Beefy Queso Nachos: A Crowd-Pleasing Slow Cooker Appetizer
When it comes to game day snacks or party appetizers, nothing beats a warm, cheesy dip loaded with bold flavors. This Beefy Queso Nachos Slow Cooker Recipe combines savory ground beef, vibrant peppers, and a creamy cheese sauce to create a dip that’s perfect for scooping with tortilla chips. With a quick stovetop prep and a short time in the slow cooker, this dish is easy to make and guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s packed with Tex-Mex flair.
Beefy Queso Nachos: A Crowd-Pleasing Slow Cooker Appetizer
10
servings30
minutes1
hour195
kcalIngredients
For the Meat Mixture:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 poblano pepper, seeded and diced
1 jalapeño pepper, diced (remove seeds for milder heat)
½ teaspoon minced garlic
1 pound lean ground beef
1 tablespoon cumin
1 tablespoon ancho chile powder
1 teaspoon Mexican oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon flour
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
For the Queso:
2 pounds processed cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
⅔ cup milk
Prepared meat mixture
1 large tomato, diced
Directions
- For the Meat Mixture:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a cast iron skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, or until tender.
- Add the diced poblano pepper, diced jalapeño pepper (seeds removed for milder heat), and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
- Add the lean ground beef, cumin, ancho chile powder, Mexican oregano, and salt and pepper to taste to the onion mixture. Stir to combine.
- Cook over medium heat, using a wooden spoon or spatula to break up the beef into small, bite-sized pieces. Drain any excess grease and discard.
- In a 2-cup glass measuring cup, whisk together the flour, beef broth, and tomato paste until well combined. Add this mixture to the ground beef, stirring and cooking until the mixture thickens.
- For the Queso: 6. Transfer the prepared meat mixture, processed cheese cubes, and milk to your Crock-Pot Slow Cooker. 7. Cover and cook on HIGH for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring periodically to ensure even melting. 8. Once the cheese has fully melted, reduce the heat to WARM and stir in the diced tomato. 9. Serve the queso warm with tortilla chips and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
These Beefy Queso Nachos are perfect for parties, game days, or casual get-togethers. Serve the warm queso dip with a big bowl of tortilla chips for dipping, or set up a nacho bar with additional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or sliced jalapeños. For a heartier option, spoon the queso over baked nachos with extra cheese and bake briefly for a loaded nacho platter. Pair with a refreshing side like a citrusy salad or fresh salsa to balance the rich flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Beefy Queso Nachos recipe is the ultimate combination of convenience and bold flavor. The savory meat mixture, spiced with cumin, ancho chile powder, and Mexican oregano, adds depth to the creamy, melty queso. The slow cooker makes the final steps effortless, ensuring a perfectly smooth dip with minimal cleanup. The addition of fresh tomatoes at the end adds a burst of brightness that complements the rich, cheesy texture. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor with home-cooked ease.
With its quick prep and short cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy hosts who want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Try these Beefy Queso Nachos for your next gathering and watch them disappear as guests dig into this irresistible, Tex-Mex-inspired treat!