Hearty Chili with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef – A Flavorful Twist

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Introduction Of Chili With Enchilada Sauce

Chili is a versatile and comforting dish, loved for its hearty flavors and endless customization options. Whether you enjoy it mild or spicy, with beans or without, chili is a go-to meal that satisfies any crowd and suits any occasion.

Adding enchilada sauce to traditional chili takes the dish to a new level by infusing it with a rich, tangy flavor. The sauce’s blend of spices, chili peppers, and tomatoes enhances the chili base, creating a deeper, more complex profile that’s both bold and comforting.

This recipe is perfect for a variety of occasions, from cozy cold-weather meals to lively game nights and potlucks. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy, offering a flavorful twist on a classic favorite.

chili recipe with enchilada sauce and ground beef

Ingredients for Chili with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef

Core Ingredients Overview

  1. Ground Beef
    • The hearty foundation of the chili, providing richness and depth. Choose lean or regular ground beef based on your preference for fat content and flavor.
  2. Enchilada Sauce
    • Use red enchilada sauce for a tangy, robust chili or green enchilada sauce for a zesty, slightly spicy twist. Both add complexity to the chili base.
  3. Onion, Garlic, and Bell Peppers
    • These aromatics are essential for building layers of flavor.
    • Diced onion adds sweetness, garlic adds depth, and bell peppers contribute color and a subtle sweetness.
  4. Beans
    • Add kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans for texture, protein, and heartiness. Adjust quantities or omit based on your preference.
  5. Diced Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce
    • The base of the chili, diced tomatoes provide chunks of texture while tomato sauce adds richness and ties the ingredients together.
  6. Beef or Chicken Broth
    • Keeps the chili moist and adds a savory depth. Beef broth is ideal for a robust flavor, while chicken broth offers a lighter alternative.

Seasonings and Spices

  1. Chili Powder, Cumin, Smoked Paprika, Oregano, and Garlic Powder
    • These classic spices create a warm, smoky, and savory base that pairs perfectly with enchilada sauce and ground beef.
  2. Cayenne Pepper for Heat (Optional)
    • Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spice level based on your preference.
  3. Salt and Black Pepper for Seasoning Balance
    • Essential for enhancing the flavors and ensuring the chili is well-balanced.

Optional Toppings and Add-Ons

  1. Shredded Cheese, Sour Cream, Diced Avocado, Fresh Cilantro, or Tortilla Chips
    • Elevate the chili with customizable toppings to add creaminess, crunch, or freshness.
  2. A Drizzle of Extra Enchilada Sauce for Enhanced Flavor
    • Amplify the tangy, spicy notes by adding a final drizzle of enchilada sauce just before serving.

Preparing the Chili

Preparing the Ingredients

  1. Tips for Dicing Vegetables Efficiently
    • Use a sharp knife and chop onion, bell peppers, and garlic into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. For speed, consider using a food processor with a dicing blade.
  2. How to Choose the Right Ground Beef for Chili (Lean vs. Fatty)
    • For a richer, more flavorful chili, opt for 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat).
    • For a lighter chili, use 90/10 ground beef or drain excess fat after browning.

Sautéing the Aromatics and Beef

  1. Heating Oil in a Pot and Sautéing Onion, Garlic, and Bell Peppers
    • Heat 1–2 tablespoons of oil (olive or vegetable) in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
    • Add diced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic, sautéing for 3–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  2. Browning the Ground Beef and Breaking It into Small Crumbles
    • Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the pot and add the ground beef.
    • Cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon for even cooking. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Building the Flavor Base

  1. Adding Chili Powder, Cumin, and Smoked Paprika to Toast the Spices
    • Stir in chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, allowing the spices to toast for 1–2 minutes. This step enhances their aroma and depth.
  2. Stirring in Enchilada Sauce and Tomato-Based Ingredients for the Chili Base
    • Pour in the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce, stirring to combine.
    • Add beef or chicken broth to achieve your desired consistency, ensuring a saucy and rich base.

Cooking the Chili

Combining the Ingredients

  1. Adding Beans, Broth, and Additional Spices to the Pot
    • Stir in kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans (if using) for texture and protein.
    • Add beef or chicken broth to create the desired consistency.
    • Sprinkle in any additional spices, such as a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or a dash of oregano for herbal notes.
  2. Mixing Thoroughly to Ensure Even Flavor Distribution
    • Stir all the ingredients well, ensuring the spices, beans, and liquid are evenly combined for a balanced flavor throughout the chili.

