Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings. This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of beef, cheese, and spices, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy tender meat and a creamy queso texture without the hassle. Enjoy this chili as a meal on its own or pair it with your favorite toppings for an extra special treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything into the crockpot and let it do the cooking.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of spices creates a warm, delicious blend that will excite your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Customize your toppings to suit everyone’s preferences, making it perfect for gatherings.
• Comforting Winter Meal: Ideal for cold days, this chili warms you up from the inside out.
• Leftover Friendly: Makes great leftovers that taste even better after a day in the fridge.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Ensures low and slow cooking for tender meat and rich flavors without constant monitoring.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe, clean surface for chopping your ingredients efficiently.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of chopping vegetables and meats.
• Mixing spoon: Helps combine all ingredients thoroughly for even flavor distribution.

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 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

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 your onions and poblano peppers. Measure out all spices to have them ready.

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 the crockpot.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

Add all chopped vegetables (onions and poblano peppers), spices (chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne), crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, diced green chilies, hot sauce, butter, bay leaves, salt, and broth into the crockpot with the browned meat.

Step 4: Cook

Cover and cook on low for about 120 minutes or until the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Add Creaminess

Stir in cream cheese until melted and well combined. Then fold in shredded cheddar cheese until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle into bowls and top with mixed chili beans, 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

Serving Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is a delightful experience, especially on chilly days. This hearty dish can be customized with various toppings and sides, making each bowl unique and delicious.

Toppings

• Avocado: Creamy avocado slices add a smooth texture and a refreshing taste.
• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt provides a tangy contrast to the spicy chili.
• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor and color.
• Chopped Green Onions: These add a mild onion flavor and a crunchy texture.

Bread Options

• Beef Broth Bread: Serve with warm beef broth bread for dipping into the chili.
• Cornbread: Sweet and crumbly cornbread pairs wonderfully with the spicy flavors.

Salad Pairings

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad can balance the richness of the chili.
• Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw offers a great texture and cooling effect against the heat.

How to Perfect Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

To make your Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili even better, follow these helpful tips for enhanced flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables elevate the taste compared to canned or frozen options.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify cayenne pepper and hot sauce according to your heat preference.
• Let It Simmer Longer: Allowing the chili to cook longer enhances flavors and makes it richer.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for varied flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

Complement your Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili with these fantastic side dishes that enhance your meal experience.

1. Cornbread: A sweet, fluffy bread perfect for soaking up chili.
2. Rice: Steamed white or brown rice adds heartiness and absorbs flavors beautifully.
3. Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips are great for scooping up the chili or enjoying on their own.
4. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes serve as a hearty base for chili toppings.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled veggies add nutrition and vibrant colors to your meal.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies offers freshness alongside the rich chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Bold seasoning: Skipping spices can lead to bland chili. Make sure to measure and include all recommended spices for full flavor.
• Bold ingredient substitutions: Using the wrong type of meat or cheese can change the dish’s character. Stick to ground beef or alternatives for best results.
• Bold cooking time mishaps: Not allowing enough cooking time can result in undercooked ingredients. Aim for the full two hours to ensure everything is tender.
• Bold ignoring the broth: Not adding enough broth can make the chili too thick. Adjust the amount based on your preferred consistency.
• Bold topping oversight: Forgetting toppings like avocado or cilantro may leave your chili lacking. Don’t skip these; they enhance flavor and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the chili to cool before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the chili will expand when frozen.

Reheating Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What can I substitute for beef in Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?

You can use ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you prefer a lighter option.

Can I make Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili ahead of time?

Yes! This chili actually tastes better after sitting, so feel free to prepare it a day in advance and reheat before serving.

What are some good toppings for Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?

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

How spicy is Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili?

The spice level can be adjusted by changing the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce used. Start with less if you’re unsure!

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is perfect for chilly evenings when you want a hearty meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different proteins and toppings according to your taste. Give it a try—you’ll love how satisfying this dish is!