Cheesy Enchilada Chili Recipe

Sizzling Cheesy Enchilada Chili Recipe That Warms Your Soul

Crafting the perfect cheesy enchilada chili requires more than just ingredients, it’s about creating comfort on a plate.

Warmth radiates from this hearty dish that combines bold Mexican-inspired flavors with creamy, melted goodness.

Spices dance through each bite, promising a culinary adventure that satisfies deep hunger.

Layers of rich, complex tastes tell a story of culinary passion and home-style cooking.

Peppers, beans, and cheese blend seamlessly in a symphony of deliciousness that makes mouths water.

Home cooks can easily master this recipe with a few simple techniques.

Dive into a bowl that promises to become your new favorite weeknight meal.

Cheesy Enchilada Chili That Warms the Soul

  • Savor Hearty Comfort: Dive into a rich, creamy chili packed with robust flavors that wrap you in a warm culinary hug.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap beans, adjust spice levels, or top with your favorite garnishes to make this recipe uniquely yours.
  • One-Pot Wonder: Minimal dishes and simple steps mean you'll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying a delicious meal.
  • Family Crowd-Pleaser: Guaranteed to satisfy everyone from picky eaters to adventurous food lovers with its cheesy, meaty goodness.

Ingredients for Cheesy Enchilada Chili

For the Meats:
  • Ground Beef: A hearty protein that forms the base of the chili and provides rich flavor.
For the Dairy and Sauce:
  • Salsa Con Queso, Sour Cream, Beef Broth, Chicken Broth: These ingredients create a creamy, flavorful liquid base that adds depth and richness to the chili.
For the Vegetables and Beans:
  • Green Chilis, Frozen Corn, Pinto Beans (or Black Beans): These add texture, sweetness, and additional protein to the chili, creating a well-rounded and satisfying dish.
For the Seasonings:
  • Taco Seasoning, Water: These enhance the overall flavor profile and help season the ground beef.
For the Optional Serving:
  • Tortilla Chips, Fritos: Provide a crunchy texture and additional flavor when served with the chili.

How to Make Rich and Spicy Chili

Step 1: Sizzle Savory Ground Beef

Heat a skillet over medium flame. Toss in the ground beef and cook until it transforms into a rich, golden-brown delight.

Tip out any extra grease to keep things lean and delicious.

Step 2: Spice Up the Meat

Sprinkle taco seasoning over the beef and splash in some water.

Let the meat dance and simmer until the liquid vanishes completely.

Step 3: Create the Chili Base

Slide the seasoned beef into a massive Dutch oven or hefty pot.

Pour in these flavor-packed ingredients:
  • Salsa con queso
  • Potato soup
  • Sour cream
  • Beef broth
  • Chicken broth

Whisk everything together until the sour cream melts into a creamy, dreamy blend.

Step 4: Load Up with Veggie Goodness

Stir in these colorful additions:
  • Diced green chilis
  • Frozen corn
  • Pinto beans (or black beans for variety)

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Crank up the heat until the mixture bubbles enthusiastically.

Immediately drop to a gentle simmer. Let the chili bubble softly, stirring occasionally to prevent any sneaky bottom-of-the-pot burning.

Step 6: Serve with Crunch

Ladle the steaming chili into bowls. Crush tortilla chips or Fritos on top for an irresistible crispy finish.

Dive in and enjoy the flavor explosion!

Tips for Balancing Cheese and Spice

  • Pat ground beef dry before browning to enhance caramelization and develop deeper taste.
  • Adjust taco seasoning or add red pepper flakes for more heat or milder preference.
  • Easily substitute pinto beans with black beans or kidney beans based on pantry availability.
  • Let chili simmer uncovered to reduce liquid and intensify flavors if mixture seems too thin.
  • Sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top just before serving for additional melty goodness.

Variations to Try with Your Chili

  • Bean-Free Blast: Skip beans entirely and add extra ground beef for a protein-packed chili with intense meaty flavor.
  • Veggie Power Chili: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or chopped bell peppers and zucchini for a vegetarian version that maintains rich taste.
  • Spicy Southwest Style: Add diced jalapeños, increase taco seasoning, and top with pepper jack cheese for a fiery, bold chili experience.
  • Creamy Ranch Remix: Stir in ranch seasoning mix and reduce sour cream amount for a tangy, creamy southwestern-inspired chili variation.

