Introduction

There’s something magical about a big pot of chili bubbling away on the stove—especially when it’s loaded with cheesy goodness and bold flavors. Enter this Cheesy Ground Beef Enchilada Chili: a dish that combines all the cozy comfort of chili with the zesty flavors of enchiladas. If you’re a fan of hearty, satisfying meals that require minimal effort but still deliver tons of flavor, then this is the recipe for you.

Picture this: A rich and savory chili made with ground beef, loaded with spices, enchilada sauce, and topped with gooey, melted cheese. It’s everything you love about enchiladas—minus the rolling and the baking. It’s a total weeknight win! What’s more, this recipe comes together in under an hour and is perfect for feeding a crowd or having leftovers for the next day. If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful dish that will warm you up from the inside out, look no further.

I first stumbled upon this recipe when I was craving enchiladas, but didn’t have the energy for all the prep work. I thought, “Why not just throw all those delicious enchilada ingredients into one pot?” And that’s how this cheesy, comforting chili was born. Fast-forward to today, and it’s become a regular in our dinner rotation—especially when the weather starts to cool down, and you just want something hearty and filling to curl up with. The best part is, it’s so versatile! You can customize it with your favorite toppings, add some heat, or make it vegetarian—there’s really no wrong way to enjoy it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Ground Beef Enchilada Chili is a must-try for several reasons:

Quick and Easy: It comes together in just under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. The ground beef cooks quickly, and the rest of the ingredients are simply added and simmered to perfection.
Family-Friendly: Everyone, from picky eaters to adults, will love this dish. It’s rich in flavor, cheesy, and comforting—making it a great option for family dinners. Plus, kids will love the gooey cheese topping!

Comforting and Hearty: This chili is the ultimate comfort food. The ground beef creates a meaty base that’s full of savory goodness, while the enchilada sauce brings a nice tangy depth to the flavor profile. Add in the melted cheese, and you’ve got a bowl of warmth and satisfaction that’s perfect for colder days.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level, toppings, or even make it vegetarian by swapping the beef for beans or veggies. It’s the kind of dish that you can make your own!

From the moment you stir that cheese into the chili and it melts into the sauce, you’ll know you’ve got a winning recipe. Plus, it’s one of those meals that’s even better the next day, so leftovers are a major bonus!

Preparation Time and Servings

Total Time: 50 minutes (10 minutes prep, 40 minutes cook time)
Servings: This recipe serves about 6-8 people, depending on portion size.
Calories per Serving: 450-500 calories (depending on toppings and cheese used).

Ingredients

For this cheesy, savory chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb ground beef – The base of our chili, which adds richness and flavor.
1 medium onion, diced – For sweetness and depth of flavor.

2 cloves garlic, minced – Adds a punch of aroma and flavor to the dish.
2 cups enchilada sauce – The star ingredient that brings that signature enchilada flavor to the chili.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Adds a little acidity and sweetness to balance the flavors.

1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed – For texture and additional heartiness.
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed – Another layer of texture and flavor.
1 cup beef broth – To help simmer everything together and create a rich base.

2 teaspoons chili powder – For a mild heat and that classic chili flavor.
1 teaspoon cumin – Adds a warm, earthy note that complements the enchilada sauce.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika – To add a touch of smokiness.

1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavors.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – For seasoning.
1-2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – For that melty, cheesy topping.

Toppings (optional): Sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced green onions, tortilla chips, or avocado.

Each ingredient plays an essential role in creating a balanced, flavorful dish, from the savory beef to the tangy enchilada sauce. The beans add extra protein, making this a hearty, satisfying meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make the best Cheesy Ground Beef Enchilada Chili you’ve ever had:

Brown the Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, if necessary.
- Pro Tip: Use lean ground beef to cut down on excess grease, or swap it for ground turkey if you prefer a leaner option.

Add Onions and Garlic:
- Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
- Tip: Make sure not to burn the garlic. If it starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.

Stir in the Spices:
- Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the beef and onions evenly with the spices. Let the spices cook for a minute to release their full flavor.
Add the Beans and Tomatoes:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), kidney beans, and black beans. Mix everything well.
Pour in the Enchilada Sauce and Broth:
- Add the enchilada sauce and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.

Add the Cheese:
- Once the chili has thickened slightly and the flavors have blended, sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and incorporated into the chili, creating a creamy, cheesy texture.
Taste and Adjust:
- Give the chili a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you want more heat, add some cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce. For a bit more tang, squeeze in some lime juice.
Serve:
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings. A dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, or a few slices of avocado will elevate this dish to the next level.

How to Serve

Here are a few fun ways to serve your Cheesy Ground Beef Enchilada Chili:

With Tortilla Chips: Serve it alongside crispy tortilla chips for a crunchy texture that pairs perfectly with the cheesy chili.
Over Rice: For a heartier meal, serve the chili over a bed of white or brown rice. It’ll soak up all the flavorful sauce.

With Cornbread: The sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread makes it a great side to balance out the chili’s richness.
Toppings: Top with sour cream, fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, diced green onions, or avocado slices. You can even drizzle with some extra enchilada sauce for more flavor.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Cheesy Ground Beef Enchilada Chili turns out perfect every time, here are some extra tips:

Customize Your Heat Level: If you like your chili spicier, consider adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the pot. You can also use a spicy enchilada sauce to give it an extra kick.
Make It Vegetarian: You can swap the ground beef for black beans, pinto beans, or a mixture of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn. The enchilada sauce will still provide that classic enchilada flavor.
Don’t Skip the Cheese: The cheese is essential for making this chili extra creamy and comforting. If you want to get fancy, you can try a blend of cheeses, like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, to add more depth of flavor.

Let It Simmer: The longer you let the chili simmer, the better the flavors will meld. If you have the time, let it cook on low for an additional 30 minutes or so to get all those flavors deep into the chili.
Freezing Leftovers: This chili freezes wonderfully! Simply let it cool completely, transfer it to an airtight container, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw and reheat on the stove.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Yes! This Cheesy Ground Beef Enchilada Chili actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. You can prepare it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

2. Can I freeze this chili for later?

Absolutely! This chili freezes very well. After it’s cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove. If the chili thickens after freezing, just add a little broth or water to loosen it up.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights or family gatherings, this Cheesy Ground Beef Enchilada Chili should be at the top of your list. It’s easy to make, full of bold flavors, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for something cheesy and comforting. Whether you’re curling up with a bowl on a chilly evening or serving it at your next dinner party, this chili will hit all the right notes. The best part? It’s versatile and customizable, so you can make it as spicy or mild as you like.

Serve it with your favorite toppings, add some side dishes like cornbread or tortilla chips, and enjoy a comforting meal that will leave you feeling warm and satisfied. Enjoy!