Chile Colorado
Chile Colorado is a hearty, flavorful Mexican dish with tender beef simmered in a rich chili sauce, perfect for comforting family meals or gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the enchilada sauce and cream of mushroom soup together in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture over the lean stew meat in the crock-pot.
- Cook until the meat is tender, approximately 4 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a combination of beef chuck and sirloin for a tender texture. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade roux or a dairy-free alternative. Feel free to add your favorite peppers for extra flavor or spice. For a twist, consider pairing with a side of Taco Bean Salad for a hearty meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chile Colorado with warm tortillas or over rice for a complete meal. It pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. For added flair, top with diced onions, cilantro, or sliced avocados. This dish also complements Mexican recipes like Frito Casserole for a satisfying family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until heated through, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chile Colorado contains roughly 93 calories, with 2g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the lean stew meat with chicken thighs or pork if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken will cook faster than beef. For a vegetarian option, consider using jackfruit or hearty mushrooms to mimic the texture.
Is it possible to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! To increase the heat, add chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. You can also use a spicier enchilada sauce or add crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, Chile Colorado freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).