Cheesy Ground Beef Enchilada Chili is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines the rich tastes of enchiladas with the warmth and heartiness of chili. It’s perfect for cozy nights and makes a filling meal. The addition of cheese makes it extra creamy and satisfying. Here’s a simple recipe to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed (or use pinto beans)
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (optional for extra heat)
- 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for topping)
- Chopped cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Tortilla chips (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the diced onion to the pot with the beef, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Enchilada Sauce and Beans:
- Stir in the red enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes (with juices), black beans, and kidney beans (or pinto beans).
- Add the green chilies (if using), and then pour in the beef broth. Stir well to combine.
4. Season the Chili:
- Add the taco seasoning, ground cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are evenly coated in the seasoning.
- Bring the chili to a simmer, and let it cook uncovered for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally.
5. Add the Cheese:
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese (reserve a bit for topping), and allow it to melt into the chili, making it creamy and cheesy.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve:
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Optionally, add a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for freshness.
- Serve with tortilla chips on the side or crumble some over the chili for extra crunch.
Tips:
- Add Spice: If you like your chili spicier, you can add jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix.
- Substitute Ground Beef: You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a leaner option.
- Make it Vegetarian: Skip the ground beef and use extra beans (such as black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas) for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Top with Extras: You can also add toppings like sliced avocado, sliced green onions, or shredded lettuce for extra flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this Cheesy Ground Beef Enchilada Chili with a side of cornbread or warm flour tortillas to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Pair it with a simple salad for balance, or enjoy it on its own for a filling meal.
This hearty, cheesy chili is sure to warm you up and satisfy your cravings. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Let me know if you’d like more variations or tips! Enjoy