Indulging in a bowl of chili brings a warm and cozy feeling, especially on those chilly days. This Jalapeño Popper Chili is a delightful twist on the classic recipe, incorporating the creamy and spicy flavors reminiscent of jalapeño poppers. This dish is packed with ground beef, black beans, and tangy cream cheese, offering the perfect balance of heat and comfort. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply seeking a satisfying meal, this chili is an amazing choice that’s both unique and flavorful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Jalapeño Popper Chili brings together the comforting essence of traditional chili with the rich and creamy flavors of jalapeño poppers. The mix of ground beef, savory turkey bacon, and luscious cream cheese gently warms your soul. Plus, the addition of jalapeños and spices adds a delightful kick that spices up your meal! Simple to prepare and brimming with protein, this chili is a fantastic option for spice enthusiasts.

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
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 4 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned. Drain any excess fat and set the beef to the side.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
With the heat still on medium, add the diced onion, garlic, and jalapeños to the same pot. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables become tender and aromatic.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes, Beans, and Spices
Return the browned beef back to the pot. Then, mix in the diced tomatoes, black beans, chili powder, cumin, and chicken broth. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Simmer the Chili
Bring the chili to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This simmering time helps all the flavors meld together perfectly.

Step 5: Incorporate the Cream Cheese and Turkey Bacon
Stir in the cream cheese thoroughly until it melts and blends into the chili. Add the crumbled turkey bacon and keep stirring until the entire mixture is nice and creamy.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the jalapeño popper chili into bowls, top it with some shredded cheddar cheese, and enjoy every deliciously rich and spicy spoonful!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving:
This chili is best served hot. Feel free to top it with extra shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, or even a dollop of sour cream for an added twist. It pairs wonderfully with cornbread or crunchy tortilla chips.

Storage:
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the chili in a pot on low heat, stirring occasionally.

Helpful Notes

• Adjust Heat Level: Feel free to modify the spice by adding more or fewer jalapeños based on your taste preferences. If you enjoy a milder chili, remove the seeds from the jalapeños.
• For Thicker Chili: If desired, let the chili simmer longer to reduce the liquid, or add more beans for that thicker texture.
• Protein Alternatives: If you’d like, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef to suit your taste or dietary needs.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the ground beef first, then combine all ingredients (excluding the cream cheese and cheddar cheese) in the slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6 hours, adding the cheeses in the last 30 minutes to maintain their creamy texture.

Q2: Is it possible to make this chili vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for more beans or a plant-based ground meat alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fulfilling vegetarian option.

Q3: How can I make this chili extra creamy?
For an even creamier chili, you can add additional cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream, stirring well to achieve that smooth consistency.

Q4: What other toppings can I add?
Absolutely! You can elevate your chili with toppings such as avocado, fresh cilantro, or crunchy crushed tortilla chips for extra flavor and texture.

Q5: Can I freeze this chili?
Yes! Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it on the stove.