Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is the ultimate comfort food for chilly nights. This hearty chili combines savory ground beef with a blend of spices and creamy queso, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Its rich flavors, combined with the ease of slow cooking, make this dish a staple for any occasion, from game days to family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Just toss everything into your crockpot and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and cheeses creates a deep, satisfying taste that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile: Customize your chili by adding your favorite toppings like avocado or Greek yogurt.
• Feeding a Crowd: This recipe yields plenty, making it perfect for parties or meal prep for the week.
• Comforting and Hearty: The blend of meat, beans, and cheese ensures every bite is filling and delicious.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this flavorful recipe, gather your tools to make the cooking process seamless. Having everything ready will help you enjoy the experience even more.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Large mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for developing deep flavors while allowing you to walk away while it cooks.
• Chopping board: Provides a safe surface for cutting your vegetables without damaging countertops.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

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

For the Meat Base

• 2 pounds ground beef (or use ground chicken)
• 2 yellow onions, chopped
• 2 poblano peppers, seeded and chopped

For the Spices

• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

For the Tomato Base

• 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

For Cooking

• 3 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt to taste
• 2-3 cups chicken or beef broth

For Creaminess

• 6 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

For Serving

• 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 Your Ingredients

Start by chopping all your vegetables. Dice the onions and poblano peppers finely so they cook evenly in the slow cooker.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Add the ground beef.
2. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
3. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

In your slow cooker:
1. Add browned beef along with onions and poblano peppers.
2. Mix in all spices—chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, diced green chilies, hot sauce, butter, bay leaves, salt, and broth.

Step 4: Cook on Low

Set your crockpot to low:
– Cook for about 120 minutes or until all ingredients are well combined and heated through.

Step 5: Add Creaminess

Once cooked:
1. Stir in cream cheese until melted.
2. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese while stirring until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Final Touches

Before serving:
– Remove bay leaves.
– Adjust seasoning if needed.

Enjoy your Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili with fresh toppings like cilantro, green onions, avocado, or Greek yogurt!

How to Serve Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is a hearty dish that warms you up on cold winter days. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your chili experience.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Avocado – Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the spice.
• Greek Yogurt – Use it as a healthier alternative to sour cream for a tangy finish.

Pair with Crunchy Sides

• Tortilla Chips – Serve alongside crispy chips for dipping and added texture.
• Cornbread – A slice of sweet cornbread complements the flavors perfectly.

Enjoy with Beverages

• Beer – A chilled beer enhances the meal’s flavors and makes it feel festive.
• Lemonade – The refreshing taste contrasts nicely with the spiciness of the chili.

How to Perfect Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Creating the perfect bowl of Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is all about technique. Here are some tips to ensure your chili is top-notch.

• Use Quality Meat – Choosing fresh ground beef or chicken enhances flavor and texture.
• Chop Vegetables Evenly – Uniform pieces ensure even cooking and consistent taste.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Feel free to modify cayenne pepper based on your heat preference.
• Simmer Longer for Flavor – Allowing the chili to cook longer deepens its flavor profile.
• Incorporate Fresh Herbs Last – Add cilantro and green onions just before serving for vibrant freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

A warm bowl of Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great options that complement this savory meal.

1. Beer Bread – This slightly sweet bread is perfect for sopping up chili.
2. Rice – Serve over cooked rice to absorb the flavorful broth.
3. Salad – A fresh garden salad adds a crunchy contrast to the rich chili.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – The gooey cheese pairs wonderfully with the spicy chili.
5. Stuffed Peppers – These can be filled with rice and beans, providing extra heartiness.
6. Baked Potatoes – Top baked potatoes with chili for a filling twist on a classic comfort food.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the meat: Ground beef can become tough if cooked too long. Use the recommended cooking time for the best texture.
• Skipping the seasoning prep: Failing to properly sauté onions and peppers can lead to bland chili. Always take the time to cook these ingredients first for a flavor boost.
• Ignoring consistency: If your chili is too thick, add more broth gradually until you reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a while.
• Not letting it rest: Serving immediately can result in flavors not melding well. Allowing it to sit for a few minutes enhances taste.
• Using low-quality cheese: Lower quality cheeses may not melt well and can affect texture. Opt for fresh shredded cheddar for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to keep your Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili fresh.

Freezing Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

• Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space at the top for expansion.

Reheating Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently and heat until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili.

Can I use other types of meat in this Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?

Yes! You can substitute ground chicken or turkey if you prefer a lighter option.

How spicy is this chili?

The spice level depends on your use of cayenne pepper and hot sauce. Adjust these ingredients according to your taste preference.

What toppings go well with this chili?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, avocado, Greek yogurt, cilantro, and green onions!

Can I make this vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! Swap out ground beef for lentils or mushrooms and use plant-based cream cheese.

What sides pair well with Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?

Beer bread is an excellent choice, but cornbread or rice also complements this dish nicely!

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience perfect for winter days. Its rich flavors can be customized with various toppings and sides. Don’t hesitate to explore different ingredients or spice levels to make it your own!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x

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Description

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is the ultimate comfort food for chilly nights, combining savory ground beef with a rich blend of spices and creamy queso. This hearty dish is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, offering deep flavors that warm you from the inside out. With minimal preparation and the convenience of slow cooking, this chili becomes a staple for any occasion, from game days to family dinners. Top it with your favorite garnishes like avocado or Greek yogurt for an added twist!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 2 yellow onions, chopped
• 2 poblano peppers, chopped
• 28 ounces crushed fire-roasted tomatoes
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 ounces cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 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
• 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. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat; drain excess fat.
2. In the crockpot, combine browned beef with chopped onions and poblano peppers.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and all spices; mix well.
4. Pour in broth and hot sauce; stir to combine.
5. Cook on low for approximately 120 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve with desired toppings such as avocado or cilantro.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg