Can I make Chipotle Cheddar Beef Chili without cream cheese for a dairy-free option?

Yes, you can replace cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative like vegan cream cheese or blended silken tofu. These substitutes provide a similar creamy texture without dairy. Be sure to add them toward the end of cooking to maintain the chili’s smooth consistency.

How long should I cook Chipotle Cheddar Beef Chili in a slow cooker?

For slow cooker preparation, cook the chili on low for about 4 hours. To prevent drying out, especially in high altitudes, add extra beef broth or water. Stir occasionally and add cream cheese or cheese shreds near the end of cooking for the best flavor.

Is it safe to freeze Chipotle Cheddar Beef Chili, and how should I do it?

Yes, freezing is a great way to store this chili. Freeze the chili before adding any cheese toppings or cream cheese to avoid texture changes upon thawing. Cool it completely, transfer to airtight containers, and use within 3 months for optimal taste.

Can I make Chipotle Cheddar Beef Chili without beans, and do I need to change the recipe?

You can skip the beans without adjusting the cooking time or other ingredients. The chili will be thicker and have a stronger beef flavor. If you prefer a chunkier texture, consider adding extra diced vegetables like bell peppers or corn.

How can I reduce the spiciness in Chipotle Cheddar Beef Chili if it’s too hot?

To tone down the heat, add a bit of sour cream, additional cheese, or a small amount of sugar or honey to balance the spice. Serving the chili with mild side dishes like rice or bread can also help mellow the heat for sensitive palates.

Chipotle Cheddar Beef Chili Recipe For Rich Flavor

Name: Chipotle Cheddar Beef Chili
Prep time: 1 h 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (or substitute with 1 pound ground chicken, turkey, or bison); 2 medium yellow onions, diced; 2 poblano peppers, diced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 can (28 ounces) crushed fire-roasted tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies; 2 tablespoons Gochujang chili paste; 2 tablespoons salted butter; 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce; 4 cups broth (bone broth preferred); 4 ounces cream cheese; 1 can (15 ounces) mixed chili beans or black beans; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Fresh cilantro (to taste); Sliced green onions (to taste); 1 avocado, sliced; Greek yogurt or sour cream (about 1 tablespoon per serving)

Description

🌶️ This Chipotle Cheddar Beef Chili delivers bold, smoky flavors combined with creamy cheddar for ultimate comforting warmth.
🥄 Slow-simmered with savory spices and tender beef, it’s a hearty meal perfect for cozy gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound ground beef (or substitute with 1 pound ground chicken, turkey, or bison)

2 medium yellow onions, diced

2 poblano peppers, diced

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon cumin

1 can (28 ounces) crushed fire-roasted tomatoes

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies

2 tablespoons Gochujang chili paste

2 tablespoons salted butter

2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce

4 cups broth (bone broth preferred)

4 ounces cream cheese

1 can (15 ounces) mixed chili beans or black beans

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Fresh cilantro (to taste)

Sliced green onions (to taste)

1 avocado, sliced

Greek yogurt or sour cream (about 1 tablespoon per serving)

Instructions

1-First Step: Brown 1 pound of ground beef along with 2 medium diced yellow onions in a large pot over medium heat. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the meat is fully cooked and the onions soften, releasing their sweet aroma. This step builds the base flavors for your chipotle cheddar beef chili, and if you’re using a substitute like ground turkey, it might cook a bit faster for a lighter beef chili option.

2-Second Step: Add 2 diced poblano peppers, 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 can (28 ounces) crushed fire-roasted tomatoes, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies, and 2 tablespoons Gochujang chili paste to the pot. Stir everything together to mix well, letting the spices bloom for about 2-3 minutes over medium heat. For a milder cheddar chili, reduce the chipotle amounts to adjust the heat level while keeping the recipe easy.

3-Third Step: Stir in 2 tablespoons salted butter and 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce, then pour in 4 cups broth. Mix thoroughly, partially cover the pot, and let it simmer on low heat for 1-2 hours. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld, making your chipotle cheddar beef chili even more comforting add a bit more broth if you prefer a thinner consistency for dietary needs.

4-Fourth Step: Near the end of cooking, about 10 minutes before serving, stir in 4 ounces cream cheese, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 can (15 ounces) mixed chili beans or black beans. Continue cooking until the cheese melts and everything combines smoothly, which takes around 5 minutes. This step adds creaminess, and for low-calorie versions, you can reduce the cheese while maintaining the beef chili’s heartiness.

5-Final Step: Serve the chipotle cheddar beef chili hot, topped with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, sliced avocado, and about 1 tablespoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream per serving. This finishes the dish with a burst of freshness and cools any spice, making it ideal for family meals. For variations, pair it with sides like rice for a fuller plate, enhancing the flavorful comfort of this easy recipe.

Notes

🔥 Use Gochujang chili paste to add balanced spice without overwhelming heat.
⏳ Letting the chili simmer longer or sit overnight enhances the flavors.
🥄 Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative for vegan or dairy-free versions.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Main Course
Method: Simmering, Sautéing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 610

Keywords: Chipotle Beef Chili, Cheddar Chili, Easy Chili Recipe, Flavorful Comfort