Pairing Suggestions for Chili Dishes

Savor the Flavor Companions: Perfect Pairings for Cheesy Enchilada Chili

  • Crisp Corona Refresh: Pair with a cold Corona beer to cut through the rich, cheesy chili. The light, crisp beer balances the hearty flavors and provides a refreshing contrast.
  • Zesty Lime Sidekick: Squeeze fresh lime wedges over the chili to brighten the dish. The citrusy tang adds a pop of acidity that enhances the depth of the meaty, cheesy mixture.
  • Cilantro Cornbread Crumble: Serve alongside homemade cilantro cornbread for a complementary texture. The slightly sweet, herb-infused bread soaks up the chili's delicious sauce and adds a comforting element to the meal.
  • Cool Sour Cream Swirl

Storage Tips for Chili Leftovers

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep chilled for 3-4 days in the refrigerator, ensuring the seal is tight to maintain freshness.
  • Transfer cooled chili to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air, seal properly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
  • Place desired portion in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap with a small vent. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.

FAQs

  • What makes this chili different from traditional chili?

This chili combines the flavors of enchiladas and chili, using salsa con queso and unique ingredients like potato soup to create a creamy, rich texture that sets it apart from classic chili recipes.

  • Can I make this recipe spicier?

Yes, you can add diced jalapeños, use hot salsa con queso, or include a dash of hot sauce to increase the heat level according to your preference.

  • Is this chili suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This chili freezes well and can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time and enjoying throughout the week.

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Cheesy Enchilada Chili Recipe

Cheesy Enchilada Chili Recipe


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4.7 from 29 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty Mexican-inspired Cheesy Enchilada Chili delivers bold southwestern flavors in one comforting bowl. Spicy ground beef, melted cheese, and rich tomato base promise a satisfying meal that brings festive warmth to hungry tables.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Proteins:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup pinto beans or black beans

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 1 can fire-roasted diced green chilis

Liquid and Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 jar Tostitos Salsa Con Queso
  • 1 can potato soup
  • 1 1/4 cups sour cream
  • 1 1/4 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • Tortilla chips or Fritos (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, thoroughly brown the ground beef, ensuring complete cooking and draining any excess fat.
  2. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the beef and add water, simmering until liquid completely evaporates and meat is well-coated.
  3. Transfer seasoned beef to a large Dutch oven or pot, creating the base for the chili.
  4. Pour in salsa con queso, potato soup, and sour cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth, creamy consistency.
  5. Incorporate beef and chicken broths, mixing thoroughly to develop a rich, layered flavor profile.
  6. Add diced green chilis, providing a subtle heat and vibrant flavor to the chili.
  7. Stir in frozen corn and pinto beans, enhancing texture and nutritional value.
  8. Raise temperature to bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, then immediately reduce heat to a gentle simmer.
  9. Allow chili to cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring periodically to prevent bottom scorching and ensure even heating.
  10. Ladle into serving bowls and accompany with crispy tortilla chips or Fritos for a satisfying crunch.

Notes

  • Drain ground beef thoroughly to prevent greasy texture and reduce unnecessary fat content.
  • Experiment with lean ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for healthier protein alternatives.
  • Consider using low-sodium broths and reduced-fat sour cream to make the chili more diet-friendly.
  • Customize heat levels by selecting mild or spicy salsa con queso and adjusting taco seasoning intensity.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 410 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 900 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 5 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Nate Harper

Nate Harper

Founder & Recipe Curator

Expertise

Single-Recipe Development, Farm-to-Table Cooking, Seasonal Menu Planning, Culinary Storytelling, Home Kitchen Innovation

Education

Cascade Culinary Institute – Central Oregon Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Focus: Farm-to-table cuisine, sustainable cooking practices, and seasonal recipe creation.

Nate studied under experienced chefs who emphasized local sourcing, minimal waste, and building recipes from fresh, simple ingredients.


Nate Harper is the founder and creative force behind Make, Take, Bake. Raised in the wild beauty of Oregon’s high desert, Nate grew up surrounded by family gardens, farmers’ markets, and home kitchens that celebrated the seasons.
His early love for simple, honest food evolved into a professional passion when he attended Cascade Culinary Institute, where he sharpened his skills in creating recipes that are sustainable, satisfying, and made for everyday life.
Nate’s goal is to make cooking feel accessible, free of fuss, and full of flavor. He believes a single, thoughtfully built dish can stand alone, and sometimes even steal the show.

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