Chili Recipe with Enchilada Sauce for the Best Tex-Mex Night

Key Benefits of This Chili Recipe with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef

Why should this recipe be your next go-to meal? Let me tell you!

• Bold Tex-Mex Flavors: The combination of enchilada sauce and ground beef creates a rich, smoky, and slightly spicy flavor profile that’s irresistible. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
• Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a hearty meal on the table in no time.
• One-Pot Wonder: Who doesn’t love fewer dishes? This chili comes together in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Versatile and Customizable: Whether you prefer it mild or spicy, with beans or without, this recipe can be tailored to suit your taste. It’s also great as a topping for nachos, a filling for enchiladas, or even served over rice.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This chili stores beautifully, making it an excellent option for leftovers or make-ahead meals. The flavors only get better with time!

This recipe isn’t just about cooking—it’s about creating a meal that brings people together. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this chili is guaranteed to impress. Ready to get started? Let’s gather those ingredients!

Ingredients for Ground Beef with Enchilada Sauce Chili Recipe

Let’s make sure you have everything you need before we start cooking. This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create a bold and flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef: The star of the dish, providing a hearty and savory base.
• 1 cup enchilada sauce: Adds a smoky, tangy kick that sets this chili apart.
• 1 small onion, diced: For a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Because every great chili starts with garlic!
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds a juicy, slightly tangy element to balance the spices.
• 1 can (14 oz) kidney beans or black beans (optional): For extra texture and protein.
• 1 cup beef broth: Helps create a rich, flavorful base for the chili.

Spices and Seasonings

• 2 tablespoons chili powder: The backbone of any chili recipe, bringing warmth and spice.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds an earthy, smoky undertone.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky flavor of the enchilada sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano: For a subtle herbal note.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing all the flavors.

Optional Toppings

• Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work great)
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Chopped cilantro
• Sliced jalapeños for extra heat
• Crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy finish

Pro Tip

If you like your chili thicker, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste or let it simmer a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Prefer a spicier kick? Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce!

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the fun part—cooking!

Instructions for Making Chili with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef

Let’s get cooking! This dish is easy to follow and suitable for both novice and experienced cooks. Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have a delicious, hearty chili ready in no time.

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Over medium heat, preheat a big saucepan or Dutch oven.
2. Add a drizzle of oil, then toss in the diced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent.
3. Cook for a further 30 seconds, or until aromatic, after adding the minced garlic.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Using a wooden spoon, break up the ground beef as it cooks after adding it to the saucepan.
2. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and no longer pink.
3. Drain any excess grease to keep the chili from becoming too oily.

Step 3: Add the Spices

1. Add the oregano, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well to coat the beef and onions in the spices, letting them toast for about 1 minute to enhance their flavors.

Step 4: Build the Base

1. Pour in the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and beef broth.
2. If you’re using beans, add them now. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Simmer the Chili

1. Reduce the heat to low after bringing the mixture to a mild boil.
2. Simmer the chili for 20 to 25 minutes with a lid on, stirring now and again. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
3. If you prefer a thicker chili, remove the lid during the last 5 minutes of cooking to let some of the liquid evaporate.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

1. Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or a dash of hot sauce if you like it spicier.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh cilantro.
2. Serve with a side of cornbread, tortilla chips, or even over rice for a complete meal.

Pro Tip

If you’re making this chili ahead of time, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. As the flavors develop the following day, it tastes even better!

Now that your kitchen smells amazing, it’s time to dig in and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Bon appétit!

Pro Tips and Variations for the Perfect Chili

Want to take your chili to the next level? Here are some expert tips and creative variations to make this recipe truly your own.

