This hearty and flavorful chili is the ultimate comfort food, featuring a spicy kick from chipotle, a creamy richness from cheddar and cream cheese, and tender beef for a filling, satisfying meal. Perfect for chilly evenings, it’s easy to prepare and even better when topped with your favorite garnishes. Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner or craving something warm, this chili will hit the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This easy Chipotle Cheddar Beef Chili combines bold flavors with a comforting, creamy texture. The smoky chipotle chile powder and Gochujang chili paste bring the heat, while the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese create a rich, velvety finish. Packed with tender ground beef, spicy poblano peppers, and hearty beans, it's a filling meal that's both easy to make and deliciously satisfying. Whether you're feeding a crowd or enjoying a hearty meal on your own, this chili delivers comfort in every bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 pounds ground beef
2 yellow onions, chopped
2 poblano peppers, seeded and chopped
1 tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons chipotle chile powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 can (28 ounce) crushed fire roasted tomatoes
1 can (8 ounce) tomato paste
1 can (4 ounce) diced green chilies
2-3 tablespoons Gochujang chili paste, to taste
3 tablespoons salted butter
3 tablespoons tamari/soy sauce
2-3 cups chicken or beef broth
6 ounces cream cheese (at room temperature)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can mixed chili beans, drained
Cilantro, green onion, avocado, and Greek yogurt for serving

Directions

In a large Dutch oven, heat the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up as it cooks until browned. Once browned, add the chopped onions and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the chopped poblano peppers, chili powder, chipotle chile powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cumin. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until fragrant.
Stir in the crushed fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato paste, Gochujang chili paste, butter, and diced green chilies. Add 2 cups of broth and tamari (or soy sauce) to the mixture. Stir everything together until well combined.
Partially cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let the chili simmer for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. You can simmer it longer for a deeper, richer flavor.
Towards the end of cooking, stir in the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and chili beans. Continue to cook for about 5 more minutes until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the chili.
Ladle the chili into bowls, and top with desired garnishes like Greek yogurt, cheese, avocado, cilantro, and green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and timing

Servings: 8 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Spicier Chili: If you want your chili to have an extra kick, add more Gochujang or chipotle chile powder.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with plant-based protein, such as lentils, tempeh, or textured vegetable protein (TVP).
Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Pepper Jack or Monterey Jack can add even more melt-in-your-mouth creaminess and spice.
Beans: Use different types of beans, such as black beans, kidney beans, or white beans, depending on your preference.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Allow the chili to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the chili for up to 3 months. Just store it in a freezer-safe container, and be sure to leave some room for expansion.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for beef if you prefer a leaner option.

Is this chili gluten-free?

If you use tamari instead of soy sauce, the chili will be gluten-free. Always double-check the labels for any gluten-containing ingredients.

How can I make this chili milder?

To reduce the heat, use less chipotle chile powder and Gochujang chili paste, or omit them entirely for a more mild flavor.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You'll need to dice about 5-6 medium tomatoes to replace the 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes. You may need to cook them a bit longer to get the right consistency.

Can I add more vegetables to this chili?

Absolutely! Try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to enhance the texture and flavor.

Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Brown the beef and sauté the onions, peppers, and spices before transferring everything into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cheeses and beans during the last 30 minutes.

How do I thicken the chili?

If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for a longer period, or you can add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it.

Can I add more cheese to the chili?

Absolutely! You can add as much cheddar as you like or experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy twist.

What are some good toppings for chili?

Toppings like chopped cilantro, diced avocado, shredded cheese, green onions, and a dollop of Greek yogurt all make excellent additions to this chili.

Conclusion

This Easy Chipotle Cheddar Beef Chili is the perfect balance of bold flavors, creamy cheese, and tender beef. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to feed a crowd, this chili delivers. It's versatile, customizable, and full of flavor, making it a great dish for anyone who loves a little heat and a lot of comfort. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings, and savor the warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful!