Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings with friends and family. This hearty chili combines rich flavors with a creamy queso twist that elevates your traditional chili experience. It’s an ideal dish for game days, potlucks, or cozy nights in. Plus, it’s simple to prepare in your slow cooker, allowing you to enjoy warm, spicy goodness without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply toss all ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
• Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of spices and cheeses creates a rich depth of flavor that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve with toppings like avocado and Greek yogurt or alongside beef broth bread for a complete meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: This chili appeals to both kids and adults, making it a hit at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili a breeze. Gather these essential items before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Chopping Knife
• Cutting Board
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Mixing Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: Allows for low-and-slow cooking, enhancing flavors while you attend to other tasks.
• Chopping Knife: Provides precision when chopping vegetables, ensuring even cooking.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Guarantees accurate measurements of spices and liquids for consistent results.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili, gather the following ingredients:

For the Base

• 2 pounds ground beef (or use ground chicken or ground turkey)
• 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 Sauce

• 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 Creaminess

• 2-3 cups chicken or beef broth
• 6 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

For Toppings

• 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 vegetables. Dice the onions and poblano peppers finely. Measure out all spices beforehand to streamline your cooking process.

Step 2: Brown Your Meat (Optional)

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat if necessary. This step enhances the flavor but can be skipped if you prefer a quicker method.

Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker

Transfer the browned meat into your slow cooker. Add in all chopped vegetables along with seasoning ingredients: chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, green chilies, hot sauce, butter, bay leaves, salt, and broth.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your slow cooker with its lid. Cook on low heat for about 120 minutes or until everything is well combined and heated through.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Creaminess

After cooking time is up, stir in cream cheese until melted and combined. Then add shredded cheddar cheese gradually until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Final Touches

Remove bay leaves before serving. Stir in mixed chili beans gently. Top bowls with fresh cilantro, green onions, avocado slices, and a dollop of Greek yogurt if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili!

How to Serve Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is a hearty dish perfect for chilly days. Serving it with the right accompaniments can elevate the meal and create a cozy dining experience.

Toppings

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
• Chopped Green Onions: Add a sprinkle of green onions for extra crunch and flavor.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream adds creaminess and balances the heat.

Sides

• Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread on the side for a sweet contrast to the spicy chili.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are great for dipping into the chili or enjoying on their own.
• Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado adds a creamy texture and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Bread Options

• Beef Broth Bread: This savory bread pairs well with the chili, soaking up all those delicious juices.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread complements the dish with its aromatic flavors.

How to Perfect Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

To ensure your Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili turns out perfectly, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Use fresh, high-quality ground beef or chicken for better flavor and texture.
• Layer Ingredients Wisely: Start with meat at the bottom of the crockpot, then add vegetables and spices on top to enhance cooking.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify cayenne pepper based on your heat preference; taste as you go!
• Stir Occasionally: If possible, give your chili an occasional stir during cooking to evenly distribute flavors.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the chili to sit for 30 minutes after cooking improves the flavors as they meld together.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions just before serving for maximum flavor impact.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Cornbread: Sweet and moist, cornbread is perfect for soaking up chili juices.
2. Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips make an excellent dipper for your spicy chili.
3. Avocado Salad: A refreshing avocado salad brightens up your plate with its cool flavors.
4. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread complements the spice while adding delicious aroma.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast to the rich chili texture.
6. Rice Pilaf: Serve fluffy rice pilaf alongside chili for an additional filling component.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili.

• Not Browning the Meat: Skipping the browning process can lead to a less developed flavor in your chili. Always brown the beef before adding it to the crockpot for richer taste.
• Ignoring Spice Levels: Underestimating the heat can make your dish bland. Adjust spices like cayenne pepper and hot sauce according to your taste preference.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using subpar tomatoes or cheese will affect overall flavor. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes and fresh cheese for the best results.
• Overcrowding the Crockpot: Overfilling can prevent proper cooking. Follow the recipe’s ingredient amounts to ensure even cooking and flavor development.
• Skipping Toppings: Not using toppings can make the dish less appealing. Garnish with cilantro, green onions, avocado, or Greek yogurt for a flavorful finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chili in an airtight container.
• It stays fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen 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, cover, and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey works great as a leaner alternative while still providing good flavor.

How spicy is this Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?

The spice level can be adjusted based on personal preference by varying the amounts of cayenne pepper and hot sauce.

What toppings go well with this chili?

Popular toppings include fresh cilantro, green onions, diced avocado, and a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is a warm and hearty dish perfect for cold days. It’s versatile enough to cater to various tastes by allowing customization with different proteins and toppings. Give it a try, and enjoy a delicious bowl of comfort!