With a thick, Chili Recipe with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef , this bold and savory chili takes classic comfort food to the next level! Smoky and hearty, it’s packed with tender ground beef, beans, and warming spices. The best part? Made in one pot, it’s perfect for a laid-back dinner or your next game-day feast!
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Recipe
✔ One-Pot Wonder : Maximum flavor, minimal cleanup!
✔ Unique Chili Twist : The enchilada sauce adds a smoky, slightly spicy depth.
✔ Protein-Packed : Loaded with ground beef and beans to keep you full and satisfied.
✔ Great for Meal Prep : Tastes even better the next day and freezes beautifully!
Ingredients
For the Chili:
- Ground Beef (80/20) : The perfect balance of flavor and tenderness.
- Onion & Garlic : Adds rich flavor and depth.
- Black Beans & Kidney Beans : Classic pairing for texture and protein.
- Diced Tomatoes (with Juice) : Brings freshness and natural sweetness.
- Enchilada Sauce : The game-changer in this chili! Choose mild or hot based on your spice preference.
- Beef Broth : Forms a rich, hearty base (use water sparingly if needed).
- Tomato Paste : Thickens the chili and intensifies the tomato flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce : Adds umami magic to enhance the savory taste.
- Spices:
✅ Chili Powder : A must for bold flavor.
✅ Smoked Paprika : Brings a rich, smoky depth.
✅ Cumin : Classic chili spice.
✅ Oregano (Optional) : Adds earthy richness.
✅ Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) : For a little extra heat. - Salt & Black Pepper : Essential for balancing all the flavors.
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese : Chili and cheese = perfection!
- Sour Cream : A cool contrast to the heat.
- Sliced Jalapeños : For spice lovers!
- Fresh Cilantro (Chopped) : Brightens every bite.
- Tortilla Chips or Cornbread : Perfect for scooping up every last bite.
👉 The complete ingredient list with measurements is in the recipe card below!
If you’re looking for tips on alternative protein choices, you might enjoy this guide to ground beef recipes.
How to Make Chili with Enchilada Sauce
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
1️⃣ Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2️⃣ Add the ground beef and cook until browned (5-7 minutes), breaking it apart as it cooks.
3️⃣ Drain excess grease if needed.
4️⃣ Stir in the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Chili Base
5️⃣ Stir in the following seasonings and ingredients: ✅ Chili powder
✅ Smoked paprika
✅ Cumin
✅ Oregano (if using)
✅ Red pepper flakes (if using)
✅ Salt & black pepper
✅ Tomato paste
✅ Worcestershire sauce
6️⃣ Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices and bring out their flavors.
7️⃣ Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), enchilada sauce, and beef broth.
8️⃣ Stir in the kidney beans and black beans until well combined.
Step 3: Simmer the Chili
9️⃣ Bring the chili to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
🔟 Reduce heat to low, cover, and let cook for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
1️⃣1️⃣ If the chili thickens too much, add a little extra broth or water.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
1️⃣2️⃣ Taste & Adjust Seasoning – Add extra salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed.
1️⃣3️⃣ Ladle into bowls and top with cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, and cilantro.
1️⃣4️⃣ Serve with tortilla chips or warm cornbread for the best experience!
Pro Tips for Perfect Chili
✔ Toast the Spices : Cooking them briefly before adding liquids enhances their richness.
✔ Use Quality Enchilada Sauce : A good sauce makes a big difference! Look for one with deep, smoky flavors.
✔ Let it Simmer : The longer chili cooks, the more the flavors meld. Aim for at least 30 minutes.
✔ Adjust the Heat : Like it spicy? Add more chili powder or jalapeños. Prefer it mild? Use mild enchilada sauce and skip red pepper flakes.
How to Serve
This bold, enchilada-style chili is fantastic on its own, but here are some fun serving ideas:
🥖 With Cornbread : Soaks up all that delicious flavor.
🥑 Chili Bowls : Load up with tortilla chips, cheese, sour cream, and avocado.
🍚 Over Rice : Makes it extra hearty and comforting.
🥔 Stuffed Baked Potato : Spoon chili over a fluffy potato for ultimate comfort food.
🌭 Chili Dogs : Smother grilled hot dogs with chili and melted cheese.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Storing Leftovers
- Cool completely before storing.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezes beautifully! Store in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
- Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
FAQs
1. Can I substitute ground turkey for beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works great and makes a lighter version while keeping all the flavor.
2. Is this chili spicy?
It has a mild kick from the enchilada sauce and spices but isn’t overly hot. For more heat, add extra red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef first, then add everything to a slow cooker. Cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours or LOW for 6-8 hours.
4. What’s the best side dish for this chili?
This chili is perfect with cornbread, tortilla chips, rice, baked potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Conclusion
This Chili with Enchilada Sauce & Ground Beef is the perfect mix of smoky, spicy, and hearty. A one-pot wonder, it’s perfect for game day, meal prep, or a cozy family dinner.
🔥 Grab a spoon and enjoy a bowl of comfort! 😋
Chili with Enchilada Sauce and Ground Beef
Equipment
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
For the Chili
- 1 lb ground beef 80/20 for best flavor
- 1 small 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 with juice
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce mild or spicy
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for extra heat
For Serving (Optional)
- shredded cheddar cheese
- sour cream
- sliced jalapeños
- chopped fresh cilantro
- tortilla chips
Instructions
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Stir in onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Add diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, beef broth, and drained beans. Stir well.
- Bring the chili to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let cook for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more broth if needed.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, topped with cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. Pair with tortilla chips or cornbread.