Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. It combines hearty ingredients with a kick of heat, making it perfect for family dinners, game days, or cozy nights in. This chili is not just about warmth; it’s also rich in flavor thanks to the blend of spices and creamy cheese. Prepare it in your slow cooker for a hands-off approach that lets you enjoy all the deliciousness without fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply toss everything into your crockpot and let it simmer, freeing you up for other activities.
• Flavor Packed: A mix of spices and cheeses creates a bold taste that will delight your taste buds.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with toppings like avocado and Greek yogurt or alongside beef broth bread for a complete meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, this chili feeds a group and can be customized to fit various palates.
• Comfort in a Bowl: Ideal for cold winter nights, this dish warms you from the inside out.

Tools and Preparation

To make Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili effortlessly, you’ll need a few essential tools. These help streamline cooking while ensuring great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The heart of this recipe, allowing you to cook low and slow for deep flavors without constant attention.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements lead to balanced flavors, especially important with spices.

Ingredients

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

For the Base

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

For the Seasoning

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

For the Liquid Components

• 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

For the Broth

• 2-3 cups chicken or beef broth

For Creaminess

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

For Texture and Garnish

• 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 all vegetables such as onions and poblano peppers. Measure out your spices to have them ready.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker, combine browned meat with chopped onions, poblano peppers, spices, tomatoes (crushed tomatoes and tomato paste), diced green chilies, hot sauce, butter, bay leaves, salt, and broth. Stir well to mix everything together.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low. Let it cook for about 120 minutes. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Add Creaminess

After cooking time is up, stir in cream cheese until melted. Mix well before adding shredded cheddar cheese. Allow it to melt into the chili.

Step 6: Final Touches

Stir in mixed chili beans just before serving. Remove bay leaves. Top each bowl with fresh cilantro, green onions, avocado slices, or a dollop of Greek yogurt as desired.

Enjoy your hearty bowl of Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili!

How to Serve Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Serving Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili can be as creative as you like. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or having a cozy family dinner, there are numerous ways to enjoy this hearty dish.

Toppings to Enhance Flavor

• Avocado – Fresh avocado adds creaminess and balances the spice.
• Greek Yogurt – A healthier alternative to sour cream for a tangy finish.
• Fresh Cilantro – Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color.
• Chopped Green Onions – Adds a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch.

Accompaniments for a Complete Meal

• Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with chili’s spiciness.
• Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips are great for scooping up chili.
• Beef Broth Bread – This savory bread complements the chili beautifully.

Serving Suggestions for Gatherings

• Chili Bar – Set up a chili bar with various toppings for guests to customize their bowls.
• Pair with Rice – Serve over rice for an extra filling meal option.

How to Perfect Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Perfecting your Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold Seasoning – Don’t hesitate to adjust spices to match your heat preference; add more cayenne or chili powder if desired.
• Quality Ingredients – Use fresh vegetables and high-quality beef for the best flavor outcome.
• Cook Low and Slow – Allow ample cooking time on low heat for flavors to meld together perfectly.
• Cheese Variety – Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for unique twists.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili pairs well with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Consider these options:

1. Cornbread – A classic pairing that adds sweetness and texture.
2. Garlic Bread – Buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the chili.
3. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf absorbs the chili’s sauce wonderfully.
4. Mexican Street Corn Salad – This salad provides a refreshing contrast with its creamy dressing and tangy lime.
5. Loaded Nachos – Layered tortilla chips topped with cheese, jalapeños, and olives make for an exciting side.
6. Coleslaw – The crispness of coleslaw balances the warmth of the chili nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-stellar results. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Bold seasoning choices: Not adjusting spices can result in bland chili. Always taste as you go and add more spices if needed.
• Bold using cold ingredients: Adding cold cream cheese or broth can slow down cooking. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.
• Bold neglecting the broth: Skipping broth can lead to a thick and dry chili. Ensure you add enough liquid for a rich, flavorful consistency.
• Bold rushing the cook time: Cooking on high might seem tempting, but low and slow builds flavor. Stick to the recommended cooking time for optimal taste.
• Bold forgetting toppings: Toppings like cilantro, green onions, and avocado elevate your chili. Don’t skip them!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chili in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe dish. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a pot and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili, read on for some helpful answers!

What makes this chili spicy?

The chili powder, cayenne pepper, and hot sauce contribute to its spicy flavor. Adjust these ingredients based on your spice tolerance.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that works well in this recipe while keeping it lean.

How do I thicken my Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes or add cornstarch mixed with water.

What toppings pair well with this chili?

Toppings like fresh cilantro, avocado slices, shredded cheddar cheese, and Greek yogurt enhance the flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is perfect for cozy winter nights. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to customize it with your favorite beans or additional spices to suit your taste!