Best Chili Recipe with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef

If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor, this Chili Recipe with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef is exactly what you need. Combining the rich, spicy depth of enchilada sauce with tender ground beef and a medley of classic chili ingredients, this recipe creates a hearty dish that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a game-day gathering, this chili offers bold taste and satisfying texture in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor Fusion: The enchilada sauce adds a uniquely tangy and smoky twist that elevates traditional chili.
• Simple Ingredients: Basic pantry staples combine easily to create a complex and satisfying meal.
• Hearty and Filling: Ground beef and beans make this chili a protein-packed comfort food.
• Fast and Easy to Make: Ready from start to finish in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spices to suit your preferred spice level, from mild to fiery.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This chili recipe keeps things straightforward yet full of flavor, focusing on a few key elements that work harmoniously together. Each ingredient plays a vital role in balancing texture, color, and taste to deliver the ultimate bowl of chili.

• Ground Beef: Provides the hearty base with rich, savory depth.
• Enchilada Sauce: Adds a smoky, tangy complexity that’s central to this recipe’s flavor profile.
• Onion and Garlic: Classic aromatics that bring warmth and depth.
• Kidney Beans: For added texture and plant-based protein.
• Diced Tomatoes: Offer acidity and freshness to balance richness.
• Chili Powder and Cumin: Essential spices for that signature chili taste.
• Olive Oil: Helps sauté the aromatics and adds subtle fruitiness.
• Beef Broth: Creates the perfect consistency and enriches the flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing all other ingredients flawlessly.

Variations for Chili Recipe with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef

Feel free to personalize this chili recipe to fit your taste buds or dietary needs. The flexibility of the ingredients makes it easy to adapt and experiment with new flavors or textures.

• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with a mix of lentils and mushrooms for a meaty texture without meat.
• Extra Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
• Cheese Lover’s: Stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese before serving for creamy richness.
• Slow Cooker Option: Cook the chili low and slow for 6-8 hours to deepen the flavors.
• Beans Variety: Swap kidney beans with black beans or pinto beans for subtle differences in texture and taste.

How to Make Chili Recipe with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat to keep the chili from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, to build a flavorful base for the chili.

Step 3: Add Spices and Enchilada Sauce

Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour in the enchilada sauce and mix well, allowing the spices and sauce to combine for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 4: Mix in Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth

Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), kidney beans, and beef broth to the pot. Stir everything together to combine into a hearty mixture.

Step 5: Simmer the Chili

Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it gently cook for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to meld the flavors and thicken the chili.

Pro Tips for Making Chili Recipe with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef

• Use Quality Ground Beef: Choose 85% lean for the perfect balance of flavor and fat without excess grease.
• Don’t Skip Sautéing: Properly cooking onions and garlic first ensures the chili tastes rich and aromatic.
• Adjust Liquid as Needed: Add more beef broth for a thinner chili or simmer longer for a thicker consistency.
• Let It Rest: Chili tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.
• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for a fresh contrast.

How to Serve Chili Recipe with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef

Garnishes

Complete your bowl with classic toppings like shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to enhance brightness and creaminess.

Side Dishes

Serve with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad to balance this hearty dish with texture and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your chili into loaded nachos, chili-topped baked potatoes, or serve over rice or creamy polenta for a fun twist that everyone will enjoy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftover chili to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, allowing the flavors to develop even further.

Freezing

Chili freezes beautifully—portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat chili gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave in short bursts to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works well in this chili recipe with enchilada sauce and ground beef, offering a lighter yet flavorful option.

Is this chili spicy?

The base recipe is mildly spicy, but you can easily adjust the heat by increasing chili powder, adding jalapeños, or including hot sauce to suit your preference.

Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours for maximum flavor development.

What can I substitute for enchilada sauce?

If you don’t have enchilada sauce, a combination of tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, and a splash of vinegar can mimic its flavor profile in a pinch.

How do I make this gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free enchilada sauce and broth. Always check labels to ensure no hidden gluten ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This Chili Recipe with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef is a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for entertaining. With its bold flavors and comforting ingredients, giving this recipe a try will soon make it a favorite around your table. Warm yourself up with every spoonful today!

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