When comfort food meets bold flavor, magic happens-enter the world of Hearty Chili Delight, where succulent ground beef simmers in a rich, tangy enchilada sauce to create a dish that’s both satisfying and vibrant. This fusion of classic chili heartiness with the zesty, complex notes of enchilada sauce transforms a simple meal into an unforgettable experience. Weather you’re craving a cozy dinner on a chilly night or searching for a crowd-pleaser that packs a punch, this recipe offers a deliciously easy way to elevate your weeknight table with every spoonful. Join us as we explore the art of crafting this savory masterpiece, perfect for food lovers who appreciate bold flavors and hearty satisfaction in every bite.
Hearty Chili Delight: Ground Beef with Enchilada Sauce
Hearty chili delight begins with a perfectly crafted ground beef base that breathes life into every spoonful. This dish, a comforting embrace of rich meatiness mingled with the bold, smoky essence of enchilada sauce, transforms a humble chili into a celebration of deep, satisfying flavors. Originating from southwestern American and mexican fusion cuisine, this chili captures the spirit of home-cooked warmth with a modern, flavorful twist - making it a beloved classic on chilly evenings and festive gatherings alike.
Prep and Cook Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 45 minutes
- total Time: 1 hour
Yield
Serves 6 hearty portions
Difficulty Level
Easy to Medium – perfect for home cooks eager to master bold flavors with simple steps
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef, preferably 80/20 for rich flavor
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup enchilada sauce, store-bought or homemade for an authentic touch
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for extra heat)
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and jalapeño (if using), stirring constantly to prevent burning. Cook for 1 minute until aromatic.
- introduce the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Sauté until browned evenly and no pink remains, about 7-8 minutes.Drain excess fat if necessary to avoid a greasy chili base.
- Season the beef with ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat all the meat and allow the spices to bloom for 2 minutes.
- Pour in the enchilada sauce and beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to lift any flavorful browned bits. Add diced tomatoes and kidney beans.Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes.This slow simmer melds the rich flavors, letting the enchilada sauce permeate every bite. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust seasoning at the end – add more salt, pepper, or chili powder to suit your taste preference.
- Serve hot garnished with fresh cilantro and shredded cheddar cheese if desired for a creamy contrast.
tips for Success
- For a deeper flavor, brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
- Use a cast iron or heavy-bottomed pot to achieve an even, rich browning on the ground beef.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, but expect a milder profile – consider boosting spices accordingly.
- Make-ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day. Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- For a smoky depth,add a splash of chipotle in adobo or a dash of smoked sea salt.
- Keep jalapeños or hot sauce on hand to balance spice levels based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty chili delight is best enjoyed warm and cozy. Serve over fluffy white rice or with crisp tortilla chips for crunch. For an added texture contrast, top with diced avocado or a dollop of sour cream. Complement the meal with a side of cornbread or a fresh green avocado salad for balance.
Nutritional Data per Serving
| Calories | Protein | Carbohydrates | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|
| 360 kcal | 28 g | 20 g | 18 g |
Looking to further explore hearty comfort foods? Check out our slow Cooker Beef Stew for another rich, flavorful meal idea. For in-depth information on chili peppers and their culinary uses, visit PepperScale.
Q&A
Q&A: Hearty Chili Delight – Ground Beef with Enchilada sauce
Q1: What makes “Hearty Chili Delight” different from customary chili recipes?
A1: Unlike a classic chili that leans heavily on tomatoes and beans, this recipe incorporates savory enchilada sauce, infusing the dish with a rich, smoky depth and a slight kick of spice. The enchilada sauce elevates the ground beef with layers of complex flavors that make every bite a comforting, mouthwatering experience.
Q2: Can I use other types of meat besides ground beef?
A2: Absolutely! While ground beef offers a hearty, familiar base, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes work wonderfully. Each option brings its own texture and flavor twist-turkey adds a lighter touch, while plant-based options cater to vegetarian or vegan preferences when paired with suitable sauces.
Q3: How spicy is this chili? Will it suit a mild palate?
A3: The spice level largely depends on the enchilada sauce you choose. Many store-bought versions range from mild to medium heat, but you can recommend a milder sauce or reduce any added chili powders to keep it kind for sensitive taste buds.You can also balance spice by adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese.
Q4: What are some great sides or toppings to serve with this chili?
A4: This chili pairs beautifully with classic accompaniments like warm cornbread or tortilla chips for crunch. Toppings such as shredded cheese, chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime brighten the dish and add exciting textures. For a zesty twist, a spoonful of pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce can be added.
Q5: Can I prepare this chili in advance or freeze leftovers?
A5: Definitely! This hearty chili actually benefits from sitting overnight, allowing the flavors to meld even deeper. It freezes exceptionally well-portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to maintain its luscious consistency.
Q6: Is this recipe healthy, or can it be made healthier?
A6: The dish is rich in protein and can be tailored to fit various nutritional goals. Using lean ground beef or turkey reduces fat content, and loading up on veggies like bell peppers, onions, or beans boosts fiber and vitamins. For a lighter twist,try swapping half the meat for mushrooms or lentils-this adds volume and nutrients without sacrificing heartiness.
Q7: How long does it take to cook Hearty Chili Delight?
A7: From start to finish,including sautéing the meat and simmering the chili to develop flavors,expect about 30 to 40 minutes. It’s a wonderfully quick recipe for a flavorful weeknight dinner that feels indulgent but comes together in a snap.
Q8: What inspired the combination of ground beef and enchilada sauce?
A8: The inspiration comes from melding two beloved comfort foods-hearty chili and rich enchiladas.Combining the robust,meaty foundation of ground beef with the tangy,spiced notes of enchilada sauce creates a fusion that’s familiar yet refreshingly bold.It’s comfort food reinvented with a creative twist for those craving something homely yet exciting.
to sum up
In the world of comfort foods, few dishes combine ease, flavor, and warmth quite like this hearty chili delight.By melding the rich taste of ground beef with the bold, tangy punch of enchilada sauce, you create a meal that’s both familiar and exciting-perfect for cozy nights or casual gatherings. Whether you’re new to chili recipes or looking to spice up your dinner rotation, this fusion invites you to savor every spoonful with satisfaction and a hint of adventure. So next time hunger calls, remember: sometimes the simplest ingredients, when paired thoughtfully, become the most unforgettable meals.
