Cheesy Ground Beef Enchilada Chili


Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s so much to adore about Cheesy Ground Beef Enchilada Chili. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

  1. Flavor Explosion : The combination of smoky spices, rich enchilada sauce, and melty cheese creates layers of deliciousness.
  2. One-Pot Simplicity : Minimal cleanup makes this dish perfect for busy nights.
  3. Kid-Friendly : Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, savory flavors.
  4. Customizable : Adjust spice levels, swap proteins, or add toppings to suit your taste.
  5. Make-Ahead Friendly : Prep it ahead of time and reheat for stress-free meals.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to this dish lies in its simple yet indulgent combination of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chili:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
  • 1 medium onion , diced
  • 3 cloves garlic , minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans , drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans , drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 cup enchilada sauce (mild, medium, or hot depending on your preference)
  • 1 packet chili seasoning (or homemade blend: chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)

For Serving:

  • Tortilla chips (for crunch)
  • Sour cream
  • Fresh cilantro , chopped
  • Green onions , sliced
  • Avocado slices or guacamole
  • Lime wedges (for a fresh squeeze)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to whip up this hearty, cheesy chili? Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
  2. Add the diced onion and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Chili

  1. Stir in the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, corn, enchilada sauce, and chili seasoning. Mix well to combine.
  2. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 15–20 minutes , allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

  1. Stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese until melted and creamy. If the chili seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Ladle the chili into bowls and top generously with extra shredded cheese.
  2. Garnish with your favorite toppings: sour cream, fresh cilantro, green onions, avocado slices, and tortilla chips.
  3. Squeeze a wedge of lime over the top for a fresh, zesty finish.
  4. Dive in and savor the cheesy, spicy, comforting goodness in every bite!