Description
Hearty, rich, and loaded with flavor, this Cheesy Enchilada Chili is a satisfying one-pot meal that brings the bold essence of enchiladas into a warm, comforting bowl. With tender beans, seasoned ground beef or turkey, and a velvety cheese-enriched enchilada base, it’s perfect for chilly nights, game day, or anytime you crave bold Tex-Mex comfort food.
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Ingredients
For the Chili Base:
1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
1 tbsp olive oil (if using lean meat)
1 medium onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
1 can (10 oz) red enchilada sauce
1½ cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
½ tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheesy Finish:
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup cream cheese or sour cream
Optional: ½ cup frozen corn or chopped jalapeños
For Serving:
Fresh cilantro or green onions
Crushed tortilla chips or cornbread
Avocado slices or lime wedges
Extra shredded cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add ground beef or turkey, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot.
Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Chili
Stir in black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, and broth.
Season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a simmer and let cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Stir in the Cheese
Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese (or sour cream) and shredded cheddar.
Mix until fully melted and creamy.
If adding corn or jalapeños, stir them in now and cook for another 5 minutes.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
Ladle chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes—extra cheese, chips, herbs, avocado, or lime.
Notes
Use a Mix of Beans – Adds variety in texture and color.
Go Smoky – Add chipotle chili powder or smoked paprika for deeper flavor.
Make It Creamier – Stir in more cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream.
Spice It Up – Add diced green chilies, jalapeños, or hot sauce.
Meal Prep Ready – Doubles easily and tastes even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex / Comfort Food