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Creamy Crockpot Jalapeño Popper Chili

creamy crockpot jalapeño popper chili - featured image

A creamy, spicy, and comforting chili recipe that combines the flavors of jalapeño poppers with hearty chili, perfect for game day or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 23 jalapeños, seeded and diced
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (110 g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 14 oz (400 g) can crushed tomatoes
  • 8 oz (225 g) tomato sauce
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  2. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Seed and dice 2-3 jalapeños, adjusting seeds for desired heat level.
  4. Transfer browned beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add diced jalapeños, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Cut softened cream cheese into chunks and nestle into the chili without stirring to allow gradual melting.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
  7. About 15 minutes before serving, stir in shredded cheddar cheese and any remaining cream cheese reserved for swirling to create a creamy cheese swirl.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or chili powder if desired.
  9. Serve warm, garnished with sour cream, extra shredded cheese, or chopped green onions as desired.

Notes

Use softened cream cheese for best melting. Adjust jalapeño seeds to control heat. If chili is too thick after cooking, stir in a splash of broth or water. Browning beef and sautéing aromatics before slow cooking enhances flavor. Can be made on stovetop by simmering gently for 45-60 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: jalapeño popper chili, crockpot chili, creamy chili, game day recipe, slow cooker chili, spicy chili, comfort food