Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. This hearty dish combines tender beef, zesty spices, and rich queso to create a flavorful bowl of warmth. Perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or cozy nights in, this chili delivers both satisfaction and convenience. Just toss the ingredients into your crockpot, and let it do the work while you enjoy your time with loved ones.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simply combine all ingredients in your crockpot and let it cook. No fuss, no extra pots to clean!
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of spices and creamy cheese creates a rich taste that will impress everyone at the table.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with toppings like avocado or Greek yogurt, or pair it with beer bread for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a party, this chili fits right in at any event.
• Slow-Cooked Goodness: Letting it simmer for hours enhances the flavors, making each bite more delicious than the last.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili, you’ll need some essential tools that simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for slow cooking. It allows all flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
• Chopping board: A stable surface makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures efficient chopping of onions and peppers, saving you time in preparation.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients:
– 2 pounds ground beef (or use ground chicken)
– 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 ounces) crushed fire roasted tomatoes
– 1 can (8 ounces) tomato paste
– 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
– 1/3 cup hot sauce
– 3 tablespoons salted butter
– 2 bay leaves
– salt to taste
– 2–3 cups chicken or beef broth
– 6 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 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

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onions and poblano peppers finely so they blend well into the chili.

Step 2: Brown the Meat (Optional)

If you prefer richer flavor:
1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through.
2. Drain excess fat before adding it to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker:
Add browned meat (or raw if skipping browning).
Add chopped onions, poblano peppers, spices (chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, cayenne pepper), fire roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, diced green chilies, hot sauce, and butter.
Pour in enough broth to cover ingredients as needed.

Step 4: Cook

Add bay leaves and salt to taste. Cover and cook on low for about two hours.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Once cooked:
1. Stir in cream cheese until melted.
2. Add shredded cheddar cheese and mix well until combined.

Step 6: Serve

Remove bay leaves before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, green onions, sliced avocado, 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

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is a hearty dish that warms you up on cold days. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your chili experience.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Avocado – Add sliced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats.
• Greek Yogurt – Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy flavor and added protein.
• Chopped Green Onions – Sprinkle fresh green onions on top for a mild onion crunch.

Pair with Bread

• Beer Bread – This soft, flavorful bread complements the chili perfectly.
• Cornbread – Serve warm cornbread on the side to soak up the spicy goodness.

Create a Chili Bar

• Toppings Station – Set up a toppings station with shredded cheese, jalapeños, and cilantro for guests to customize their bowls.
• Variety of Hot Sauces – Offer different hot sauces for those who want an extra kick.

How to Perfect Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Making the perfect Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili requires some simple adjustments. Here are tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Quality Meat – Choose high-quality ground beef or chicken for better flavor and texture.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Modify the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference.
• Cook Low and Slow – Allow your chili to cook longer for deeper flavors; aim for 6-8 hours if possible.
• Experiment with Beans – Try different beans like black beans or pinto beans for variety in texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili pairs well with various sides that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options.

1. Cornbread – A sweet and savory bread that balances the spiciness of the chili.
2. Beer Bread – Soft and fluffy, this bread absorbs the chili’s sauce perfectly.
3. Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips make an excellent garnish and snack alongside the chili.
4. Rice – Serve over white or brown rice for a filling meal that absorbs all that delicious flavor.
5. Garden Salad – A fresh salad provides a crisp contrast to the warm, hearty chili.
6. Coleslaw – The crunchiness of coleslaw adds a refreshing element to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Overcooking the meat: Ground beef can become dry if cooked too long. Use a timer and check for doneness.
• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to add enough spices can dull the flavor. Measure spices carefully and taste as you go.
• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Cold ingredients can affect cooking time. Allow cream cheese to reach room temperature before mixing it in.
• Not using enough liquid: A thick chili can be unappetizing. Ensure you add enough broth to keep it the right consistency.
• Forgetting about toppings: Toppings enhance flavor and texture. Prepare items like cilantro, green onions, or avocado to serve on top.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

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

Reheating Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover chili with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?

The spice level is adjustable! You can control the heat by varying the cayenne pepper and hot sauce amounts according to your preference.

Can I make this chili vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils or black beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.

What are the best toppings for this chili?

Delicious toppings include avocado, Greek yogurt, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, and green onions for added flavor.

How do I adjust the consistency of my chili?

If your chili is too thick, gradually add more broth until you reach your desired thickness. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is perfect for chilly days when comfort food is a must. This recipe’s versatility allows you to customize it with various proteins and toppings, making it your own. Give it a try; you’ll love how satisfying and flavorful it is!