Pro Tips for Success

• Toast Your Spices: Before adding the liquid ingredients, let the spices toast in the pot for a minute. This step enhances their flavor and gives your chili a deeper, richer taste.
• Don’t Skip the Simmer: Allowing the chili to simmer for at least 20 minutes helps the flavors meld together beautifully. If you have extra time, let it simmer longer for an even more robust flavor.
• Adjust the Thickness: Prefer a thicker chili? Mash some of the beans with a fork or potato masher before adding them to the pot. Alternatively, let the chili simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid.
• Layer the Heat: If you like your chili spicy, add heat in layers. Start with chili powder, then add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños. Finish with a splash of hot sauce for a final kick.
• Make It Ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge overnight to let the flavors deepen.

Creative Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or diced mushrooms. Add extra beans or lentils for a hearty, meat-free version.
• Smoky Twist: Use chipotle chili powder or add a chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy kick.
• Cheesy Chili: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese at the end for a creamy, cheesy finish.
• Sweet and Spicy: Add a teaspoon of brown sugar or a splash of honey to balance the heat with a touch of sweetness.
• Tex-Mex Enchilada Style: Use this chili as a filling for enchiladas. Roll it up in tortillas, top with extra enchilada sauce and cheese, and bake until bubbly.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the beans and serve the chili over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly meal.

Pro Tip for Leftovers

Got leftovers? Use them creatively! This chili makes an excellent topping for baked potatoes, nachos, or even as a filling for stuffed bell peppers.

With these tips and variations, you can customize this chili recipe to suit your taste and make it a standout dish every time. Have fun experimenting and enjoy the process!

Serving Suggestions for Chili with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef

This chili is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and toppings. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a Tex-Mex-inspired gathering, these ideas will help you create a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable.

Classic Pairings

• Cornbread: A slice of warm, buttery cornbread is the perfect companion to soak up all the rich, flavorful chili.
• Tortilla Chips: Serve the chili with a side of crunchy tortilla chips for dipping or crumbling on top for added texture.
• Rice: Spoon the chili over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty, filling meal.

Topping Ideas

Elevate your chili with these delicious toppings:

• Shredded Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend melts beautifully over the warm chili.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the smoky flavors.
• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
• Sliced Jalapeños: Add a spicy kick with fresh or pickled jalapeño slices.
• Avocado or Guacamole: Creamy avocado slices or a scoop of guacamole bring a cool, buttery element to the dish.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty finish.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Chili Bar: Set up a DIY chili bar with bowls of toppings and sides, letting everyone customize their own bowl. This is a fun option for parties or family dinners.
• Loaded Baked Potatoes: Spoon the chili over baked potatoes and top with cheese, sour cream, and green onions for a comforting twist.
• Chili Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with chili, cheese, and your favorite toppings, then bake until bubbly for a crowd-pleasing snack.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use the chili as a filling for halved bell peppers, top with cheese, and bake until tender.

Pro Tip

If you’re serving this chili for a gathering, keep it warm in a slow cooker on the “low” setting. This way, guests can help themselves throughout the meal, and you can relax and enjoy the company!

No matter how you serve it, this chili is sure to be a hit. Pair it with your favorite sides and toppings, and watch it disappear from the table in no time!

Conclusion

There you have it—a hearty, flavorful chili recipe with enchilada sauce and ground beef that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. With its bold Tex-Mex flavors, easy preparation, and endless versatility, this dish is perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to game-day gatherings.

Whether you enjoy it as a comforting bowl of chili, a topping for nachos, or even as a filling for enchiladas, this recipe is as adaptable as it is delicious. Plus, the one-pot cooking method makes cleanup a breeze, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing dishes.

Cooking is all about bringing people together, and this chili does just that. It’s warm, satisfying, and packed with flavor—perfect for sharing with family and friends. So, grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and let the rich, smoky aroma fill your kitchen.

I’d love to hear how this recipe turned out for you! Did you try any of the variations or add your own twist? Share your experience in the comments below, and don’t forget to save this recipe for the next time you’re craving a comforting, Tex-Mex-inspired meal. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this chili recipe with enchilada sauce and ground beef, along with helpful answers to make your cooking experience even smoother.

If you have any other questions, feel free to ask in the comments. I’m here to help make your cooking experience as enjoyable as possible!