Simmering the Chili

  1. Bringing the Chili to a Gentle Boil, Then Reducing Heat to Simmer
    • Turn the heat to medium-high and bring the chili to a gentle boil.
    • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered.
  2. Letting the Flavors Meld for 30–45 Minutes, Stirring Occasionally
    • Simmer for at least 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and meld beautifully.

Adjusting Seasoning and Consistency

  1. Tasting and Adding Salt, Pepper, or Extra Spices as Needed
    • Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, or more chili powder, cumin, or smoked paprika to match your flavor preferences.
  2. Adjusting the Thickness by Adding More Broth or Simmering Longer
    • If the chili is too thick, add a splash of broth or water.
    • For a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered a bit longer to reduce the liquid and concentrate the flavors.

Tips for the Best Chili with Enchilada Sauce

Choosing the Right Enchilada Sauce

  1. Differences Between Red and Green Enchilada Sauce and How They Affect Flavor
    • Red enchilada sauce offers a rich, tangy, and slightly smoky flavor, perfect for a traditional chili twist.
    • Green enchilada sauce, made with tomatillos and green chilies, has a zesty and slightly spicier profile, giving the chili a fresh and vibrant taste.
  2. Using Homemade vs. Store-Bought Enchilada Sauce
    • Homemade enchilada sauce allows you to control the spice and salt levels for a personalized touch.
    • Store-bought sauces are convenient and come in a variety of flavors. Choose a high-quality brand to ensure rich and authentic flavors.

Balancing the Heat and Tanginess

  1. Adjusting Cayenne or Jalapeños for Spice Lovers
    • Increase the heat by adding more cayenne pepper, chopped jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce.
    • For a milder chili, reduce or omit these spicy elements while emphasizing other flavors.
  2. Adding a Touch of Sugar or Honey to Balance the Acidity of Tomatoes and Enchilada Sauce
    • A teaspoon of sugar, honey, or agave nectar helps balance the natural tanginess of the tomatoes and enchilada sauce without overpowering the chili.

Adding Unique Flavor Enhancements

  1. Incorporating Worcestershire Sauce or a Splash of Lime Juice
    • Add Worcestershire sauce for a subtle umami depth or a squeeze of lime juice for a bright, fresh finish.
  2. Mixing in Roasted Corn or Diced Green Chilies for Added Texture and Taste
    • Stir in roasted corn kernels for sweetness or diced green chilies for a mild, smoky flavor. These ingredients enhance the chili’s texture and add pops of flavor.

Variations of Chili with Enchilada Sauce

Vegetarian Chili

  1. Substituting Ground Beef with Plant-Based Crumbles or Extra Beans
    • Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles for a hearty, meat-free option.
    • Alternatively, double the amount of beans (kidney, black, or pinto) for added protein and texture.
  2. Using Vegetable Broth Instead of Beef Broth
    • Swap beef broth with vegetable broth to maintain a rich base while keeping the dish entirely vegetarian.

Spicy Enchilada Chili

  1. Adding Chipotle Peppers, Hot Sauce, or Habaneros for Extra Heat
    • Mix in chipotle peppers in adobo, a splash of hot sauce, or finely diced habaneros for a smoky, fiery kick. Adjust the quantity to match your spice tolerance.
  2. Balancing Spice with a Creamy Topping Like Sour Cream or Cheese
    • Soften the heat with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, or slices of avocado for a cooling contrast.

Slow Cooker or Instant Pot Version

  1. Adapting the Recipe for Hands-Free Cooking in a Slow Cooker
    • Brown the ground beef and sauté the aromatics on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker.
    • Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld without constant attention.
  2. Pressure Cooking Tips for Faster Preparation Without Losing Flavor
    • Use the sauté function on an Instant Pot to brown the beef and cook the aromatics.
    • Add the remaining ingredients and pressure cook on high for 15–20 minutes, followed by a natural release.

No-Bean Enchilada Chili

  1. Omitting Beans for a Keto-Friendly Version
    • Skip the beans entirely to make a low-carb, keto-friendly chili that’s still hearty and satisfying.
  2. Using Zucchini or Cauliflower as a Substitute for Beans
    • Add diced zucchini, cauliflower florets, or mushrooms for texture and bulk. These vegetables absorb the chili’s flavors beautifully and add a nutritious twist.

