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Quick Weeknight Chili with Ground Beef and Enchilada Sauce

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Discover the ultimate chili recipe with enchilada sauce and ground beef! Rich, hearty, and packed with bold Tex-Mex flavors—perfect for weeknight dinners.

Why you will love this recipe

Looking for a hearty, flavorful dinner that’s both easy to make and packed with bold Tex-Mex flair? This chili recipe with enchilada sauce and ground beef is the perfect solution. Combining the rich, tangy depth of enchilada sauce with the comforting warmth of a classic chili, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for weeknights, game days, or cozy gatherings. It’s incredibly versatile—enjoy it with cornbread, over rice, or topped with cheese and sour cream. With simple ingredients and a one-pot approach, it’s an ideal recipe for busy schedules without sacrificing flavor. Get ready to wow your family with this standout dish!

There’s something truly comforting about a pot of chili simmering on the stove, filling the kitchen with its rich, savory aroma. For us, this chili recipe with enchilada sauce and ground beef brings together two beloved flavors: the bold, smoky spices of Tex-Mex cuisine and the hearty satisfaction of a classic chili. It’s a dish that reminds us of family gatherings, where a big bowl of chili was the centerpiece on chilly evenings. The enchilada sauce adds a tangy twist, making it a hit every time. Whether it’s game night or a cozy dinner, this recipe feels like home in a bowl.

Quick Weeknight Chili with Ground Beef and Enchilada Sauce

Recipe by WikiDishesDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

45

minutes
Calories

320

kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 1 green bell pepper, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 2 cups enchilada sauce (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

  • 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained

  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for garnish)

  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Directions

  • Prep the Vegetables: Dice the onion and bell pepper, and mince the garlic. Set aside.
  • Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5 minutes.
  • Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Cook until softened, about 4–5 minutes.
  • Add Seasonings: Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 1 minute to bring out the scents of the spices.
  • Incorporate Liquids and Beans: Pour in the enchilada sauce and diced tomatoes. Stir well. Add the kidney beans and black beans, mixing to combine.
  • Simmer the Chili: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the chili simmer for 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  • Check Seasoning: Taste the chili and adjust salt or spices as needed.
  • Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with shredded cheese and fresh cilantro if desired. Serve hot with cornbread or tortilla chips.

Notes

  • For a Thicker Chili: Let it stew revealed for the final 10 minutes to decrease the liquid.
  • Make It Spicier: Include a diced jalapeño or a sprint of cayenne pepper.
  • Storage Tips: Store scraps in an air proof holder in the fridge for up to 3 days or solidify for up to 3 months.
  • Variation: Swap ground hamburger for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1 1/2 cups)

Calories: 320

Macronutrients:
 
Amount
%DV
Total Fat
12g
15%
Saturated Fat
4g
20%
Trans Fat
0g
Cholesterol
50mg
17%
Sodium
980mg
43%
Total Carbohydrate
28g
10%
Dietary Fiber
8g
29%
Sugars
6g
Protein
21g
42%
 
Key Vitamins and Minerals:
 
Amount
%DV
Iron
3.6mg
20%
Vitamin A
135mcg
15%
Vitamin C
36mg
40%
Potassium
700mg
15%
 

Additional Notes

This chili is a nutritious, high-protein, and fiber-rich meal that keeps you full longer. The enchilada sauce adds a bold Tex-Mex flair, while the beans provide plant-based nutrients like potassium and iron. Adjust spices to suit your taste, and enjoy this versatile dish as a hearty, comforting meal for any occasion.

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

Please note: The nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and preparation methods used.

FAQ

1. Can I make this chili spicier?

Yes! Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or use hot enchilada sauce to increase the heat level.

Enchilada sauce gives the chili a rich, tangy flavor that sets it apart, but you can substitute tomato sauce or a combination of tomato paste and broth in a pinch.

Absolutely. Use about 2 cups of peeled and diced fresh tomatoes, but note that you may need to adjust the liquid content.

Popular toppings include sour cream, shredded cheese, diced avocado, chopped green onions, and tortilla strips for added crunch.

Yes! Skip the ground beef and add an extra can of beans or diced mushrooms for a hearty texture.

Combine tomato paste, broth, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, and flour in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Conclusion

We hope you’re as excited to try this chili recipe with enchilada sauce and ground beef as we are to share it! Its bold flavors and hearty ingredients make it a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends on social media—they’ll thank you for it! Be sure to follow us on our social channels for even more delicious ideas, tips, and inspiration. Happy cooking, and we can’t wait to see your amazing creations!