Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms you from the inside out, let me introduce you to my favorite dish: Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili. This hearty chili is a lifesaver on busy weeknights or during family gatherings. Packed with bold flavors and creamy cheese, it’s perfect for chilly days when all you want is something comforting and delicious.

What makes this recipe truly special is how easy it is to prepare. Just toss everything into your trusty slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you focus on other things. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in, this chili will bring smiles all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With minimal hands-on time, you can set it and forget it while your house fills with mouthwatering smells.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and creamy queso creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Family-Friendly: This chili is sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it an ideal dish for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize each bowl with your favorite toppings like avocado or Greek yogurt for extra flair and freshness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple, wholesome ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili. Most of these items are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up this hearty meal anytime!

Ingredients:
– 2 pounds ground beef (or use ground chicken or ground turkey)
– 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! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some corn or bell peppers for extra texture and nutrition.
• Make it spicier: For those who love heat, add more cayenne pepper or even some diced jalapeños!
• Go bean-free: If you’re not a fan of beans, leave them out for a thicker consistency that focuses more on the meatiness.

How to Make Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by browning your ground beef (or chosen protein) in a skillet over medium heat. This step adds depth to the flavor by caramelizing the meat slightly before adding it to the crockpot. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Prepare Your Veggies

In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onions and poblano peppers until they’re soft. This only takes about 5 minutes! Sautéing brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of your chili.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

Now it’s time to bring everything together! In your crockpot, combine the browned meat, sautéed veggies, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, green chilies, spices, hot sauce, butter, bay leaves, salt, and broth. Stir well to mix everything evenly.

Step 4: Let It Cook

Cover your crockpot and cook on low for about two hours. This slow cooking allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully. The aroma will tempt everyone as they wait!

Step 5: Creamy Finish

Once cooking time is up, stir in softened cream cheese until melted. Then add shredded cheddar cheese until it’s nice and gooey! This creamy finish elevates your chili into something truly special.

Step 6: Serve with Love

Ladle your Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili into bowls and top with cilantro and green onions. Don’t forget optional toppings like avocado slices or a dollop of Greek yogurt for that extra touch of goodness! Enjoy every warm spoonful with loved ones around you!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Creating the perfect bowl of Chili is all about enhancing flavors and textures, so here are some handy tips to elevate your dish!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and peppers will add a vibrant taste that dried or canned alternatives can’t match. Fresh produce helps to build a more complex flavor profile in your chili.

• Adjust the heat: If you prefer a milder chili, feel free to reduce the cayenne pepper or hot sauce. On the flip side, if you’re looking for an extra kick, add more chili powder or diced jalapeños for that fiery taste!

• Let it simmer longer: While two hours is great, letting your chili cook on low for up to four hours can deepen the flavors even more. The longer cooking time allows all of those delicious spices to meld together beautifully.

• Experiment with beans: While this recipe calls for mixed chili beans, feel free to substitute with black beans or kidney beans depending on your preference. Different beans bring unique flavors and textures to your dish.

• Top it off: Don’t skip on toppings! Fresh cilantro, green onions, avocado, and Greek yogurt not only add flavor but also give your chili a beautiful presentation. Plus, they enhance the overall creaminess and richness of each bowl.

How to Serve Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Serving your Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili can be just as fun as making it! Get creative with presentation and sides for a cozy meal that everyone will love.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that really brightens up the dish.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices provide a rich texture and balance out the spiciness of the chili perfectly.
• Greek Yogurt: Use this as a healthier alternative to sour cream; it adds creaminess while keeping things light.

Side Dishes

• Beef Broth Bread: This warm bread is perfect for dipping into your chili. Its hearty texture complements the rich flavors of the dish wonderfully.
• Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread pairs well with chili’s spiciness. It’s a classic combo that feels like home!
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: For an indulgent twist, serve alongside gooey grilled cheese sandwiches. The melty cheese makes every bite comforting.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up every last bit of chili while adding an enjoyable crunch to each bite.

Enjoy serving this hearty dish that warms you from the inside out during those chilly winter days!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is perfect for meal prep! It stores beautifully, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or cozy weekends.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label and date your containers to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool down before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• 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, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are a few common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use ground chicken instead of beef in the Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great alternative that will still provide wonderful flavor and texture to your chili.

How spicy is the Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?

The spiciness of this chili can be adjusted based on your preference. The cayenne pepper and hot sauce add heat, but you can reduce these amounts if you prefer a milder dish.

Can I make this Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili without cream cheese?

Yes! If you want a dairy-free option, simply omit the cream cheese or use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. The chili will still be tasty!

What toppings go well with Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?

Some great toppings include avocado slices, fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, and a dollop of Greek yogurt. Feel free to get creative with your favorites!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up a batch of this Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili! It’s not just about warming up on chilly days; it’s also about gathering loved ones around the table to share delicious food and stories. Enjoy making it and don’t hesitate to add your own twist! Happy cooking!