Serving Suggestions for Enchilada Chili

Classic Pairings

  1. Serving Chili with Cornbread, Rice, or Tortilla Chips
    • Pair the enchilada chili with warm, buttery cornbread for a classic Southern touch.
    • Serve over fluffy steamed rice to create a hearty, filling meal.
    • Use tortilla chips as a crunchy side or as scoops for a fun, interactive way to enjoy the chili.
  2. Adding a Crisp Salad or Roasted Vegetables as a Side Dish
    • Balance the richness of the chili with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette.
    • Add a side of roasted vegetables, like zucchini, carrots, or Brussels sprouts, to provide a fresh and flavorful contrast.

Creative Serving Ideas

  1. Using Chili as a Topping for Baked Potatoes or Nachos
    • Load a baked potato with enchilada chili, shredded cheese, and sour cream for a comforting meal.
    • Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top with chili, melted cheese, and jalapeños for irresistible nachos.
  2. Stuffing the Chili into Tortillas for Enchilada-Inspired Wraps
    • Spoon the chili into warm flour tortillas, roll them up, and top with additional enchilada sauce and melted cheese for a chili-enchilada hybrid.
    • Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.

Storing and Reheating Chili

How to Store Leftovers

  1. Refrigerating Chili in an Airtight Container for Up to 4 Days
    • Transfer the leftover chili to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Proper storage ensures freshness and prevents odors from affecting other foods.
  2. Freezing Portions for Up to 3 Months for Convenient Meal Prep
    • Divide the chili into individual portions or family-sized servings and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Best Practices for Reheating

  1. Reheating on the Stovetop or Microwave with a Splash of Broth if Needed
    • Stovetop: Heat the chili in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the chili has thickened.
    • Microwave: Place the chili in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a lid or damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each round.
  2. How Chili Flavors Improve and Deepen Over Time
    • Chili often tastes better the next day because the spices and ingredients have more time to meld, creating a richer, more complex flavor. Reheating allows you to enjoy the dish at its peak.

FAQs About Chili with Enchilada Sauce

Can I Use Chicken or Turkey Instead of Beef?

  • Yes, you can substitute ground chicken or ground turkey for a lighter version.
  • Adjust the cooking time slightly, as these leaner proteins cook faster than beef.

What’s the Difference Between Red and Green Enchilada Sauce?

  • Red enchilada sauce is made with red chili peppers and has a tangy, smoky flavor.
  • Green enchilada sauce, made with tomatillos and green chilies, is zesty, slightly acidic, and has a fresher profile. Choose based on your flavor preference.

Do I Have to Use Beans in This Recipe?

  • No, beans are optional. Omit them for a bean-free chili or substitute with vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added bulk and texture.

Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?

  • Absolutely! Brown the ground beef and sauté the aromatics on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker.
  • Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

How Do I Adjust the Spice Level?

  • To increase spice: Add more cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce.
  • To reduce spice: Use a milder enchilada sauce and omit cayenne or jalapeños. Adding sour cream or cheese can also help balance heat.

Can I Prepare the Chili Ahead of Time?

  • Yes, chili can be made 1–2 days in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious.

Additional FAQs

What Is the Secret to Really Good Chili?

  • The secret lies in layering flavors: sautéing aromatics, toasting spices, and using ingredients like enchilada sauce, broth, or a touch of sweetener to balance flavors.

Is Chili Sauce the Same as Enchilada Sauce?

  • No, chili sauce is usually a ketchup-based condiment with mild spices, while enchilada sauce is a chili pepper-based sauce with a tangy, smoky, or zesty flavor.

What Is the Best Meat Mix for Chili?

  • A combination of ground beef and pork provides a balanced fat-to-lean ratio for richness and depth. Ground turkey or chicken are great leaner options.

Why Do You Put Sour Cream in Chili?

  • Sour cream adds a cooling, creamy element that balances the heat and tanginess, enhancing the overall texture and flavor of the dish.

Conclusion

Enchilada sauce takes traditional chili to new heights, infusing it with a rich, tangy flavor that makes every bite bold and satisfying. This twist on a classic dish combines the heartiness of chili with the vibrant spices of enchilada sauce, creating a meal that’s both comforting and packed with flavor.

With endless topping options and variations, this recipe invites creativity—whether you prefer it spicy or mild, with beans or without. Pair it with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips, and don’t forget to explore unique serving ideas like chili nachos or stuffed tortillas.

Chili with enchilada sauce is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for game nights, potlucks, or cozy family dinners. It’s sure to become a favorite at your table, offering warmth, satisfaction, and the irresistible flavors of a classic comfort food with a tangy twist.

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