Cheesy Enchilada Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s as warm and comforting as a snuggly blanket on a chilly day, this Cheesy Enchilada Chili Recipe is just what you need. It’s got the bold, fiesta-worthy flavors of enchiladas, wrapped up in a hearty, satisfying chili that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Cheesy Delight: The combination of salsa con queso and sour cream gives this chili a creamy, rich texture.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal.
  • Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to your taste with taco seasoning and chilies.
  • Versatile Ingredients: Swap out proteins and beans to suit what you have on hand.
Cheesy Enchilada Chili Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cheesy Enchilada Chili Recipe is how it marries pantry staples with fresh flavors to create something magical. Each ingredient plays its part to craft a symphony of taste and texture that’s sure to become a family favorite.

  • Ground Beef: Provides a robust, meaty flavor and a hearty base to the chili. Swap with ground turkey for a leaner option!
  • Taco Seasoning: Adds that quintessential Mexican spice blend that makes the chili pop!
  • Salsa Con Queso: This cheese-infused salsa delivers a creamy, cheesy punch that melds beautifully with the other ingredients.
  • Fire-Roasted Diced Green Chilies: These chilies offer a mild heat and smoky flavor.
  • Pinto or Black Beans: Adds fiber and texture, not to mention a delicious earthy taste.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the best parts about the Cheesy Enchilada Chili Recipe is its flexibility. Whether you’re tweaking it to cater to dietary restrictions or just craving something different, this chili is accommodating to say the least!

  • Meat Lovers: Add bacon crumbles or sausage for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Vegetarian Version: Skip the beef and use more beans or add mushrooms for a meaty texture without the meat.

How to Make Cheesy Enchilada Chili Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. This step is essential for building flavor. If there’s excess fat, go ahead and drain it off to keep the chili from getting greasy.

Step 2: Season the Beef

Add the taco seasoning and water to the browned beef, stirring well. Cook until the water is absorbed, ensuring every bite of beef is packed with that magical taco flavor.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Transfer the seasoned beef to a large pot. Stir in the salsa con queso, potato soup, sour cream, and both broths. Mix until everything is well combined, and the sour cream has melted smoothly into the mixture.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the fire-roasted diced green chilies, corn, and your choice of pinto or black beans. This is where the chili starts to take on its signature texture and colorful appearance.

Step 5: Heat Through

Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it bubble gently as it heats through, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Stir occasionally, and serve once everything is nice and hot.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Enchilada Chili Recipe

  • Cheese Control: Balance the amount of salsa con queso if you prefer a thicker or thinner consistency.
  • Simmer to Perfection: Let the chili simmer longer for deeper flavors if you have the time.
  • Spice to Taste: Start with less taco seasoning and add more if desired to suit your spice preference.
  • Flavor Boost: A dash of lime juice added before serving punches up the freshness.

How to Serve Cheesy Enchilada Chili Recipe

Cheesy Enchilada Chili Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Top your chili with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar for extra cheesiness, a dollop of sour cream for tang, and a handful of chopped cilantro for a fresh pop of color.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside warm, crusty bread or a pile of crispy tortilla chips. A side salad with a zesty lime dressing can also lighten up the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the chili in a bread bowl for a fun, edible container. You can also layer it in a shallow dish and top with a cornbread crust for a unique presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a great meal prep option!

Freezing

This chili freezes beautifully. Place cooled chili in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

  1. Can I use a different type of cheese in the chili?

    Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like a sharp cheddar or a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

  2. What can I do if my chili is too thick?

    If your chili turns out thicker than you’d like, simply add more beef or chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.

  3. How can I make this chili spicier?

    Add extra diced chilies, a splash of hot sauce, or some chopped jalapeños to up the heat level to your liking.

  4. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

    Yes, this recipe is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Enchilada Chili Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience of flavors that comforts and inspires. Whether you’re making it for game day or a cozy night in, I hope it brings joy and warmth to your table.

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Cheesy Enchilada Chili Recipe

Cheesy Enchilada Chili Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 82 reviews
  • Author: Julia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex

Description

This Cheesy Enchilada Chili combines all the comforting flavors of enchiladas with the hearty goodness of chili, featuring ground beef, salsa con queso, beans, corn, and a luscious cheesy broth. Perfect for cozy dinners, it’s easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite toppings and spice levels.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Meat and Seasonings

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 1/4 cup water

Sauces and Broths

  • 1 jar Tostitos Salsa Con Queso
  • 1 can potato soup (10.75 oz)
  • 1 1/4 cups sour cream
  • 1 can fire-roasted diced green chilies (4 oz)
  • 1 1/4 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

Vegetables and Add-ins

  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1 cup pinto beans or black beans, drained and rinsed

Instructions

  1. Brown Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  2. Season Beef: Add taco seasoning and water to the skillet with beef. Stir well and cook until the liquid is mostly absorbed, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the seasoned beef to a Dutch oven or large pot. Pour in the salsa con queso, potato soup, sour cream, and both broths. Stir thoroughly until the sour cream is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
  4. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the fire-roasted chilies, frozen corn, and beans. Mix well to distribute evenly.
  5. Heat Through: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through and flavors meld.
  6. Serve: Ladle into bowls and serve hot with tortilla chips or Fritos. Garnish with jalapeños or your favorite toppings for extra flavor.

Notes

  • Ground Meat Options: Substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based options for different flavors.
  • Beans Choice: Use pinto or black beans based on your preference or what you have on hand.
  • Adjust Spice: Increase or decrease taco seasoning, or add hot sauce for spicier chili.
  • Serving Suggestions: Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions, or additional hot sauce for extra flavor.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
  • Calories: 500 kcal
  • Sugar: 10 g
  • Sodium: 1000 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

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