of your chili’s flavor. Don’t rush this step—cook them until they’re soft and slightly golden. This brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall taste of the chili.
Adjust the spice level: The amount of chili powder and paprika you use can be adjusted depending on how spicy you like your chili. For extra heat, consider adding a finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Let it simmer: Don’t be tempted to skip the simmering time. Allowing the chili to simmer for at least 15 minutes helps the flavors develop and blend together. The longer it simmers, the better the flavor, so feel free to let it cook for up to 30 minutes if you have the time.
Add toppings for variety: Toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, fresh cilantro, or even jalapeño slices can take your chili to the next level. They add texture and a burst of freshness to balance the richness of the chili.
Make it ahead of time: Chili often tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. If you can, make your chili a day in advance and store it in the fridge.
Why This Chili Recipe is a Must-Have Dish
This chili recipe with enchilada sauce and ground beef is a must-have dish for several reasons. First, it brings a perfect balance of flavors—tender ground beef, hearty beans, and smoky enchilada sauce blend together in a way that makes every bite unforgettable. The rich and spicy seasoning adds just the right amount of heat, while the enchilada sauce gives it a unique, tangy twist you won’t find in traditional chili recipes.
Another reason this chili stands out is its versatility. Whether you like it spicier or prefer a milder taste, this chili can be adjusted to suit everyone’s taste buds. You can even swap out ingredients, such as using ground turkey for a leaner option or adding extra veggies for a more colorful, nutrient-packed dish.
Moreover, this chili is incredibly easy to make. It requires just one pot and minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need to feed a crowd. Plus, it’s an affordable meal that stretches far, making it a budget-friendly choice for families or gatherings. Serve it with your favorite sides, like cornbread or tortilla chips, and you’ll have a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will love.
This chili is not just a meal—it’s a crowd-pleaser, a time-saver, and a guaranteed hit every time.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about this chili recipe with enchilada sauce and ground beef is how easily it can be customized to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, or what you have in your pantry. Here are some fun ways to make this recipe your own:
Vegetarian Version: If you want to make this dish vegetarian, simply swap the ground beef for plant-based ground meat or extra beans. You can use a mix of black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas to keep the chili hearty and filling. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes for a more nutrient-packed dish.
Add More Heat: For those who love spicy food, consider adding jalapeños, green chilies, or even a dash of hot sauce to the chili. You can also use a spicier enchilada sauce to really turn up the heat and make it more exciting.
Low-Carb Option: To reduce carbs, skip the beans and serve the chili over cauliflower rice or with a side of sautéed greens. This keeps the dish filling while lowering the carb count, making it great for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet.
Swap the Meat: If you’re not a fan of ground beef, try ground turkey, chicken, or even a combination of ground pork and beef for a different flavor profile. Ground sausage can also add a rich, savory element to the chili.
Toppings Galore: Elevate your chili with an array of delicious toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, or crispy tortilla strips. You can also add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness.
This chili recipe is incredibly versatile and easily adapted to different dietary needs and personal preferences!
Nutritional Information for the Chili Recipe
This chili, made with enchilada sauce and ground beef, delivers a filling and nutrient-packed meal, rich in protein, fiber, and vital vitamins. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (assuming 6 servings):
- Calories: 350–400 kcal
- Protein: 25–30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25–30 grams
- Fiber: 6–8 grams
- Fat: 15–20 grams
- Sodium: 600–800 mg (depending on the salt and enchilada sauce used)
Health Benefits:
- Ground Beef provides a great source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, essential for muscle maintenance and overall health.
- Black Beans add fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
- Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which supports heart health and reduces inflammation.
- Spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika not only enhance the flavor but also offer anti-inflammatory benefits.
For a lighter version, feel free to swap in leaner ground meat or omit the beans for a lower-carb option. This chili offers both hearty satisfaction and nutritional value in every bowl!
Frequently Asked Questions About the Chili Recipe
Here are some common questions about this chili recipe with enchilada sauce and ground beef, answered to help you get the best results:
Can I make this chili ahead of time? You can make it in advance, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for meal prepping or making for a gathering.
Can I freeze this chili? Absolutely! This chili freezes well. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe? Yes, you can! After sautéing the onions and garlic, brown the ground beef and then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours for a delicious, simmered flavor.
Can I make this chili spicier? Yes! Add extra jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to suit your taste. Adjust the heat until it’s just the way you like it!
Serving Ideas for the Chili Recipe
This chili recipe with enchilada sauce and ground beef is so versatile when it comes to serving ideas.:
With Cornbread: A classic pairing, cornbread’s slight sweetness complements the spicy, savory chili. Serve a warm slice on the side to make the meal extra comforting.
Topped with Cheese and Sour Cream: Garnish each bowl with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an added layer of flavor and creaminess.
On Top of Rice or Quinoa: For a more filling meal, serve the chili over a bed of steamed rice, brown rice, or quinoa. These grains add texture and make the dish even heartier.
With Tortilla Chips: For a fun and crunchy twist, serve chili with crispy tortilla chips or nachos. You can even melt cheese on the chips for a mini chili nacho bowl!
As a Burrito Filling: Use this chili as a filling for burritos. Just add some rice, cheese, and guacamole for a complete meal wrapped in a tortilla.
These serving ideas will make your chili even more enjoyable, no matter the occasion!
Fun Facts About the Chili Recipe
Did you know that chili has a fascinating history? While it’s often associated with Tex-Mex cuisine, its origins are actually much older and stretch far beyond the United States. Some food historians believe that chili traces its roots back to indigenous tribes in the Americas, who created dishes with chili peppers, meat, and beans long before European settlers arrived. In fact, the Spanish word “chile” refers to the pepper itself, which was a staple in many ancient cultures.
The modern chili we know and love today, especially with the addition of enchilada sauce like in this recipe, is a product of Texan and Mexican fusion. The dish gained popularity in the 19th century, with people in the American Southwest incorporating beef, beans, and chili peppers into hearty stews to feed large crowds. In fact, chili has become so beloved that it even has its own National Chili Day, celebrated every February in the United States!
This chili recipe with enchilada sauce and ground beef is a modern spin on an ancient dish that’s been enjoyed for centuries, bringing rich flavors and comforting warmth to kitchens everywhere.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chili recipe with enchilada sauce and ground beef is the perfect blend of rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and easy preparation—making it an absolute winner for any meal. The smoky, tangy enchilada sauce adds a unique twist to the traditional chili, while the ground beef provides a satisfying, meaty base. Every spoonful offers the perfect balance of warmth and spice, creating a dish that will quickly become a favorite in your household.
What makes this recipe even better is its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a quick and comforting dinner, this chili can be easily adjusted to suit any taste or dietary need. Plus, it’s simple to make, uses affordable ingredients, and can be prepped ahead of time for those busy days.
From cozy nights to family gatherings, this chili is guaranteed to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. It’s not just a meal; it’s a dish that brings people together.
Conclusion
So, are you ready to dig into the ultimate bowl of chili with enchilada sauce and ground beef? Whether you serve it with cornbread, tortilla chips, or just a sprinkle of cheese, this dish is guaranteed to keep you coming back for more. It’s easy, comforting, and packed with bold flavors that will satisfy your taste buds every time. Don’t forget to share it with your friends and family… or just keep it all to yourself. After all, no one’s judging if you eat it all alone!
Now, let’s get cooking! Enjoy the chili, and feel free to experiment with the toppings or add-ins—you’re the chef, after all!