Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

If you’re looking for a warm and hearty meal to brighten up those chilly days, you’ve come to the right place! This Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili has quickly become a favorite in my household. It’s not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or simply trying to feed your family on a busy weeknight, this chili fits the bill perfectly. The spicy kick combined with creamy queso makes for a comforting bowl that everyone will love!

What makes this recipe special is how it brings everyone together. Picture this: you walk into your kitchen after a long day, and the rich aroma of chili greets you. All you have to do is serve it up with some toppings, and you’re ready for a cozy dinner that feels like a warm hug.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy Preparation: Just toss everything into your crockpot, and let it do the work for you!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: With its cheesy goodness and mild heat, this chili appeals to kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Endless Topping Options: Customize each bowl with fun toppings like avocado, Greek yogurt, or fresh cilantro.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in the slow cooker. You probably have many of these items in your pantry already!

Ingredients:
– 2 pounds ground beef (or use ground chicken)
– 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
– 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)
– 2-3 cups chicken or beef broth
– 6 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 can mixed chili beans, drained
– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– avocado and Greek yogurt, for serving

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some corn, zucchini, or carrots for extra nutrition.
• Change up the spices: Experiment with different spices like oregano or chipotle powder to mix up the flavor profile.
• Make it milder: If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the cayenne pepper and hot sauce for a more subtle heat.

How to Make Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. This step adds depth of flavor through caramelization. Once browned, drain any excess fat before transferring it to your crockpot.

Step 2: Chop and Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onions and poblano peppers until they soften. This enhances their sweetness and makes them meld beautifully into the chili.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to combine all your ingredients! In your crockpot, add the browned meat along with sautéed veggies. Then pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, diced green chilies, hot sauce, butter, bay leaves, broth, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and chili beans. Stir until everything is well mixed.

Step 4: Season It Up!

Sprinkle in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, and salt. These spices are what make this chili truly flavorful. Don’t forget to taste as you go!

Step 5: Let It Cook

Cover your crockpot and set it on low for about two hours. This slow cooking process allows all those wonderful flavors to develop fully—trust me; it’s worth the wait!

Step 6: Serve with Toppings

Once it’s done cooking, give your chili a good stir. Ladle it into bowls and top with fresh cilantro, green onions, avocado slices, or a dollop of Greek yogurt. Enjoy every warm bite!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll make your chili even more scrumptious!

• Choose Your Meat Wisely: Opting for ground beef gives you that classic hearty flavor, but switching to ground chicken or turkey can lighten the dish while still keeping it satisfying.

• Spice It Up: Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your heat tolerance. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a pinch more for an extra kick!

• Layer Your Flavors: Sautéing onions and peppers before adding them to the crockpot enhances their sweetness and depth. This step is simple but makes a world of difference.

• Let It Simmer: Allowing the chili to cook longer will meld the flavors beautifully. If time permits, let it cook on low for an extra hour for maximum taste!

• Creamy Consistency: To make your chili even creamier, whisk in a little extra cream cheese just before serving. It adds richness and keeps the dish velvety.

How to Serve Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Serving this delicious chili can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to ensure your guests enjoy every last spoonful.

Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a refreshing pop of color and flavor.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions bring a mild onion flavor and crunch that balances the richness of the chili.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices not only enhance the texture but also add a healthy fat component that complements the spices.

Side Dishes

• Beef Broth Bread: This warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every bit of chili goodness. Its savory flavor pairs wonderfully with the spice of your dish.
• Cornbread: A classic side that adds a touch of sweetness, cornbread is fantastic for balancing out the heat from your spicy chili.
• Tortilla Chips: Crispy tortilla chips offer a delightful crunch and are perfect for dipping or topping off your bowl of chili.
• Side Salad: A light side salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty flavors of your chili.

Enjoy serving up this comforting, warming bowl of Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili on chilly days! It’s sure to become a family favorite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is not only a delicious meal but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make this chili in advance, ensuring you have hearty portions ready for busy days or cozy nights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the chili to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Leave some space at the top of each container, as the chili will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Have some questions about making this delicious chili? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use other meats instead of ground beef for Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground chicken or even turkey. This recipe is versatile and will still turn out delicious with your preferred choice of meat.

How spicy is Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your taste! The cayenne pepper and hot sauce give it a kick, but you can reduce these ingredients if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the meat and replace it with lentils or extra beans for protein. You might want to add more seasonings to enhance the flavors.

What toppings go well with Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?

Toppings like avocado, Greek yogurt, fresh cilantro, and chopped green onions complement this dish beautifully. Feel free to get creative!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili as much as I do! It’s such a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for sharing on chilly evenings. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!