Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

If you’re looking for the perfect dish to warm your soul on a chilly day, then let me introduce you to my beloved Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili. This hearty chili is not only packed with flavor, but it’s also super easy to prepare. Just toss everything into your slow cooker, and let it do all the work while you relax or take care of other tasks.

What I love most about this recipe is how it brings everyone together. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends and family, this chili is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of spicy queso and tender beef creates a delightful experience that’ll keep you coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply dump everything into the crockpot and let it simmer away—no fussing required!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves chili! Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! Make it ahead of time and reheat for quick dinners throughout the week.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices and creamy cheese creates an irresistible taste that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients you’ll easily find at your local grocery store. With fresh veggies, flavorful spices, and plenty of cheesy goodness, this chili is as nutritious as it is delicious!

For the Chili Base

• 2 pounds ground beef (or use ground chicken or 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

For the Broth

• 2-3 cups chicken or beef broth

For the Creamy Finish

• 6 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can mixed chili beans, drained

For Serving

• 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 Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is its flexibility! You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some zucchini or corn for extra nutrition and texture.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute meat with lentils or black beans for a hearty plant-based version.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add more cayenne pepper or jalapeños to kick up the heat!

How to Make Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by browning your ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. This step adds depth of flavor by creating those lovely caramelized bits that make chili so delicious. Once browned, drain any excess fat before adding it to your crockpot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, sauté your onions and poblano peppers until they’re soft. This helps to bring out their natural sweetness. It’s worth taking this extra step; trust me!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to combine all those beautiful ingredients in your crockpot! Add in the browned meat along with the sautéed vegetables, spices, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, green chilies, hot sauce, butter, bay leaves, and salt. Pour in enough broth until everything is well covered.

Step 4: Let It Cook

Set your crockpot on low for about 2 hours. The magic happens during this time as all those flavors meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally if possible!

Step 5: Add Creamy Goodness

About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the cream cheese until melted and creamy. Then fold in shredded cheddar cheese until everything is ooey-gooey delicious.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Spoon generous portions into bowls and top with fresh cilantro, green onions, avocado slices, and a dollop of Greek yogurt if desired. Enjoy every last bite of your heartwarming Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili!

Pro Tips for Making Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Making the perfect chili is all about the little details, and these tips will help you create a delicious bowl that warms your heart.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and peppers enhance flavor and texture, making your chili more vibrant and delicious.

• Adjust the heat level: If you’re not sure how spicy you like it, start with less cayenne pepper or hot sauce. You can always add more later to find that perfect balance of heat!

• Let it simmer longer: The longer your chili cooks, the more developed the flavors will be. Aim for at least two hours or even longer if you have the time.

• Incorporate different beans: Mixing various beans can add complexity and texture to your chili. Consider using black beans or kidney beans for added variety!

• Top it off creatively: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings! A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro can make a huge difference in taste and presentation.

How to Serve Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Serving up this warming bowl of goodness is just as important as how you prepare it! Here are some ideas on how to present your Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili for maximum enjoyment.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the spices in your chili.

• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado slices provide a rich texture that balances the spiciness, making every bite delightful.

• Chopped green onions: These add a mild onion flavor and an appealing crunch, brightening up the dish visually and taste-wise.

Side Dishes

• Beef broth bread: This hearty bread is perfect for dunking into your chili. Its rich flavor pairs wonderfully with spicy dishes, making each bite satisfying.

• Cornbread: Sweet and crumbly cornbread is an all-time favorite alongside chili. It brings a comforting sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the spicy flavors.

• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips offer a delightful texture contrast while providing an easy way to scoop up your chili. Plus, they’re fun!

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with tomatoes, cucumber, and lime dressing can serve as a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of the chili while adding nutritional value.

Now grab your ingredients and get ready to warm up with this delicious Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili! Enjoy every spoonful with family or friends—it’s sure to become a cozy favorite during those chilly days ahead!

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about this Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is how well it fits into meal prep. You can whip up a big batch, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your chili fresh and tasty!

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 your container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion out your chili into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use the microwave: place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
• If the chili thickens too much, stir in a splash of broth to achieve your desired consistency.

FAQs

Curious about this delicious recipe? Here are some answers to common questions you might have!

Can I make Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili without meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with lentils or black beans for a hearty vegetarian version.

How spicy is this Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?

The heat level can be adjusted by reducing cayenne pepper or using mild hot sauce. Feel free to customize it according to your spice preference!

What toppings go well with Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?

Toppings like avocado, Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro add great flavor and texture!

Can I use other types of cheese in this chili?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Pepper jack adds a nice kick, while Monterey Jack provides creaminess.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili! It’s perfect for cozy nights and great for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful dish and make it your own with fun toppings. Happy cooking!