Best Chili with Enchilada Sauce
The Best Chili with Enchilada Sauce combines hearty chili with rich, tangy enchilada sauce for a comforting, flavorful meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. It features bold spices, simple ingredients, and versatility to suit families and spice lovers alike.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American / Tex-Mex
- Diet: Gluten Free
Protein
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey (or plant-based crumbles for vegetarian option)
Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauces and Tomatoes
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Beans
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans or black beans, drained and rinsed
Spices
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped cilantro
- Sliced jalapeños
- Step 1: Sauté Aromatics – Heat a splash of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant to build the savory foundation for the chili.
- Step 2: Brown the Meat – Add ground beef or turkey to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked through.
- Step 3: Add Spices and Sauce – Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, stirring to coat the meat and onions. Pour in enchilada sauce, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes, mixing well to combine all flavors.
- Step 4: Stir in Beans and Simmer – Drain and rinse beans, then add them to the pot. Reduce heat, cover, and let the chili simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Step 5: Adjust and Serve – Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the chili hot with your favorite optional toppings or side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use homemade enchilada sauce if possible to brighten and deepen flavors.
- Let the chili rest or refrigerate overnight to allow flavors to meld fully.
- Choose kidney or black beans to maintain texture during cooking.
- Slow simmering enhances depth and richness of the chili.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chili, enchilada sauce, ground beef chili, cozy dinner, easy chili recipe, family-friendly chili, Tex-Mex chili