Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili
If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal to warm your heart on chilly days, then this Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is just what you need! This recipe has been a beloved staple in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The slow-cooker magic allows all the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Picture this: a big bowl of rich, cheesy chili topped with fresh cilantro and creamy avocado. It’s not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. You can set it in the morning and come home to a house that smells heavenly. Your family will thank you (and so will your taste buds)!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
- Family-Friendly: This chili is packed with flavor but not too spicy, making it perfect for kids and adults alike.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: A great dish to prepare in advance; just reheat leftovers for lunch or dinner!
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and cheese creates a comforting flavor that warms you from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making this recipe not only tasty but also a breeze to whip up. Let’s gather what you need to make your very own Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili!
For the Chili
- 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 best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian option.
- Add extra veggies: Toss in some corn or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
- Change up the cheese: Feel free to mix in different types of cheese like pepper jack for an extra kick!
- Make it spicier: If you love heat, add more cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños.
How to Make Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by chopping your onions and poblanos. Sautéing them briefly before adding them to the crockpot helps release their natural sweetness. This step isn’t mandatory but definitely enhances the overall flavor of our chili!
Step 2: Brown the Meat
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked. This step adds depth of flavor that makes your chili even more delicious. Once browned, drain any excess fat before transferring it to your crockpot.
Step 3: Combine Everything in the Crockpot
Add all remaining ingredients into your crockpot—onions, poblanos, spices, tomatoes, hot sauce, butter, bay leaves, broth, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and drained beans. Stir well so everything is evenly distributed. This is where all those wonderful flavors start coming together!
Step 4: Set It and Forget It
Cover your crockpot with its lid and set it on low heat for about two hours. During this time, take a moment to relax! The longer it cooks, the better it will taste as all those flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Serve It Up
When it’s done cooking, give your chili a good stir before serving. Remove the bay leaves—no one wants to bite into one of those! Ladle into bowls and top with fresh cilantro, green onions, avocado slices, and a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili! It’s sure to become a favorite in your home as much as it is in mine!
Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili
Making this hearty chili is a breeze with just a few handy tips!
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Use lean ground beef or alternatives: Choosing lean ground beef or ground chicken helps reduce excess grease, making your chili healthier and allowing the flavors of the spices to shine through.
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Prep ingredients ahead of time: Chopping onions and peppers in advance will save you time on cooking day. This way, you can simply toss everything into the crockpot and enjoy!
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Adjust spice levels to taste: If you prefer a milder chili, feel free to reduce the cayenne pepper and hot sauce. On the other hand, if you’re craving more heat, add some sliced jalapeños or extra hot sauce!
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Let it simmer longer: For an even richer flavor, consider letting your chili cook for an additional hour or two. The longer it simmers, the more the ingredients meld together for that perfect cozy taste.
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Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers (which is rare with this delicious dish!), let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days or can be frozen for a later date.
How to Serve Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili
Serving up this spicy queso beef chili is all about creating a warm and inviting experience. Whether it’s for family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, these ideas will help you present it beautifully!
Garnishes
- Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color.
- Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado complements the spiciness of the chili and provides a lovely contrast in texture.
- Green onions: Chopped green onions lend freshness and a mild onion flavor that enhances each bite.
Side Dishes
- Beef Broth Bread: This warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your chili, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with spicy chili, providing a delightful balance.
- Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are great for scooping up chili and add an extra layer of texture.
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to your rich chili.
With these serving suggestions, you’ll have everyone raving about your Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili! Enjoy every comforting bite on those chilly nights!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy hearty, delicious flavors throughout the week. You can store leftovers or make a big batch to freeze for later!
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Label the container with the date so you know when to use it by.
Freezing
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.
- Leave some space at the top of the container or bag for expansion as it freezes.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor, but it’s safe to eat beyond that time.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave for quicker thawing.
- Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
- Stir occasionally while reheating to ensure even warming.
FAQs
Have questions about this delicious recipe? Here are some common queries!
Can I make Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili with ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative that will still provide wonderful texture and flavor. Just follow the same cooking instructions.
What toppings go well with Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?
Some great toppings include fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, avocado, and a dollop of Greek yogurt. They add freshness and creaminess that perfectly complements the chili.
How spicy is this Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?
The spice level can be adjusted easily! If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the cayenne pepper and hot sauce. Conversely, add more if you enjoy extra heat!
Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute ground beef with black beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth. It will still be hearty and satisfying!
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile, making it a delightful choice for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do! It’s perfect for warming up on chilly days or sharing with loved ones. Dive into those rich flavors and have fun experimenting with your favorite toppings. Happy cooking!
Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Description
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili, perfect for chilly evenings. This hearty dish combines savory ground beef (or chicken), vibrant vegetables, and a creamy cheese blend, simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. With a delightful kick from spices and topped with fresh avocado and cilantro, this chili is a family favorite that’s simple to prepare. Just set it in the morning and come home to an inviting aroma and a satisfying meal ready to serve! Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this recipe offers versatility with ingredient swaps for your preference.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef (or ground chicken)
- 2 yellow onions, chopped
- 2 poblano peppers, seeded and chopped
- 28 oz crushed fire-roasted tomatoes
- 6 oz cream cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Chicken or beef broth
- Hot sauce
- Mixed chili beans
Instructions
- Chop onions and poblanos; optionally sauté them briefly to enhance sweetness.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat; drain excess fat.
- In the crockpot, combine all ingredients: onions, poblanos, spices, tomatoes, hot sauce, butter, bay leaves, broth, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and drained beans. Stir well.
- Cover and cook on low for about 2 hours.
- Before serving, stir the chili and remove bay leaves. Top with cilantro, green onions, avocado slices, and Greek yogurt.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
