Description

Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is the ultimate comfort dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. This slow cooker recipe combines savory ground beef (or turkey) with a medley of spices, fire-roasted tomatoes, and creamy queso, resulting in a rich flavor profile that’s perfect for chilly days. Ideal for game day gatherings or cozy nights at home, this hearty chili serves six and invites everyone to customize their bowls with fresh toppings like avocado, Greek yogurt, and cilantro. With effortless preparation and a delightful blend of flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds ground beef (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
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
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

Instructions

Chop onions and poblano peppers; measure out spices.
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through. Drain excess fat and transfer to the slow cooker.
Add all remaining base ingredients to the crockpot: chopped onions, poblano peppers, spices, crushed tomatoes, hot sauce, butter, bay leaves, salt, and broth. Stir well.
Cover and cook on low for about 120 minutes.
Once cooked, mix in cream cheese until melted, then gradually add cheddar cheese until fully incorporated.
Serve hot with toppings of your choice.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 120 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
Calories: 472
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 890mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fiber: 7g
Protein: 29g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: For a vegetarian option, substitute meat with beans or lentils. Adjust the spice levels by varying the amount of cayenne pepper.