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This Spicy Queso Beef Chili is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. Slow-cooked to perfection, it combines the bold flavors of poblano peppers, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a spicy blend of chili spices. The creamy addition of cheddar and cream cheese takes it to another level, creating a queso-like richness that’s irresistible.
Whether served with a side of crispy tortilla chips or warm beer bread, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Pile on the toppings—Greek yogurt, fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, and green onions—for a personalized touch that adds freshness and texture. Ideal for game days, family dinners, or anytime you need a big bowl of cozy!
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Full Recipe:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 poblano peppers, diced
- 2 tsp 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) fire-roasted tomatoes, crushed
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 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 and rinsed
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 avocado, sliced (for garnish)
- Greek yogurt or sour cream (for garnish)
Directions:
- Prepare the Meat:
In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces, about 5 minutes. Transfer the beef to the bowl of your crockpot. - Combine Ingredients:
Add the onion, poblano peppers, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper to the crockpot. Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, diced green chilies, hot sauce, butter, and broth. Add bay leaves and season with salt. Stir to combine. - Cook:
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours. For stovetop cooking, simmer the mixture on low heat for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. - Finish:
Towards the end of cooking, stir in the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and chili beans. Allow the cheese to melt completely, about 5 minutes. - Serve:
Ladle the chili into bowls and top with Greek yogurt or sour cream, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and chopped green onions. Pair with tortilla chips or beer bread for the ultimate comfort meal!
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 2 hours (or 6-8 hours in crockpot) | Total Time: ~2 hours 20 minutes
Kcal: 472 kcal per serving | Servings: 6
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Spicy Queso Beef Chili: A Comfort Food Classic with a Cheesy Twist
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, nothing beats the comfort of a warm, hearty bowl of chili. The Spicy Queso Beef Chili takes the classic chili recipe and elevates it with a creamy, cheesy twist that will delight your taste buds. This recipe blends the bold flavors of traditional chili with the rich, savory indulgence of queso, making it the ultimate comfort food for cozy nights, game day gatherings, or any occasion where a satisfying, flavor-packed meal is a must.
What Makes Spicy Queso Beef Chili Unique?
The fusion of spicy chili and cheesy queso sets this dish apart. Traditional chili often focuses on a hearty, robust tomato and meat base flavored with a medley of spices. In contrast, this recipe builds on that foundation by introducing cream cheese and sharp cheddar cheese, creating a silky, queso-like texture. This addition transforms the dish from a simple chili into a luscious, dip-like delight that is both familiar and innovative.
Adding poblano peppers and a dash of hot sauce brings a smoky and spicy depth to the chili, while the cream cheese balances the heat with a rich, creamy consistency. The chili beans and diced tomatoes add layers of texture, making each bite a delightful medley of flavors and sensations.
The Inspiration Behind the Recipe
Chili has always been a staple in family-style dinners, offering a simple yet versatile meal that can be customized to suit various tastes. The Spicy Queso Beef Chili draws inspiration from both the Tex-Mex tradition of combining heat and cheese and the heartwarming appeal of a slow-cooked chili. This recipe was designed for those who crave bold flavors and enjoy exploring creative takes on classic comfort foods.
The queso element nods to the popularity of cheese dips, particularly during casual gatherings and game days. By merging this beloved appetizer with chili, the recipe becomes a versatile dish that can be served as a hearty meal or a shareable party centerpiece.
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the best aspects of this dish is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting friends for a game night, preparing a family dinner, or looking for a make-ahead meal that reheats beautifully, this chili fits the bill. It pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, fresh beer bread, or a simple green salad, making it adaptable to various serving styles and preferences.
This chili also shines in its ability to accommodate different dietary needs and ingredient preferences. While the recipe calls for ground beef, it can easily be made with ground chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. Adjusting the level of heat is as simple as scaling back the cayenne pepper or opting for milder chilies, ensuring the dish can cater to both spice enthusiasts and those with milder palates.
Tips for Serving and Presentation
When it comes to serving, toppings are the key to taking this chili to the next level. The richness of the queso pairs beautifully with the freshness of toppings like sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, and green onions. A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream adds a tangy contrast to the spiciness, while crispy tortilla chips or cornbread provide a satisfying crunch.
