This easy slow cooker chili cheese fries recipe is a game-changer for any casual get-together or family dinner. With hearty beef chili, crispy french fries, and a blend of melted cheese, it's the ultimate comfort food.
Photos of Easy Slow Cooker Chili Cheese Fries Recipe
While most of the ingredients for this recipe are pantry staples, you might need to pick up some less common items like canned tomato with green chiles and pickled jalapeños. Make sure to grab a frozen bag of french fries and a Mexican cheese blend from the supermarket.
Ingredients For Easy Slow Cooker Chili Cheese Fries
beef: Used as the main protein in the chili, adding a rich, meaty flavor.
yellow onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth to the chili.
canned tomato with green chiles: Adds a tangy and slightly spicy note to the chili.
kidney beans: Adds texture and a mild, earthy flavor to the chili.
black beans: Complements the kidney beans with a hearty and slightly nutty taste.
chili powder: Brings heat and complexity to the chili.
ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor to the chili.
kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
water: Used in the pickling solution for the jalapeños.
white vinegar: Provides acidity in the pickling solution.
sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the pickling brine.
garlic: Infuses the pickled jalapeños with a savory aroma.
lime zest: Adds a fresh citrus note to the pickling brine.
jalapeños: Provides a spicy kick when pickled and used as a garnish.
frozen french fries: Forms the crispy base for the chili cheese fries.
Mexican cheese blend: Melts beautifully over the chili, adding creaminess and flavor.
sour cream: Adds a cool, tangy contrast to the spicy chili.
scallions: Provides a fresh, oniony garnish for the finished dish.
One reader, Davis Cross says:
This easy slow cooker chili cheese fries recipe is a game-changer! The chili is rich and flavorful, and the pickled jalapeños add the perfect kick. Topped with melted cheese and sour cream, it's a crowd-pleaser that’s super simple to make. Perfect for game day or a cozy night in!
Techniques Required for Making Slow Cooker Chili Cheese Fries
Yes.
How to cook ground beef: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
How to pickle jalapeños: Combine vinegar, water, salt, sugar, garlic, and lime zest in a saucepan, bring to a boil, then pour over sliced jalapeños in a jar and let cool.
How to bake french fries: Preheat the oven according to the package instructions, spread fries on a baking sheet, and bake for the specified time.
How to melt cheese in the oven: After topping the fries with chili and cheese, return to the oven until the cheese is fully melted.
I love making homemade slow cooked chili cheese fries at home. It’s the perfect appetizer to munch on when it’s game season, or for a simple hangout with friends. These chili cheese fries are a fave of mine because they combine crispy french fries with homemade spicy chili. I’m a fan of chilis, and this recipe really satisfies my craving for both dishes. What I love about these chili fries is the smoky chili blending together with the melted cheese and french fries to create a rich and flavorful appetizer. The added toppings and garnish as well elevate the taste even further with its crisp, tangy, and subtle spicy flavors.
I made these loaded cheese fries using a slow cooker since I was making homemade chili with it. Store bought canned chili is fine, but I honestly prefer the taste of making it myself. The ingredients are fresher and its taste is definitely a hundred times better than the canned chili ones. I combined ground beef, onion, chopped tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, and salt in the crockpot. If you want, you can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to try a variety of flavors. For a vegetarian-friendly variation, you can skip the meat altogether for the chili and focus on the beans and seasonings.
Afterwards, I cooked on low for a few hours, stirring it often to make sure it blends together. Slow cooking the chili helps keep it from overcooking. The constant long and low temperature cooking tenderizes the meat and the other ingredients. It brings out the flavor of the chili after it’s done cooking. Also, the long waiting gives me more time to prepare the other ingredients.
Next step is to make the pickled jalapeños. Similar to the chili, I combined the vinegar, water, salt, sugar, garlic, and lime zest in a small saucepan and boiled it. I didn’t want to just add chopped jalapeños to my dish though. So, I included this additional step of pickling the jalapeños so they’re extra flavorful and tangy as a topping. I let it simmer and then added the jalapeños. Transfer this mixture to a large, heatproof, mason jar and let it cool for about an hour before using it. You can also refrigerate these pickled jalapeños for future use.
The last step was the french fries. Since I was waiting for the chili to cook, I made these fries last so they were still a bit warm and crispy when served. I made them when there were only a few minutes left on my chili. Instead of frying them, I baked these frozen french fries until they were golden brown in color. I suggest baking your fries so that you won’t have to deal with draining excess oil, or getting greasy fries. Bake for a few minutes then add in the chili and shredded cheese, and cook for another 5 minutes so the cheese melts. I actually wanted this dish to be extra cheesy so I also made a homemade cheese sauce afterwards to use as an additional dip for the fries.
Once it’s done, I added the sour cream, green onions, and pickled jalapeños on top to complete the dish. It was so delicious and really filling to eat. Also, I highly recommend adding in more of the chili and cheese if you’re serving it to homemade chili lovers just like me! After all, it’s all about the toppings for chili cheese fries!
