Name: Cheesy Enchilada Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-482550H54M46S
Total time: PT-482550H54M46S
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 2 tbsp taco seasoning; 1/4 cup water; 1 jar Tostitos Salsa Con Queso; 1 can potato soup; 1 1/4 cups sour cream; 1 can fire roasted diced green chilis; 1 1/4 cups beef broth; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 cup frozen corn; 1 cup pinto beans or black beans

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Let me tell you, this Cheesy Enchilada Chili is an absolute game-changer. It’s the kind of recipe that wraps you in warmth from the first bite, with layers of rich, cheesy goodness and a comforting chili base that’ll make you want to scoop up every last drop. The best part? It’s ridiculously easy to make! Perfect for cozy nights in, quick weeknight dinners, or when you just need something hearty and comforting that packs a punch of flavor. Trust me—you’re going to fall in love with this one.

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Enchilada Chili

This isn’t just chili—it’s a celebration in a bowl. Here’s why it’s so irresistible:

Versatile: Whether you’re serving it as a filling weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing dish at a party, or a comforting bowl just for yourself, this chili works for any occasion. And you can make it your own by adding a few extra toppings (hello, crispy tortilla chips!).

Budget-Friendly: You probably have most of these ingredients already in your pantry, which means no last-minute grocery store runs. Quick, easy, and satisfying!

Quick and Easy: No complicated steps here! Just toss everything in a pot, stir, and let it simmer while you enjoy a well-deserved break. It’s perfect for even the most beginner-friendly cooks.

Customizable: Want a little more heat? Throw in some jalapeños or a dash of chili powder. Prefer it milder? Adjust the seasoning and skip the spicy extras. It’s that flexible.

Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves chili. And this one’s got cheesy goodness, hearty beans, and plenty of flavor to make everyone at the table ask for seconds. You’ll find yourself making it again and again!

Ingredients

Here’s the magic of this dish: simple ingredients that come together to create something deliciously irresistible.

Ground Beef or Turkey: The meaty base that gives this chili its hearty depth. Whether you go for beef or turkey, the flavor is unbeatable when it simmers with the spices.

Enchilada Sauce: This is where the magic happens. That deep, flavorful sauce coats the meat and beans with a rich, tangy twist that gives the chili its signature flavor.

Black Beans: Tender and slightly creamy, these beans add bulk and heartiness to the chili while soaking up all those incredible flavors.

Diced Tomatoes: Bursting with juicy goodness, diced tomatoes add freshness and balance the richness of the other ingredients. They’re the perfect foundation for a cozy bowl of chili.

Green Chiles: For a mild kick of heat, these chiles bring just the right amount of spice without overwhelming the flavor.

Cheese (Cheddar or Mexican Blend): The showstopper. Melted cheese swirled throughout makes each spoonful creamy and indulgent. It’s cheesy chili perfection.

Tortilla Chips (Optional): If you’re looking for a little crunch, break up some tortilla chips into your chili. It adds a wonderful texture contrast!

Instructions

Let’s dive into how to make this cheesy masterpiece:

Cook the Meat: In a large pot, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned and fully cooked, drain any excess fat. The meat is the base of your chili, so make sure it’s nice and crispy for maximum flavor.

Add the Veggies and Spices: Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, green chiles, and enchilada sauce to the meat. Stir it all together and bring it to a simmer. You want those flavors to meld beautifully as the chili simmers away. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and any other spices you love.

Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili should thicken slightly and become rich and full of flavor. Don’t rush this step—it’s all about the simmer!

Add the Cheese: Once the chili is ready, stir in your cheese until it melts into the chili, creating a creamy, cheesy texture that will make you want to dive in right away.

Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with extra cheese, a sprinkle of cilantro, or even more tortilla chips for that extra crunch. Serve it up hot and enjoy every spoonful!

How to Serve Cheesy Enchilada Chili

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings:

Toppings: Top your chili with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an added pop of flavor.

Fresh Side Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with a zesty vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the warmth of the chili.

Crusty Bread: Don’t forget a thick slice of crusty bread or garlic bread to mop up all that delicious chili goodness.

Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top balances the spice and gives it a creamy contrast.

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: You can chop and prep your ingredients ahead of time for a quicker cooking experience later. Just store everything in airtight containers until you’re ready to cook.

Make it Your Own: Love a little more heat? Add some cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to your chili. If you prefer a more mild flavor, skip the spicy extras.

Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal the next day.

Double the Recipe: This chili freezes beautifully. If you have leftovers (or want to make a double batch for later), freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef?
A1: Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well, giving the chili a lighter feel without sacrificing any flavor.

Q2: How can I make this dish spicier?
A2: Add some diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to kick up the heat!

Q3: Can I use canned chili beans instead of black beans?
A3: Yes, chili beans would work great in this recipe, and they’ll bring an extra depth of flavor to your chili.

Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A4: Yes! This chili only gets better as it sits, so make it the day before and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal.

Q6: Can I freeze this chili?
A6: Yes, it freezes wonderfully! Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q7: Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
A7: Definitely! Brown the meat in a skillet, then transfer it to the slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on low for 4-6 hours for extra flavor.

Q8: Can I add extra veggies to the chili?
A8: Of course! Feel free to toss in some corn, bell peppers, or even zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

Q9: What can I serve with Cheesy Enchilada Chili?
A9: Pair it with a side of fresh cornbread, tortilla chips, or a light salad for a complete meal.

Q10: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A10: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring between.

Conclusion

Cheesy Enchilada Chili is one of those dishes that quickly becomes a family favorite and a go-to comfort meal. It’s the perfect balance of bold flavors, cheesy goodness, and hearty satisfaction—all in one bowl. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, looking for an easy weeknight dinner, or craving something warm and cozy, this chili delivers every time. Plus, with how simple and customizable it is, you can make it exactly to your liking—milder, spicier, or extra cheesy! Trust me, once you’ve tasted this chili, it’ll become a recipe you come back to again and again. Enjoy every spoonful!