This Jalapeño Popper Chili is a fun twist on classic chili, bringing in the creamy, spicy flavors of jalapeño poppers. Loaded with ground beef, black beans, and tangy cream cheese, this hearty dish offers a perfect blend of heat and comfort. It’s a fantastic meal for chilly days, gatherings, or anytime you want a flavorful bowl of warmth. I love making this recipe because it’s unique, satisfying, and packed with bold flavors!
Why You’ll Like This Recipe
This Jalapeño Popper Chili combines the warmth of traditional chili with the rich, creamy flavors of a jalapeño popper. The combination of ground beef, turkey bacon, and cream cheese makes it savory and hearty, while jalapeños and spices add just the right amount of heat. It’s easy to make, full of protein, and perfect for anyone who loves a little spice.
Recipe: Jalapeño Popper Chili
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 jalapeños, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 oz cream cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, and jalapeños. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes, Beans, and Spices
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, chili powder, cumin, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Simmer the Chili
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Add the Cream Cheese and Turkey Bacon
Stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated into the chili. Add the crumbled turkey bacon and continue to stir until the mixture is creamy.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the chili into bowls, top with shredded cheddar cheese, and enjoy this deliciously creamy, spicy bowl of Jalapeño Popper Chili!
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving:
Serve this chili hot, topped with extra shredded cheddar, chopped green onions, or even a dollop of sour cream. It’s delicious with cornbread or tortilla chips on the side.
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pot on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Helpful Notes
- Adjust Heat Level: Use more or fewer jalapeños to control the spice. For a milder option, remove the seeds from the jalapeños.
- Thicker Chili: For a thicker chili, simmer longer to reduce the liquid, or add more beans.
- Substitute Proteins: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef if preferred.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the beef first, then add all ingredients (except cream cheese and cheddar) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours, adding the cheeses in the last 30 minutes.
Q2: Can I make this chili vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with more beans or a plant-based ground meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Q3: How do I make the chili extra creamy?
Adding extra cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream can make it even creamier. Be sure to stir well for a smooth consistency.
Q4: Can I add other toppings?
Yes! Try topping with avocado, cilantro, or crushed tortilla chips for added flavor and texture.
Q5: Can I freeze this chili?
Yes, allow the chili to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat on the stove.
Final Thoughts
This Jalapeño Popper Chili is the perfect comfort food for chilly days, combining the spicy, creamy flavors of jalapeño poppers with the heartiness of classic chili. It’s easy to customize, satisfying, and a fun twist on traditional chili. Enjoy each warm, flavorful spoonful with family and friends, and make this recipe a cozy go-to for your holiday season!
Jalapeño Popper Chili
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 slices turkey bacon cooked and crumbled
- 2 jalapeños diced
- 1 onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 oz cream cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, and jalapeños. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes, Beans, and Spices
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, black beans, chili powder, cumin, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Simmer the Chili
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Add the Cream Cheese and Turkey Bacon
- Stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated into the chili. Add the crumbled turkey bacon and continue to stir until the mixture is creamy.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Ladle the chili into bowls, top with shredded cheddar cheese, and enjoy this deliciously creamy, spicy bowl of Jalapeño Popper Chili!
Notes
- Adjust Heat Level: Use more or fewer jalapeños to control the spice. For a milder option, remove the seeds from the jalapeños.
- Thicker Chili: For a thicker chili, simmer longer to reduce the liquid, or add more beans.
- Substitute Proteins: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef if preferred.