How To Make Easy Slow Cooker Chili Cheese Fries
This chili cheese fries recipe is two dishes in one! The savory chili topped with jalapeños is mixed with thick-cut cheesy fries for a satisfying meal.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Slow-Cooked Chili:
- 1 lb beef
- 1 cup yellow onion, diced
- 2 cans tomato with green chiles, diced or chopped
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp kosher salt
For Pickled Jalapeños:
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup white vinegar, distilled
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 lime zest, strips
- 6 jalapeñoes, sliced into ½ in, (1¼ cm), round
For Chili Cheese Fries:
- 1 bag frozen french fries, preferably crinkle cut
- 1 cup mexican cheese blend, or cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup sour cream
- 4 scallions, or green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
Slow-Cooked Chili:
- Using a slow cooker, combine the ground beef, onion, chopped tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Cover and cook on Low, stirring often, for about 6 hours.
Pickled Jalapeños:
- While the chili cooks, make the pickled jalapeños. In a small saucepan, combine the vinegar, water, salt, sugar, garlic, and lime zest.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer until the salt and sugar have dissolved, about 2 minutes.
- Add the jalapeños to a medium heatproof bowl or large mason jar. Carefully pour the pickling liquid over the jalapeños, making sure they are fully submerged.
- Let the pickles cool to room temperature, about 1 hour. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or seal the jar and transfer it to the refrigerator until ready to use.
Chili Cheese Fries:
- Meanwhile, preheat the oven according to the French fry package instructions.
- Spread the French fries in an even layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 3 minutes less than the package instructs.
- Remove the fries from the oven and top with several large scoops of chili. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Return to the oven for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely.
- Dollop the sour cream on top of the chili cheese fries, then garnish with the scallions or green onions and pickled jalapeños. Let cool slightly, then serve directly off of the pan.
Nutrition
- Calories: 419.84kcal
- Fat: 16.44g
- Saturated Fat: 8.27g
- Trans Fat: 0.45g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5.26g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.42g
- Carbohydrates: 37.50g
- Fiber: 12.53g
- Sugar: 6.67g
- Protein: 32.48g
- Cholesterol: 80.03mg
- Sodium: 1064.31mg
- Calcium: 302.91mg
- Potassium: 1016.00mg
- Iron: 6.35mg
- Vitamin A: 150.99µg
- Vitamin C: 58.83mg
Crucial Technique for Perfecting Slow Cooker Chili Cheese Fries
To ensure your french fries stay crispy under the chili, bake them until they are golden brown and slightly overdone before adding the toppings. This will help them maintain their texture even after being topped with the chili and cheese.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe
Pre-cook the beef: Brown the ground beef in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This reduces the overall cooking time and enhances the flavor.
Use canned beans: Opt for canned beans instead of dried ones to save time on soaking and cooking.
Pre-made pickled jalapeños: Purchase store-bought pickled jalapeños to skip the pickling process entirely.
Frozen onions: Use pre-chopped frozen onions to save time on chopping and reduce prep work.
Microwave the fries: Partially cook the frozen french fries in the microwave before baking to cut down on oven time.
Substitute Ingredients For Easy Slow Cooker Chili Cheese Fries Recipe
beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can provide a similar texture and flavor profile in the chili.
yellow onion - Substitute with red onion: Red onions have a slightly milder flavor and can add a bit of color to the dish.
tomato with green chiles - Substitute with diced tomatoes and a can of green chiles: This combination will provide the same flavor and texture as the pre-mixed cans.
kidney bean - Substitute with pinto beans: Pinto beans have a similar texture and can absorb the flavors of the chili well.
black beans - Substitute with cannellini beans: Cannellini beans are creamy and can add a different texture to the chili.
chili powder - Substitute with paprika and cayenne pepper: This combination can mimic the heat and smokiness of chili powder.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a slightly citrusy flavor that can complement the other spices in the chili.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar level of saltiness and is often used interchangeably with kosher salt.
water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can add more depth of flavor to the pickling liquid.
white vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a slightly sweeter and fruitier flavor that can enhance the pickling process.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide a natural sweetness and a slightly different flavor profile.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can add a subtle sweetness to the pickling liquid.
lime zest - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest can provide a similar citrusy brightness to the pickled jalapeños.
jalapeños - Substitute with serrano peppers: Serrano peppers are slightly hotter but can provide a similar flavor and texture.
frozen french fries - Substitute with sweet potato fries: Sweet potato fries can add a different flavor and a bit of sweetness to the dish.
mexican cheese blend - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese melts well and can provide a similar cheesy flavor.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a healthier option and can provide a similar tangy creaminess.
scallions - Substitute with chives: Chives have a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish.
Best Way to Present Slow Cooker Chili Cheese Fries
Serve in a cast iron skillet: Present the chili cheese fries in a small, pre-warmed cast iron skillet to maintain heat and add a rustic, gourmet touch.
