Slow Cooker Cheesy Chili

Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or kidney beans for extra protein and fiber.

Serve the chili with a dollop of sour cream, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

If the chili is too thick, thin it out with some beef broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.

To save time, you can brown the meat and onions the night before and refrigerate them until ready to assemble the chili in the crockpot.

What can I use instead of Cheez Whiz?

Use shredded or cubed American cheese or Velveeta. You need a good melty cheese.

How do you serve the chili?

It's great served over French fries, nacho chips, hot dogs, or baked potatoes. Or serve it as is with some crackers.

What other kind of meats can I use in this chili?

You can use any combination of ground meats like turkey, chicken, or pork.

What can I use if I don't have nacho cheese soup?

If you don't have nacho cheese soup, you can use a combination of cheddar cheese soup and a sprinkle of taco seasoning for a similar flavor.

Can I freeze this cheesy chili?

Yes, this chili freezes well. Cool it completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?

Leftover cheesy chili can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I make this chili spicier?

Add some diced jalapenos, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to kick up the heat level to your preference.

Skillet: Used to brown the ground beef, Italian sausage, and onions before transferring them to the crock pot. Choose a skillet large enough to accommodate all the ingredients.

Crock Pot or Slow Cooker: The main cooking vessel for this recipe. Allows the cheesy chili to simmer and develop flavor over a few hours.

Can Opener: Necessary for opening the cans of chili beans, diced tomatoes, nacho cheese soup, sliced mushrooms, and tomato sauce.

Stirring Spoon or Spatula: For combining all the ingredients in the crock pot and ensuring even distribution of flavors.

Cheese Grater (optional): If you prefer freshly grated cheddar cheese on top of your cheesy chili, a cheese grater can be used to shred the cheese.

Cornbread muffins: the sweet cornbread will balance out the savory and spicy flavors of the cheesy chili, creating a delicious contrast between the two.

Pickled jalapenos: the acidity and crunch of the pickled jalapenos will add a burst of heat to the rich and cheesy chili.

Freshly diced avocado: the creamy and mild flavor of the avocado will provide a cool and refreshing contrast to the hot and spicy cheesy chili.

Crunchy tortilla chips: the crunch of the tortilla chips will add texture to the cheesy chili.

Wine Pairings
Zinfandel: The bold flavors of a good Zinfandel can stand up to the hearty meatiness and spice of your cheesy chili. Look for one with a bit of sweetness to it, which will complement the tomato base perfectly.

Malbec: Its juicy, dark fruit flavors and softer tannins make it a match for the richness of the chili and the tang of the cheese.

Garnacha: If your chili leans on the spicier side, a fruity Garnacha can be your culinary fire extinguisher. Its ripe red berry flavors and hint of spice make it a perfect companion to your dish.

Other Alcohol Pairings
Beer - American Amber Lager: Sometimes you just can't beat a classic beer and chili combo. An amber lager with its balance of malt and hops, and a clean finish, tidies up after the rich, messy delight of your chili.

Bourbon: A small glass of bourbon, neat or on the rocks, can surprisingly complement your chili. The sweet, warm, and oaky notes can echo the complex spices and richness of the dish.

Bloody Mary: Think of it as a liquid salad with your chili. The tomato base, spice, and citrus in a Bloody Mary make it a playful, if unconventional, buddy to your slow-cooked wonder.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Ginger Beer: The spiciness and carbonation of ginger beer make it a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of cheesy chili.

Iced Tea: A classic, sweet or unsweetened, as per your preference. Its crisp finish can cut through the richness of the dish, refreshing your palate.

Tomato Juice: If you're into the idea of doubling down on tomatoey goodness, why not? The savory umami of tomato juice and its smooth texture pair surprisingly well with the hearty, meaty flavors of your chili.