Chili con carne enchiladas topped with melted cheese, served with sides and a drink.

How to Make Perfect Chili Con Carne Enchiladas from Scratch

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When it comes to Mexican comfort food, few dishes rival the rich and satisfying flavors of chili con carne enchiladas. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a hearty meal to impress your family, this classic recipe is a crowd-pleaser. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make chili con carne enchiladas from scratch, covering essential ingredients and step-by-step instructions. Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

What Are Chili Con Carne Enchiladas?

Chili con carne enchiladas combine two beloved staples of Mexican cuisine: the bold, meaty flavors of chili con carne and the comforting layers of cheesy, saucy enchiladas. Here’s what makes them special:

The Origin and History of Enchiladas

Enchiladas have their origins in ancient Mesoamerican cultures, where tortillas were filled and topped with chili sauces. Over time, the dish evolved, blending Spanish influences and regional flavors to become the enchiladas we enjoy today.

Key Ingredients of Chili Con Carne

Chili con carne, which translates to “chili with meat,” is a hearty stew crafted with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices such as cumin, chili powder, and paprika. This rich, savory filling creates the perfect base for enchiladas that are both satisfying and flavorful.

Why Chili Con Carne Makes the Perfect Filling

The flavorful spiced meat filling complements the tangy enchilada sauce and creamy melted cheese perfectly. It’s a combination that ensures every bite is packed with bold flavors and satisfying textures.

Essential Ingredients for Chili Con Carne Enchiladas

Before you get started, gather these ingredients to ensure your enchiladas come out perfect:

Ground Beef and Alternatives

Traditional chili con carne uses ground beef, but you can customize the recipe with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a vegetarian twist. Choose high-quality meat to enhance the flavor.

Red Chili Sauce

The sauce is the soul of enchiladas. You can choose a store-bought red chili sauce or prepare your own with dried chilies, garlic, onions, and spices. Homemade sauce allows you to adjust the spice level to your preference.

Tortillas: Corn vs. Flour

Corn tortillas are the traditional choice for enchiladas, offering a slightly nutty flavor and sturdy texture that holds up well during baking. Flour tortillas are a softer option but may become soggy if not handled carefully.

Cheese Choices

For the perfect gooey topping, go for a mix of shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, and a Mexican blend. If you want a more authentic flavor, try queso fresco or cotija as a garnish.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Perfect Chili Con Carne Enchiladas

Let’s break down the process into manageable steps to ensure your enchiladas turn out perfectly:

Preparing the Chili Con Carne Filling

chili con carne in a pot with ground beef, kidney beans, and tomato-based sauce.

  1. Cook the Meat: Heat a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of oil, and cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add Aromatics: Stir in chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until softened.
  3. Season Generously: Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano. Stir well to coat the meat.
  4. Simmer with Tomatoes and Beans: Add crushed tomatoes, a splash of beef broth, and kidney beans. Allow the mixture to simmer for 15-20 minutes to enhance its flavor.

Assembling the Enchiladas

  1. Prepare the Tortillas: Gently warm the corn tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave to make them soft and easy to handle.
  2. Fill and Roll: Add a generous spoonful of chili con carne to each tortilla, roll it up tightly, and place it seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
  3. Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour red chili sauce over the rolled tortillas, ensuring they are evenly coated. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top.

Baking to Perfection

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.

Garnishing Ideas

After removing the enchiladas from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh cilantro, diced onions, sliced jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream to enhance the flavor.

Tips, Tricks, and Serving Suggestions

Looking to elevate your chili con carne enchiladas? Here are some pro tips and serving ideas:

How to Avoid Soggy Enchiladas

  • Use slightly toasted or warmed tortillas to prevent them from absorbing too much sauce.
  • Avoid overfilling the tortillas to maintain their shape.
  • Serve immediately after baking to enjoy the best texture.

Pairing Ideas

Complement your enchiladas with classic Mexican sides:

  • Guacamole: Creamy and fresh, it balances the spiciness.
  • Mexican Rice: A flavorful carb that rounds out the meal.
  • Refried Beans: A satisfying side dish that compliments enchiladas perfectly.

Storing and Reheating Chili Con Carne Enchiladas

  • Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • Reheating: Cover with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This ensures the enchiladas don’t dry out.

Customizing for Dietary Preferences

  • To make a gluten-free version, opt for certified gluten-free corn tortillas and verify the labels on your chili sauce.
  • For a dairy-free option, omit the cheese or substitute it with a plant-based alternative.

Recipe: Chili Con Carne Enchiladas

Ingredients:

  • For the Chili Con Carne:
    • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or substitute with turkey or plant-based meat)
    • 1 small onion, finely chopped
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 bell pepper, diced
    • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
    • 1/2 cup beef broth
    • 1 (14 oz) can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
    • 1 tbsp chili powder
    • 1 tsp cumin
    • 1 tsp paprika
    • 1/2 tsp oregano
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Enchiladas:
    • 10-12 corn tortillas
    • 2 cups red chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
    • 2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
    • Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, sour cream, diced onions, and sliced jalapeños

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chili Con Carne: Follow the instructions above to cook the ground beef, add aromatics, season, and simmer with tomatoes and beans.
  2. Warm the Tortillas: Heat the tortillas in a skillet or microwave until pliable.
  3. Assemble the Enchiladas: Spoon the chili con carne into each tortilla, roll them tightly, and arrange them in a greased baking dish.
  4. Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour the red chili sauce over the tortillas and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
  5. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and place it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Let the enchiladas cool slightly, then garnish with your choice of toppings and serve hot.

Conclusion

Chili con carne enchiladas are more than a meal—they’re a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures. With this guide, you can craft a dish that’s both delicious and easily customizable to suit any taste. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to wow your taste buds and your guests!

We’d love to see your culinary creations—share them with us in the comments below. If you loved this recipe, explore more of our Mexican-inspired dishes and make every meal a fiesta. Happy cooking!