Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas

When it comes to comfort food that’s bold, cheesy, and satisfying, Tex-Mex beef enchiladas are hard to beat. Rooted in the fusion of Texas and Mexican culinary traditions, this dish brings together the best of both worlds. With its layers of warm corn tortillas, rich beef chili, and gooey cheddar cheese, all smothered in a spicy Tex-Mex enchilada sauce, this recipe is as comforting as it is flavorful.

This version of chili cheese enchiladas is especially beloved for its simplicity. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd for game day, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. The recipe uses pantry staples like canned beef chili and a quick homemade chili sauce, making it a go-to for busy home cooks.

Unlike traditional Mexican enchiladas that often use a red chili sauce with dried chiles, this Tex-Mex version features a roux-based sauce thickened with flour and beef broth. If you’re interested in learning more about the culinary roots of this style, Tex-Mex cuisine offers a rich history that explains its spicy, cheesy evolution. You might also explore our internal guide on Authentic vs Tex-Mex Enchiladas to see how ingredients and techniques differ.

This dish is not only easy to make but also highly customizable. Add-ins like jalapeños, green chilies, or even black olives can take your enchiladas to the next level. Top with fresh ingredients like chopped green onions, sour cream, or even diced avocados for contrast and freshness. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced home chef, this Tex-Mex dinner will earn a spot in your regular recipe rotation. Plus, if you’re looking to expand your side dish repertoire, this Mexican rice side dish from Pinterest is the perfect pairing.

What Are Chili Cheese Enchiladas?

Chili cheese enchiladas are a beloved staple of Tex-Mex cuisine, combining layers of rich flavors in one delicious, oven-baked dish. At their core, enchiladas are rolled tortillas filled with a savory mixture—commonly ground beef, cheese, and onions—then topped with sauce and more cheese before being baked until bubbly and golden. This particular variation uses beef chili and a robust Tex-Mex enchilada sauce, offering a hearty, spicy twist on the traditional version.

Unlike classic Mexican enchiladas that may feature ingredients like queso fresco and mole sauce, Tex-Mex enchiladas are heavier, cheesier, and often topped with ingredients like shredded cheddar, sour cream, and jalapeños. These elements cater to the American palate while still honoring Mexican culinary roots. You can learn more about the foundational dish by visiting Enchilada on Wikipedia.

One of the defining characteristics of chili cheese enchiladas is their layered flavor profile:

• Tortillas (usually corn) form the base, lightly fried to prevent sogginess.

• Filling typically includes cheese, onions, and sometimes seasoned ground beef.

• Beef chili, such as chili con carne, is spooned over the enchiladas, adding depth and spice.

• Tex-Mex enchilada sauce is poured on top for that signature kick.

• Cheese, of course, is generously layered over everything.

If you’re new to making enchiladas or looking to perfect your version, be sure to avoid common mistakes like skipping the tortilla fry step or overfilling the rolls. We cover more on that in our Step-by-Step Enchilada Assembly Guide. For visual inspiration, check out this collection of Tex-Mex dinner ideas to spark your creativity.

Ultimately, chili cheese enchiladas are more than just a recipe—they’re a celebration of bold spices, comforting textures, and the irresistible fusion of two rich culinary traditions.

Ingredients Breakdown

Creating delicious chili cheese enchiladas starts with understanding each component. This recipe uses simple ingredients that, when combined, deliver bold Tex-Mex flavor. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why each element matters.

For the Enchiladas

• Corn tortillas (10 count)
  Corn tortillas are traditional and offer better structure than flour tortillas when baked. They also bring a subtle earthy flavor that complements the spices. Lightly frying them prevents tearing and sogginess during baking.

• Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups for filling + 1 cup for topping)
  Cheddar melts well and adds sharpness, making it ideal for Tex-Mex dishes. You can also blend it with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor.

• Small onion, finely chopped
  Onions add sweetness and depth to the filling. Sautéing them before rolling into the tortillas enhances their flavor and texture.

• 1 can (15 oz) beef chili (no beans)
  Canned beef chili like chili con carne adds a rich, meaty layer that intensifies the dish. Look for no-bean varieties for a smoother texture.

• Olive oil (1 tablespoon)
  Used to lightly fry tortillas for better texture and flavor.

Explore more variations of chili fillings by visiting our internal post on Creative Tex-Mex Fillings, where we explore vegetarian and spicy options too.

For the Tex-Mex Chili Sauce

• All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons)
  Combined with oil to create a roux, this thickens the sauce for a velvety finish. Learn more about this technique from the Roux Wikipedia entry.

• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
  Used with flour to make the base of the sauce and ensure a smooth, glossy texture.

• Chili powder (1 tablespoon)
  Brings heat and smokiness. This is a key element in most Tex-Mex sauces, often blended with other spices for depth.

• Ground cumin (1 teaspoon)
  Offers a warm, earthy note typical of Tex-Mex cuisine. Read more about its origins in this Cumin article.

• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
  Adds a base flavor that supports the chili and cumin.

• Beef broth (1½ cups)
  Rich and savory, it forms the liquid base for the sauce. You can substitute with chicken or vegetable broth if needed.

• Salt to taste
  Enhances all the spices and rounds out the flavors.

Want to try a variation of this sauce? This homemade enchilada sauce recipe on Pinterest provides a visual guide for alternative spice ratios and techniques.

For the Toppings

• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup)
  Adds a final melty, golden layer on top.

• Chopped green onions (optional)
  Offer freshness and a pop of color.

• Sour cream (optional)
  Provides creamy contrast to the heat of the enchilada sauce.

Each of these ingredients contributes to the dish’s balance of textures and flavors. You can easily customize them based on what’s in your pantry or your spice preference. For example, swap in ground turkey, black beans, or roasted vegetables for the filling. If you’re watching calories, check out our upcoming section on How to Lighten Up Tex-Mex Dishes.

Ready to start cooking? Make sure to prep all ingredients before assembly for a smoother kitchen experience.

How to Make Chili Cheese Enchiladas – Step-by-Step Instructions

Mastering chili cheese enchiladas is simple with the right technique. Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you prepare this comforting Tex-Mex dinner from start to finish. Following these steps ensures a perfect balance of texture, spice, and melt-in-your-mouth goodness.

1. Prepare the Tex-Mex Enchilada Sauce

Start by making the sauce so it has time to thicken while you prep the rest of the dish.

• In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil and 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for 1 minute to form a light roux.

• Stir in 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder.

• Slowly add 1½ cups beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

• Simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Add salt to taste.

• Set aside to cool slightly. For more details on how to properly build a roux, refer to the Roux entry on Wikipedia.

This sauce serves as the flavor-packed backbone of the dish, rich in Tex-Mex spices and umami depth. You can explore more sauce variations in our guide to Building Bold Tex-Mex Sauces.

2. Lightly Fry the Corn Tortillas

Frying the tortillas prevents sogginess and tearing.

• Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

• Lightly fry each corn tortilla for 5–10 seconds per side until soft and pliable.

• Drain on paper towels. This step is essential for preserving structure when the tortillas are baked.

3. Assemble the Enchiladas

This is where everything comes together.

• Spread a thin layer of the chili sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

• Place a spoonful of finely chopped onion and a small handful of shredded cheddar cheese in the center of each tortilla.

• Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the dish.

• Once all tortillas are rolled and placed, pour the entire 15 oz can of beef chili evenly over the top.

• Then pour the prepared enchilada sauce over everything, spreading it to cover the enchiladas fully.

4. Add Cheese and Bake

• Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

• Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until hot, bubbly, and slightly golden on the edges.

Check out this Tex-Mex dinner board on Pinterest for plating ideas and serving inspiration.

5. Garnish and Serve

• Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.

• Top with chopped green onions, sour cream, and optional jalapeños or diced avocado for extra freshness and flavor.

• Pair with sides like Spanish rice, refried beans, or a zesty salad for a full Tex-Mex experience.

This process ensures that every bite is bursting with spice, cheese, and comforting textures. Want a visual breakdown? Our Enchilada Preparation Tutorial includes images and tips for beginners.

Why This Recipe Works

This chili cheese enchiladas recipe is a weeknight hero and a crowd-pleaser, thanks to its smart ingredient choices and straightforward method. Every step is designed to deliver maximum Tex-Mex flavor with minimum effort. Here’s why this recipe is a standout:

• Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
  This dish uses accessible items like canned beef chili, corn tortillas, and cheddar cheese—all staples that are easy to keep on hand. The sauce is made from basic spices and beef broth, so no specialty store runs required.

• Homemade sauce, big flavor
  The quick homemade Tex-Mex enchilada sauce adds a depth of flavor that canned versions can’t match. Building a roux with flour and oil, then layering in bold spices like chili powder and cumin, creates a rich and spicy base that ties the dish together.

• Versatility and customization
  Whether you want to add heat with jalapeños, swap in ground turkey, or mix cheeses like Monterey Jack and pepper jack, this recipe adapts easily. For inspiration, browse our internal guide on Tex-Mex Enchilada Customizations, where we explore dozens of ways to tweak the dish.

• Perfect for prep and leftovers
  These enchiladas hold up beautifully in the fridge and freezer. Make a big batch and enjoy effortless lunches or dinners all week. Learn more about freezing tips in our upcoming section on Storage and Reheating.

• Family-friendly comfort food
  Kids love the cheesy, saucy layers, and adults appreciate the spice and texture. Serve it with a side of Mexican rice and a simple salad to complete the meal.

Ultimately, this recipe delivers big flavor in every bite without overcomplicating the process. That’s the beauty of Tex-Mex cooking: bold, satisfying, and always approachable.