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Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili

A bowl of crockpot spicy queso beef chili topped with shredded cheese, sliced jalapeños, avocado, and fresh cilantro.

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Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is a hearty, cheesy, slow-cooked chili packed with ground beef, spices, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a creamy queso finish. Perfect for winter nights, game day, or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 2 poblano peppers, chopped
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed fire-roasted tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles
  • 2 tbsp hot sauce
  • 2 tbsp salted butter
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 cups chicken or beef broth
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 can (15 oz) mixed chili beans, drained
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • 1 avocado, diced (optional)
  • Greek yogurt or sour cream (for topping)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Break it up into crumbles and transfer to the crockpot.
  2. Add onions, poblano peppers, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, cayenne, tomatoes, tomato paste, green chiles, hot sauce, butter, bay leaves, and broth to the crockpot. Stir to combine.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours.
  4. About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and beans. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated.
  5. Ladle the chili into bowls and top with Greek yogurt, avocado, cilantro, and green onions as desired.

Notes

  • Make ahead and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
  • Use ground chicken or pork as an alternative to beef.
  • Adjust heat levels by modifying cayenne or hot sauce amounts.
  • Serve with tortilla chips, beer bread, or over pasta or rice.
  • Cheese melts better when added at room temperature.

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