For a more indulgent presentation, serve the chili in individual bread bowls or alongside soft pretzel sticks for dipping. This not only adds to the dish’s visual appeal but also provides additional textures and flavors for guests to enjoy.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the joys of chili is how well it stores and reheats, and this Spicy Queso Beef Chili is no exception. The flavors deepen with time, making leftovers even more delicious. To store, simply transfer the chili to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze it in portion-sized containers for up to three months.
When reheating, do so gently over low heat to preserve the creamy texture of the cheese. If the chili thickens too much in the fridge or freezer, a splash of broth or milk will bring it back to the perfect consistency.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold and Complex Flavors: The combination of chili spices, smoky poblano peppers, and creamy cheese creates a unique balance of heat, richness, and zest.
- Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for casual get-togethers or family meals, this chili is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.
- Ease of Preparation: With a slow cooker doing most of the work, this recipe requires minimal hands-on time, making it ideal for busy schedules.
- Customizable Options: Whether you want to adjust the spice level, swap proteins, or experiment with toppings, this recipe is easy to tailor to your liking.
- Leftover Magic: The chili tastes even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead meal or meal-prep option for the week.
Pairing Suggestions
While the Spicy Queso Beef Chili is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the dining experience. Here are some pairing suggestions:
- Beer Bread: The slightly sweet and malty flavor of beer bread pairs wonderfully with the spicy, cheesy notes of the chili.
- Cornbread Muffins: These classic chili companions add a touch of sweetness that balances the heat of the dish.
- Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up every cheesy, flavorful bite.
- Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted sweet potatoes or Brussels sprouts adds a healthy, caramelized contrast to the richness of the chili.
- Green Salad: A crisp, citrusy salad provides a refreshing counterpoint to the hearty chili.
The Perfect Dish for Fall and Winter
As the seasons change and the air grows crisp, there’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of chili. The Spicy Queso Beef Chili embodies everything we love about fall and winter cooking: hearty, warming, and packed with flavors that evoke a sense of home.
This dish also brings people together. Whether it’s family gathered around the dinner table or friends cheering for their favorite team, this chili fosters a sense of connection and joy. It’s more than just a meal—it’s an experience that brings warmth to both the body and soul.
Conclusion: A Recipe Worth Savoring
The Spicy Queso Beef Chili is more than just a twist on a classic; it’s a celebration of bold flavors, comforting textures, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. Its creamy, cheesy richness and smoky, spicy depth make it a standout dish for any occasion.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional chili or looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to impress. With its ease of preparation, versatility, and unforgettable taste, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the ultimate comfort food experience.
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Spicy Queso Beef Chili
- Total Time: ~2 hours 20 minutes
Description
This Spicy Queso Beef Chili is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. Slow-cooked to perfection, it combines the bold flavors of poblano peppers, fire-roasted tomatoes, and a spicy blend of chili spices. The creamy addition of cheddar and cream cheese takes it to another level, creating a queso-like richness that’s irresistible.
Whether served with a side of crispy tortilla chips or warm beer bread, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Pile on the toppings—Greek yogurt, fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, and green onions—for a personalized touch that adds freshness and texture. Ideal for game days, family dinners, or anytime you need a big bowl of cozy!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 poblano peppers, diced
- 2 tsp 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) fire-roasted tomatoes, crushed
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
- 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 and rinsed
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 avocado, sliced (for garnish)
- Greek yogurt or sour cream (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Meat:
In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces, about 5 minutes. Transfer the beef to the bowl of your crockpot. - Combine Ingredients:
Add the onion, poblano peppers, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper to the crockpot. Stir in the fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, diced green chilies, hot sauce, butter, and broth. Add bay leaves and season with salt. Stir to combine. - Cook:
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours. For stovetop cooking, simmer the mixture on low heat for 2 hours, stirring occasionally. - Finish:
Towards the end of cooking, stir in the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and chili beans. Allow the cheese to melt completely, about 5 minutes. - Serve:
Ladle the chili into bowls and top with Greek yogurt or sour cream, avocado slices, fresh cilantro, and chopped green onions. Pair with tortilla chips or beer bread for the ultimate comfort meal!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours (or 6-8 hours in crockpot)