Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Can opener
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let me tell you, the first step in making Cheesy Enchilada Chili is to sauté the aromatics, and this sets the entire tone for the dish. I start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in my trusty large pot over medium heat. The moment the onion hits the oil, I can almost feel my kitchen perk up with excitement. I add the diced onion and let it cook for about five minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s soft and translucent. Then, I toss in three cloves of minced garlic—this is where the magic happens. I only let it cook for about a minute until fragrant; if you leave it too long, you risk burning the garlic, and trust me, no one wants that!
While those flavors meld, I introduce the protein. I usually use ground beef, but turkey works just as well if I’m in a healthy mood. I brown the meat in the pot with the onions and garlic, breaking it up with my spatula. As it cooks, the rich aroma fills my kitchen, making it downright challenging to not sneak a bite. After about 7-10 minutes, when there’s no pink left, it’s time to kick things up a notch. I drain any excess fat and then dive into the spices! Chili powder, cumin, and paprika create a perfect symphony of flavors. I let those toast for a minute, and oh boy, it elevates the dish immediately!
Next, I add in the canned goods—the black beans, kidney beans, and diced tomatoes with green chilies—allowing them to tumble into the pot like a celebration. I can almost hear the beans saying, “Let’s party!” Then, I pour in two cups of broth, followed by a cup of corn. This is a crucial moment: I give it all a good stir, letting the colorful ingredients mingle together. As it simmers and bubbles, I can’t help but sneak a taste, adjusting the salt and pepper to my liking. It simmers for about 20 minutes, which gives me just enough time to clean up some of the mess I’ve made. (See the next page below to continue…)