Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili 

This Crockpot Spicy Queso Beef Chili is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the richness of chili with the creamy goodness of queso. Slow-cooked to perfection, it's ideal for cozy dinners, game days, or meal prepping for the week ahead. The blend of spices and cheeses creates a comforting meal that's both satisfying and easy to prepare.

 Ingredients 

• 2 pounds ground beef (or ground chicken/pork)

• 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

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed fire-roasted tomatoes

• 1 can (8 oz) tomato paste

• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies

• ⅓ 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

• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• ¼ cup chopped green onions

• Avocado and Greek yogurt, for serving

 Directions

1. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, transfer the meat to the crockpot.

2. Add Vegetables and Spices: To the crockpot, add the chopped onions, poblano peppers, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine.

3. Add Tomatoes and Liquids: Mix in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, diced green chilies, hot sauce, butter, bay leaves, and salt. Pour in the chicken or beef broth and stir well.

4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours.

5. Finish the Chili: About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add the drained chili beans and cook until heated through.

6. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, avocado slices, and a dollop of Greek yogurt. Serve with tortilla chips or cornbread on the side.

 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 472 kcal

• Protein: 30 g

• Carbohydrates: 15 g

• Fat: 30 g

• Saturated Fat: 14 g

• Cholesterol: 80 mg

• Sodium: 1,100 mg

• Potassium: 600 mg

• Fiber: 4 g

• Sugar: 6 g