Easy Chili Recipe with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor and comes together quickly, this Chili Recipe with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef is exactly what you need. The rich, savory enchilada sauce elevates the classic chili experience while the ground beef adds satisfying protein and texture. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights but special enough to share with friends or family. Easy to customize and packed with bold spices, it will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Flavor Boost: Using enchilada sauce adds a smoky, tangy twist that sets this chili apart from the rest.
• Quick and Easy: Ground beef cooks fast, making this dish perfect for busy evenings or last-minute meal plans.
• Packed with Protein: Ground beef delivers a hearty and fulfilling punch that satisfies both kids and adults.
• Versatile and Customizable: Adaptable ingredients mean you can easily tweak the recipe to your taste or dietary preferences.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is needed since everything cooks in a single pot or pan, perfect for simplifying dinner time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Get ready to gather a handful of simple but essential ingredients that together create this fantastic chili. Each one contributes a vital layer of taste, texture, or color, making the dish well-rounded and full of personality.

• Ground Beef (1 pound): The star protein, which cooks quickly and absorbs all the rich flavors.
• Enchilada Sauce (1 cup): Infuses a smoky, tangy depth that elevates the chili beyond ordinary.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes (14.5 oz): Adds natural acidity and vibrant chunks that balance the meatiness.
• Black Beans (1 can, drained and rinsed): Offers creamy texture and extra fiber, perfect for heartiness.
• Chopped Onion (1 medium): Brings sweetness and a subtle crunch when sautéed.
• Garlic Cloves (2): Provides aromatic warmth and complexity.
• Chili Powder (2 tablespoons): The key spice for flavor and heat.
• Cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds earthy undertones, enhancing overall depth.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning to bring all flavors together.
• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Used for sautéing and adding a subtle richness.
• Optional: Jalapeño or Chipotle Peppers: For those who like a bit of extra kick or smokiness.

Variations for Chili Recipe with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef

Feel free to make this chili your own by experimenting with different ingredients or adjusting flavors based on what you have on hand or what suits your palate best. It’s surprisingly easy to personalize and still deliver fantastic results.

• Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef for crumbled tofu or sautéed mushrooms to keep the heartiness without meat.
• Spicy Upgrade: Add diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers in adobo, or a splash of hot sauce for bold heat.
• Different Beans: Substitute black beans with kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas for varied texture and nutrition.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, corn, or zucchini to boost the color, crunch, and vitamins.
• Cheese Topping: Top with shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco for a melty, savory finish.

How to Make Chili Recipe with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by finely chopping the onion and mincing the garlic cloves, so they are ready to add in. This simple prep step saves time once you start cooking.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula until it browns completely and releases no more pink. Drain excess fat if desired.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Push the beef to the side, then add onions and garlic to the pot. Cook until soft and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. This builds a savory base flavor for the chili.

Step 4: Add Spices and Enchilada Sauce

Sprinkle chili powder and cumin evenly over the mixture, stirring constantly to toast the spices lightly and awaken their aromas. Pour in the enchilada sauce and mix well.

Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes and Beans

Add the diced tomatoes and rinsed black beans, stirring until everything is combined. Bring the chili to a gentle simmer.

Step 6: Simmer and Adjust

Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This lets flavors meld and the sauce thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more chili powder if needed.

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

• Brown Beef Thoroughly: Proper browning adds flavor through caramelization, improving the chili’s depth.
• Use Quality Enchilada Sauce: A good-quality sauce makes a huge difference in taste and texture.
• Don’t Skip the Simmer: Allowing the chili to simmer helps all ingredients marry perfectly.
• Adjust Consistency: Add broth or water if too thick or simmer longer if too liquidy for your preferred texture.
• Customize Heat Gradually: Add spicy elements bit by bit to avoid overpowering the dish.

How to Serve Chili Recipe with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef

Garnishes

Add freshness and contrast with chopped green onions, cilantro, diced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream. A sprinkle of shredded cheese can make it even more comforting.

Side Dishes

Serve with warm cornbread, tortilla chips, or fluffy rice for a complete meal. A simple green salad or steamed veggies provide light balance.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the chili inside baked potatoes, over nachos, or with a side of warm pita bread for a fun twist that impresses everyone at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer cooled chili into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days, making it a convenient option for meal prep or quick dinners following busy days.

Freezing

This chili freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 3 months to have delicious homemade chili at your fingertips anytime.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even warmth. Add a splash of water or broth if the chili thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well with this recipe’s flavors and will result in a lighter chili.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the main ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check labels on enchilada sauce and canned goods to be certain.

How spicy is this chili?

The base recipe has a mild to moderate heat level, but you can easily increase spiciness by adding jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or extra chili powder.

Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Definitely! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours for tender, flavorful chili.

What toppings work best with this chili?

Classic toppings like cheese, sour cream, avocado, and fresh herbs complement the rich, smoky flavors perfectly, enhancing every bite.

Final Thoughts

This Chili Recipe with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef is a true crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. Its combination of ease, flavor, and hearty satisfaction means you’ll want to make it again and again. So grab your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a warm, delicious bowl of chili that feels like a big cozy hug at the end of any day.

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