ADVERTISEMENT
### Instructions:
1. **Cook the Meat and Vegetables:**
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once the meat is fully cooked, add the diced onion and garlic. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
2. **Add the Spices and Sauces:**
Sprinkle in the chili seasoning mix, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to coat the meat and onions with the spices. Then, add the diced tomatoes, enchilada sauce, beans, and corn. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
3. **Simmer the Chili:**
Bring the chili to a simmer and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili will thicken, and the flavors will have a chance to meld together. If the chili becomes too thick, you can add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
4. **Add the Cheese:**
Once the chili has simmered and is ready to serve, stir in about 1.5 cups of the shredded cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the chili becomes creamy and cheesy. Reserve the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese for topping.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:**
Ladle the cheesy enchilada chili into bowls. Top with the remaining cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced green onions for a fresh crunch. For added texture, serve with tortilla chips on the side or crumble them directly into the chili.
### Why You’ll Love Cheesy Enchilada Chili:
– **Hearty and Filling:** Packed with protein from the meat and beans, this chili is perfect for a filling meal that’ll keep you satisfied for hours.
– **Flavorful:** The combination of chili seasoning and enchilada sauce adds layers of bold flavors. You’ll get that smoky, spicy kick from the enchilada sauce, balanced out by the richness of the cheese and beans.
– **Customizable:** Feel free to switch up the ingredients to suit your tastes. Want to make it vegetarian? Simply omit the meat and add extra beans or veggies. Prefer more heat? Add some chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
– **Easy to Make:** This recipe comes together in under an hour and requires minimal prep work. It’s a true one-pot wonder, so cleanup is a breeze!
– **Great for Leftovers:** This chili keeps well in the fridge for several days, and the flavors only get better over time. It’s perfect for meal prep or making ahead for busy days.
### Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Enchilada Chili:
– **Balance the Heat:** If you’re using spicy enchilada sauce or adding extra chili peppers, make sure to taste the chili before serving. You can always add a little more cheese or sour cream to balance out the heat if it gets too spicy.
– **Use High-Quality Cheese:** Since cheese is such a key ingredient in this dish, opt for a good-quality shredded cheese for the best melting results. A mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack gives you both flavor and meltability.
– **Serve with Toppings:** Don’t forget the fun toppings! Add your favorite chili toppings like jalapeños, avocado, cilantro, or even crumbled tortilla chips for crunch.
### Conclusion:
Cheesy Enchilada Chili is the perfect comfort food for anyone who loves bold flavors, cheese, and a hearty, filling meal. It’s the ultimate fusion of chili and enchiladas, made with easy-to-find ingredients and minimal prep work. Whether you’re feeding a family or making dinner for yourself, this dish is sure to hit the spot every time. Warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s a dish you’ll want to keep in your recipe rotation for years to come.
