Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is the perfect dish to warm you up during those chilly winter nights. This hearty chili combines tender beef with a blend of spices and creamy queso for an unforgettable flavor experience. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply looking for a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings for an added touch of flavor and texture!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simply toss all the ingredients into your crockpot and let it do the work for you!
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and cream cheese creates a deliciously rich and satisfying dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, with bread, or as a topping for nachos.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This chili is great for parties and gatherings—everyone loves a warm bowl of chili!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing spoon
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The heart of this recipe; it allows for low-and-slow cooking that enhances flavors.
• Cutting board & knife: Essential for prepping your vegetables efficiently.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate measurements of spices for balanced flavor.
• Ladle: Perfect for serving your chili without making a mess.

this recipe

Ingredients

Add a side of beef broth bread and toppings for the perfect bowl of winter chili on these coldest days of the year!

For the Chili Base

• 2 pounds ground beef (or use ground chicken or ground beef)
• 2 yellow onions, chopped
• 2 poblano peppers, seeded and chopped
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Sauce

• 1 can (28 ounce) crushed fire roasted tomatoes
• 1 can (8 ounce) tomato paste
• 1 can (4 ounce) diced green chilies
• 1/3 cup hot sauce
• 3 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt to taste

For Creaminess

• 2-3 cups chicken or beef broth
• 6 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

For Toppings

• 1 can mixed chili beans, drained
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• Avocado and Greek yogurt, for serving

How to Make Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the onions, poblano peppers, and any other desired toppings.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat before adding it to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add the browned meat to your slow cooker along with all chili base ingredients:
– Chopped onions
– Poblano peppers
– Chili powder
– Garlic powder
– Smoked paprika
– Ground cumin
– Cayenne pepper

Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, diced green chilies, hot sauce, butter, bay leaves, salt, and broth. Stir until well combined.

Step 4: Cook Your Chili

Cover your crockpot and cook on low heat for about 120 minutes. Stir occasionally if possible to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Add Creaminess

Once cooked through, add cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.

Step 6: Serve with Toppings

Ladle your Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili into bowls. Top with mixed chili beans, cilantro, green onions, avocado slices, and Greek yogurt as desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is a warm and hearty dish perfect for cold days. Serving it with the right accompaniments can elevate the experience and make your meal even more enjoyable.

Toppings

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
• Sliced Avocado: Add creamy avocado slices for richness.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a nice crunch and flavor contrast.
• Greek Yogurt: Use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to sour cream.

Bread Pairings

• Beef Broth Bread: Serve with warm beef broth bread for dipping and soaking up the flavors.
• Crusty Baguette: A crusty baguette is perfect for sopping up every bit of chili.

Salad Accompaniments

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens helps balance the richness of the chili.
• Corn Salad: A fresh corn salad adds sweetness and texture to your meal.

How to Perfect Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

To ensure your Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the flavor significantly.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding more or less cayenne pepper based on your preference.
• Cook Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat allows flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Stir Occasionally: If possible, give the chili a stir during cooking to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors of chili perfectly.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds a rich texture that balances the spiciness.
3. Nachos: Crispy tortilla chips topped with cheese and jalapeños make for a fun side dish.
4. Rice: Serve white or brown rice to soak up the delicious chili sauce.
5. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges provide a hearty side that pairs well with chili.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Filled with rice and beans, these can be a satisfying addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

• Overcooking the chili – Cooking too long can lead to mushy ingredients. Keep an eye on the time and check for tenderness after 120 minutes.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments – Each ingredient brings its own flavor. Taste throughout the process and adjust salt, hot sauce, or spices as needed.
• Using cold cream cheese – Cold cream cheese can clump when added directly. Make sure it’s at room temperature for a smooth blend.
• Skipping the bay leaves – These add depth to your chili. Remember to include them during cooking and remove before serving.
• Forgetting to drain beans – Canned beans often contain excess liquid that can dilute your chili’s flavor. Always drain and rinse them before adding.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• The chili can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in a covered dish until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili.

Can I use other meats besides beef?

Yes! Ground chicken or turkey makes excellent alternatives while still delivering great flavor.

How spicy is this Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?

The spiciness depends on the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce used. Adjust these according to your taste preference!

What toppings pair well with this recipe?

Popular toppings include avocado, fresh cilantro, green onions, and Greek yogurt for added creaminess.

How do I thicken my chili if it’s too watery?

You can simmer it uncovered for a while or add extra tomato paste. Cornstarch mixed with water also works well for thickening.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different beans or vegetables based on your preference. Try this comforting dish on chilly nights, and enjoy a hearty meal that warms you from the inside out!

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Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings. This hearty dish features tender ground beef simmered with aromatic spices and creamy cheese, delivering a rich and satisfying flavor profile. Perfect for game day gatherings or cozy family dinners, this chili is easy to prepare in your slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort. Top it off with fresh avocado, cilantro, and Greek yogurt for a delightful crunch and creaminess that will leave everyone craving more.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds ground beef (or ground chicken)
• 2 yellow onions, chopped
• 2 poblano peppers, seeded and chopped
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed fire-roasted tomatoes
• 6 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 3 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato paste
• 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
• 1/3 cup hot sauce
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt to taste
• 2–3 cups chicken or beef broth
• 1 can mixed chili beans, drained
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• Avocado and Greek yogurt, for serving

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Instructions

1. Chop the onions and poblano peppers.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
3. Combine the browned meat with onions, peppers, spices, crushed tomatoes, butter, bay leaves, hot sauce, salt, and broth in the crockpot.
4. Cover and cook on low heat for about 120 minutes.
5. Stir in cream cheese and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Serve hot with desired toppings like mixed beans, cilantro, green onions, avocado slices, or Greek yogurt.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 120 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 390
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 860mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: Adjust spice levels by varying the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce based on your preference. Add beans or vegetables to customize your chili. For an even richer flavor profile, consider sautéing your onions and peppers before adding them to the slow cooker.