Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is the perfect dish to warm you up during cold weather. This rich and flavorful chili combines tender beef with a blend of spices and creamy cheese for a comforting meal. Ideal for game nights, family gatherings, or cozy dinners, this recipe is sure to impress. With its easy preparation in a slow cooker, you can enjoy a hearty bowl without spending all day in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the work while you relax.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and melted cheese creates a deliciously satisfying taste.
• Versatile Toppings: Customize your chili with toppings like avocado, Greek yogurt, or fresh cilantro.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Serve this chili at parties or family meals; it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
• Hearty and Filling: A complete meal packed with protein and flavor that will keep you full.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools! Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking; just set it and forget it until mealtime.
• Chef’s Knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables for even cooking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Guarantees accurate ingredient amounts for balanced flavors.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

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 Tomato Mixture

• 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 Topping

• 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

Start by chopping your vegetables. Dice the onions and peppers to ensure they cook evenly.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Cook the ground beef until browned.
2. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Add to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients

In the slow cooker:
1. Add onions, poblano peppers, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper.
2. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, green chilies, hot sauce, butter, bay leaves, salt, and broth.
3. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Cook on Low Heat

Set your slow cooker to low:
– Cook for about 120 minutes or until heated through.

Step 5: Add Creaminess

About 20 minutes before serving:
1. Stir in cream cheese until melted.
2. Add shredded cheddar cheese gradually while mixing.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked:
– Remove bay leaves before serving.
– Ladle into bowls topped with mixed chili beans, cilantro, green onions, avocado, and Greek yogurt.

Enjoy your hearty Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili!

How to Serve Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Serving Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is an exciting way to bring warmth and flavor to your table. With a variety of toppings and side options, you can customize each bowl for a delightful experience.

Toppings

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
• Chopped Green Onions: Add sliced green onions for a mild onion flavor and crunch.
• Avocado: Creamy avocado slices balance the heat of the chili.
• Greek Yogurt: Use Greek yogurt as a healthy alternative to sour cream for creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: A sweet and fluffy cornbread pairs perfectly with spicy chili.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips add texture and are perfect for scooping.
• Rice: Serve over a bed of rice for a filling meal.
• Salad: A light salad provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili.

How to Perfect Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

To elevate your Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili, consider these tips that enhance flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the overall taste and nutrition of the chili.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce based on your heat preference.
• Let it Simmer: Allowing the chili to cook longer enhances flavors; keep it on low for extra time if possible.
• Stir Occasionally: Stirring helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking throughout.

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 delicious ideas:

1. Cheesy Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with melted cheese and garlic butter is irresistible.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette adds brightness to your meal.
3. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be loaded up with chili for an extra hearty option.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and balances the richness of the chili.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa offer a nutritious side option.
6. Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies served with dip provide a healthy crunch alongside your chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili, avoiding these common mistakes can elevate your dish.

• Overloading with spices: Too much spice can overpower the flavors. Start with recommended amounts and adjust to your taste gradually.
• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the beef or vegetables first can lead to less flavor. Take the time to brown them in a skillet before adding to the crockpot.
• Neglecting to drain beans: Failing to drain canned beans can make your chili watery. Always drain and rinse canned beans before adding them to the mix.
• Not adjusting for thickness: If your chili is too thick, add more broth gradually. If it’s too thin, let it cook uncovered for a while to thicken.
• Ignoring resting time: Skipping rest time after cooking can dull flavors. Letting it sit allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 4 days.

Freezing Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a saucepan over medium heat, stir occasionally until hot, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What makes Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili spicy?

The combination of chili powder, cayenne pepper, and hot sauce adds the heat. Adjust these ingredients based on your spice tolerance.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Ground chicken is a great alternative and will still provide delicious results in this chili recipe.

How do I make Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, replace ground beef with lentils or black beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.

How long does it take to cook in the crockpot?

This chili typically takes around 2 hours on high or 4 hours on low in the crockpot for optimal flavor development.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is a hearty and flavorful meal perfect for chilly days. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences and dietary needs. Try out different toppings like avocado or Greek yogurt for added creaminess!