Cheesy Enchilada Chili

Cheesy Enchilada Chili is a rich and comforting dish, combining the flavors of chili with the creamy, cheesy goodness of enchiladas. It’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy meal. Here’s a delicious recipe for it:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken for a lighter version)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can enchilada sauce (red or green, based on preference)
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning)
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
• 1 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
• Tortilla chips, for topping (optional)
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Brown the meat:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or other meat) and cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat if needed.

2. Cook the vegetables:
   Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables soften.

3. Add seasonings and sauce:
   Stir in the taco seasoning, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the spices toast for about 1 minute. Then, pour in the enchilada sauce, diced tomatoes (with juices), beans, green chilies (if using), and corn. Stir to combine everything.

4. Simmer the chili:
   Bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat and let it cook uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and thicken the chili.

5. Add cheese:
   Once the chili has thickened to your desired consistency, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed.

6. Serve:
   Ladle the chili into bowls. Top with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and some crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.

This Cheesy Enchilada Chili is perfect for a hearty, flavorful meal, and it can be served with a side of cornbread or over rice for an even more filling dish. Enjoy!