Enchilada Chili is a warm and hearty dish that combines the spicy flavors of enchiladas with a comforting bowl of chili. Loaded with beans, meat, and topped with cheese, it’s simply delicious!
This dish is a perfect choice for a chilly evening. I love serving it with some crunchy tortilla chips on the side. It’s like having a fiesta in a bowl! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive oil: I like using olive oil for its flavor, but you can swap it with vegetable or canola oil if needed. Both work great for cooking without altering the taste.
Ground meat: Ground turkey keeps it lean, but ground beef or even ground chicken are excellent choices if you prefer a richer flavor. For a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or crumbled tofu!
Beans: Black and kidney beans add protein and fiber. If you’re short on one, feel free to use pinto beans or chickpeas. Canned or cooked dried beans also work well!
Enchilada sauce: I love store-bought red enchilada sauce for convenience, but homemade works wonders too. If you want a milder version, a green enchilada sauce is a tasty substitution.
Spices: Cumin and chili powder are crucial for flavor. If you’re out, try using taco seasoning as a handy substitute. Smoked paprika adds a unique depth – feel free to skip it if you don’t have any.
How Can I Make Sure My Chili Has a Rich Flavor?
To elevate the flavor of your Enchilada Chili, pay special attention to building the base. Start by sautéing onions and garlic until they’re soft and aromatic. This step helps unlock their natural sweetness!
- Cook the ground meat until it’s fully browned. This browning process adds depth to the dish!
- When you add spices, let them cook for a minute. This releases their essential oils and boosts the flavor profile.
- Simmer the chili gently with the lid on to allow all ingredients to meld beautifully. This is key for a rich and satisfying taste.
Lastly, don’t hesitate to taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your preference, and you’ll have a fantastic chili ready to enjoy.
Enchilada Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground turkey or ground beef
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10 ounce) can red enchilada sauce
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1 avocado, diced
- Sour cream, for topping
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
- Tortilla chips, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Enchilada Chili takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook, so you’ll be enjoying a hearty meal in about 45 minutes. Perfect for a cozy dinner or game day gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s nice and warm, add the finely chopped onion. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
2. Brown the Meat:
Now, it’s time to add the ground turkey or beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Let it brown for about 6-8 minutes until it’s fully cooked through. Don’t forget to stir occasionally so it cooks evenly.
3. Add the Spices:
Next, sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for another minute to help release the spices’ wonderful aroma. This is where the magic happens!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
Time to add some heartiness! Throw in the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice!), enchilada sauce, and broth. Give it a good stir to mix everything together nicely.
5. Let it Simmer:
Bring the pot to a gentle simmer. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for 20-25 minutes. This will allow all those flavors to blend beautifully. Make sure to stir occasionally!
6. Taste and Adjust:
After 25 minutes, taste the chili and make any adjustments needed for seasoning. Feel free to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your taste!
7. Serve It Up:
When you’re ready to serve, ladle the hot chili into bowls. Top each bowl with a handful of shredded cheese, some diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for that perfect finish.
8. Enjoy:
Accompany your bowl of Enchilada Chili with crunchy tortilla chips on the side for a satisfying scoop. Dive into this delicious blend of flavors and enjoy every bite!
There you have it! A delightful and filling dish that brings warmth and comfort to your table.
Can I Use Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute, and it works perfectly in this recipe. You can also use ground chicken or even go for a meat-free option like lentils or chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicer?
If you want to kick up the heat, you can add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when combining the ingredients. Additionally, consider using a spicier chili powder or adding crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste!
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Definitely! Enchilada Chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. The flavors often taste even better the next day!
What Should I Serve With Enchilada Chili?
It’s fantastic served on its own, but you can enhance the meal by pairing it with tortilla chips for dipping, a side salad for freshness, or cornbread for a delicious contrast. Enjoy your chili any way you like!
