Cheesy Enchilada Chili Recipe

Cheesy Enchilada Chili Recipe: A Comforting, Flavor-Packed Delight

If you’re looking for a rich, cheesy, and ultra-flavorful chili that combines the best of Tex-Mex and classic comfort food, then this Cheesy Enchilada Chili is the perfect dish for you. Packed with seasoned ground beef, creamy queso, fire-roasted green chiles, and a hearty blend of ingredients, this dish is ideal for cold nights, game days, or any time you crave a bowl of pure comfort.

Introduction

Chili is a staple dish loved by many, but if you’re ready to take it up a notch, this cheesy, enchilada-inspired version will be your new go-to recipe. The combination of bold taco-seasoned beef, smooth Tostitos Salsa Con Queso, and creamy potato soup creates a one-of-a-kind texture and flavor. Plus, the addition of sour cream and fire-roasted green chiles adds just the right amount of tang and spice.

This Cheesy Enchilada Chili is quick to prepare and requires minimal effort, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even meal prep. Whether you serve it with tortilla chips, warm cornbread, or over rice, it’s a dish that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

To prepare this hearty and cheesy Cheesy Enchilada Chili, gather the following ingredients:

Essential Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
2 tablespoons 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 chiles
1 1/4 cups beef broth

How to Make Cheesy Enchilada Chili

1. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease to keep the chili from being too oily.

2. Add the Seasoning

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef, then add 1/4 cup of water to help distribute the flavors evenly. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the beef to absorb all the spices.

3. Add the Base Ingredients

Next, pour in the Tostitos Salsa Con Queso and potato soup, stirring until everything is fully combined. The queso adds a rich, creamy texture, while the potato soup enhances the thickness of the chili, making it extra hearty and comforting.

4. Incorporate the Sour Cream and Chiles

Add the sour cream and fire-roasted diced green chiles to the pot. Stir everything together to create a smooth, velvety consistency. The sour cream balances the spices, while the fire-roasted chiles bring a smoky depth of flavor that elevates the dish.

5. Pour in the Beef Broth

Slowly add beef broth to the mixture, stirring constantly. This helps thin the chili slightly while maintaining a creamy, luscious texture. Let the chili simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the Cheesy Enchilada Chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips. Serve it warm with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a side of rice for the ultimate comforting meal.

Helpful Tips

Use Freshly Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and tenderness.
Don’t Skip the Queso: The Tostitos Salsa Con Queso gives the chili its signature cheesy, smooth texture, so don’t substitute it with regular cheese.
Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of green chiles. For more heat, add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Simmer for Richer Flavor: While this chili is ready in just 20 minutes, letting it simmer longer will deepen the flavors even more.
Make it Thicker: If you prefer an extra-thick chili, reduce the beef broth slightly or add more potato soup.

Cooking Tips

To elevate your Cheesy Enchilada Chili, try these additional tips:

Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter version, swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken without sacrificing flavor.
Add Beans for More Heft: Though traditional chili uses beans, this recipe doesn’t require them. However, feel free to stir in black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans for extra protein and texture.
Topping Ideas: Top your chili with sliced avocado, sour cream, diced onions, or a squeeze of lime juice for an added burst of freshness.
Make It a Dip: Serve this chili with tortilla chips as a cheesy dip—perfect for parties and gatherings.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy and cheesy enchilada-inspired chili pairs well with many side dishes. Here are a few great options:

Warm Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread balances the spice and richness of the chili.
Tortilla Chips: Scoop up every bite with crunchy tortilla chips.
Mexican Rice: Serve the chili over fluffy, seasoned rice for a full meal.
Garlic Bread: A slice of garlic bread makes a great savory pairing.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 380
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 950mg
Vitamin C: 10%
Calcium: 15%
Iron: 10%

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Freezing: This chili freezes well for up to 3 months. Store in freezer-safe bags or containers, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! While Tostitos Salsa Con Queso is recommended, you can use Velveeta, Monterey Jack, or a homemade cheese sauce instead.

What if I don’t like spicy foods?
Simply reduce the fire-roasted green chiles and avoid adding extra spice. You can also add more sour cream to mellow the heat.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4-6 hours.

Related Recipes You’ll Love

If you love Cheesy Enchilada Chili, check out these other delicious recipes:

Conclusion

This Cheesy Enchilada Chili is a rich, creamy, and satisfying meal that combines the comfort of chili with the bold flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine. Whether served at a family dinner or a party, this quick and easy recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite! 🌶️🧀🍲