Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. This hearty dish combines tender beef with a rich, spicy queso sauce, creating a warm and satisfying meal. Perfect for gatherings, game nights, or simply cozy evenings at home, this chili delivers a burst of flavor in every bite. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings for an added touch of deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simply toss all ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of spices and cheeses creates a bold and savory taste that will impress everyone.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with various toppings like avocado and Greek yogurt to customize each bowl.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a party, this chili is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
• Great Leftovers: The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To make Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Crockpot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Crockpot: This tool allows for slow cooking, enhancing the flavors as ingredients meld together over time.
• Cutting Board: A stable surface makes chopping vegetables safe and easy.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and efficient cutting of ingredients for your chili.

Ingredients

For the Meat and Vegetables

• 2 pounds ground beef (or use ground chicken or turkey)
• 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 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
• 3 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt to taste

For Broth and Cheese

• 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

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

How to Make Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by prepping all your ingredients. Chop the onions and poblano peppers. Measure out your spices to keep everything organized.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat before transferring it to your crockpot.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

Add the chopped onions, poblano peppers, spices, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, diced green chilies, hot sauce, butter, bay leaves, salt, and broth into the crockpot with the browned meat. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Cook

Cover your crockpot and set it on low heat. Let your chili cook for about 120 minutes (or until flavors have melded together).

Step 5: Add Cream Cheese and Cheddar

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in room temperature cream cheese until melted. Then add shredded cheddar cheese to enhance creaminess.

Step 6: Serve

Remove bay leaves before serving. Ladle the chili into bowls and top with mixed beans, cilantro, green onions, avocado slices, and a dollop of Greek yogurt if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is a hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. Serving it with delicious toppings and sides can elevate your chili experience. Here are some great ways to serve this flavorful chili.

Toppings

• Avocado: Sliced or diced, avocado adds a creamy texture that complements the spices.
• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt provides a tangy contrast and creaminess.
• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro enhances the freshness and adds a burst of flavor.
• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle green onions for a crunchy, mild onion flavor.

Bread Pairings

• Beef Broth Bread: This savory bread pairs well with the chili, making it easy to soak up every drop.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread balances the heat of the chili and is perfect for dipping.

Salads

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens can refresh your palate between bites of chili.
• Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and a sweet contrast to the spicy chili.

How to Perfect Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

To ensure your Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili comes out perfectly every time, consider these simple tips:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality meat enhance the overall flavor of your chili.
• Adjust spice levels: Modify the cayenne pepper and hot sauce according to your heat preference.
• Cook low and slow: Letting it simmer for longer in the crockpot develops deeper flavors.
• Stir occasionally: Give it a gentle stir during cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Pairing your chili with complementary side dishes can make for a satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Cheesy Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with melted cheese and garlic butter adds richness.
2. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices complements the robust flavors of the chili.
3. Baked Potatoes: Serve baked potatoes as a base for topping with chili for a filling meal.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with grains or beans make for a colorful and nutritious side.
5. Fried Plantains: Sweet plantains provide a delightful contrast to the spiciness of the chili.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Charred corn adds sweetness and texture, enhancing your overall meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili from good to great.

• Skipping the browning step: Browning the meat adds depth of flavor. Always sear your ground beef or chicken before adding it to the crockpot.
• Overfilling the crockpot: If you fill it past the recommended capacity, it may not cook evenly. Aim for a maximum of two-thirds full for best results.
• Not adjusting spice levels: Everyone has different spice tolerances. Start with less cayenne pepper and adjust as needed based on your preference.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using stale spices can dull flavors. Always check that your spices are fresh before adding them to your chili.
• Forgetting to taste as you go: Tasting while cooking lets you adjust seasoning. Don’t wait until the end to make flavor adjustments.
• Using low-quality cheese: The type of cheese affects texture and taste. Opt for high-quality cheddar for a creamy, rich queso finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the chili to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Will last up to 3 months when stored properly.

Reheating Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low in a saucepan, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a lean alternative that works well in this recipe. Just adjust the seasoning as needed.

How spicy is this Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce. Start with less and add more according to your taste preference.

What toppings go well with this chili?

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

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.

How do I thicken my chili?

If you prefer a thicker chili, let it cook longer with the lid off or stir in some cornmeal or masa harina during the last hour of cooking.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is not only comforting but also highly customizable. You can tweak ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply want a cozy meal on chilly days, this recipe fits perfectly into any occasion. Give it a try!