Layer the ingredients: Start with a base of crispy french fries, followed by a generous layer of slow-cooked chili. Ensure each layer is evenly distributed for balanced flavors.
Melt the cheese perfectly: Use a culinary torch to melt the Mexican cheese blend evenly over the chili, creating a beautiful, golden-brown crust.
Garnish with precision: Dollop sour cream in small, elegant quenelles using a hot spoon. Finely chop the scallions and sprinkle them delicately over the dish.
Add pickled jalapeños artistically: Arrange the pickled jalapeños in a visually appealing pattern, ensuring they are evenly spaced and add a pop of color.
Finish with microgreens: Add a touch of freshness with a small handful of microgreens or fresh herbs like cilantro, placed strategically on top.
Serve with a side of lime wedges: Offer a small dish of lime wedges on the side to allow diners to add a burst of citrus if desired.
Use a wooden board: Place the cast iron skillet on a polished wooden board for an elevated presentation that contrasts beautifully with the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Chili Cheese Fries in a Slow Cooker
Slow cooker: Used to cook the chili slowly over several hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Small saucepan: Used to prepare the pickling liquid for the jalapeños.
Medium heatproof bowl: Used to hold the jalapeños while they are being pickled.
Large mason jar: An alternative to the heatproof bowl for storing the pickled jalapeños.
Plastic wrap: Used to cover the bowl of pickled jalapeños while they cool to room temperature.
Rimmed baking sheet: Used to spread out the french fries for baking.
Oven: Used to bake the french fries and melt the cheese on top of the chili cheese fries.
Large spoon: Used to scoop the chili onto the french fries.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out ingredients like water, vinegar, and onions.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out smaller quantities of ingredients like salt, sugar, chili powder, and cumin.
Knife: Used to chop the yellow onion and slice the jalapeños.
Cutting board: Used as a surface for chopping the onion and slicing the jalapeños.
Garlic press: Used to crush the garlic cloves for the pickling liquid.
Zester: Used to zest the limes for the pickling liquid.
Mixing spoon: Used to stir the chili in the slow cooker and the pickling liquid in the saucepan.
Serving spatula: Used to serve the chili cheese fries directly from the baking sheet.
Storing and Freezing Homemade Chili Cheese Fries
- Let the chili cheese fries cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, place the fries on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melted.
- If you want to freeze the chili separately, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To reheat frozen chili, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- It's not recommended to freeze the french fries or the assembled chili cheese fries, as the fries may become soggy and lose their texture upon thawing and reheating.
- The pickled jalapeños can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 month in an airtight container.
How To Reheat Leftover Chili Cheese Fries
- The best way to reheat leftover chili cheese fries is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spread the fries out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help the fries crisp up again and prevent them from sticking to the pan.
- If your leftover chili has thickened up in the fridge, add a splash of water or beef broth to loosen it up before reheating. This will help the chili maintain its smooth, saucy consistency.
- Spoon the chili evenly over the fries and sprinkle on some extra shredded cheese. The cheese will melt and create a gooey, delicious layer on top of the fries.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the fries are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on the fries to make sure they don't burn.
- If you want to add some extra toppings, like sour cream, pickled jalapeños, or chopped scallions, wait until the fries are heated through before adding them. This will prevent the toppings from getting too warm and melting or wilting.
- For a quicker reheating method, you can use the microwave. Place the leftover chili cheese fries in a microwave-safe dish and heat them in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until they're heated through. However, keep in mind that the fries may become soggy in the microwave and won't have the same crispy texture as when reheated in the oven.
- If you have an air fryer, you can also use it to reheat your leftover chili cheese fries. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the fries in the basket. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the fries are crispy and heated through. Then, top with the chili and cheese and heat for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Interesting Trivia About Chili Cheese Fries
A fun fact about this recipe is that the pickled jalapeños add a tangy and spicy kick, which complements the rich and hearty chili. This combination of flavors creates a delicious contrast that enhances the overall taste of the chili cheese fries.
Is Making Chili Cheese Fries at Home Cost-Effective?
This easy slow cooker chili cheese fries recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using ground beef, canned beans, and frozen french fries keeps costs low while providing a hearty meal. The homemade pickled jalapeños add a gourmet touch without breaking the bank. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD, making it an affordable yet delicious option for a family dinner.
Is This Chili Cheese Fries Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This slow cooker chili cheese fries recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:
- High calorie density: The combination of ground beef, cheese, and french fries makes this dish calorie-dense, which can contribute to weight gain if consumed regularly.
- Saturated fat: Ground beef and cheese are high in saturated fat, which can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
- Sodium: Canned beans, tomatoes, and processed cheese often contain high levels of sodium, which can lead to high blood pressure and other health issues.
- Refined carbohydrates: Frozen french fries are typically made from white potatoes and are considered a refined carbohydrate, lacking in fiber and nutrients compared to whole food options.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Use lean ground turkey or a plant-based alternative instead of ground beef to reduce saturated fat content
- Opt for low-sodium canned beans and tomatoes to decrease the overall sodium levels
- Incorporate more vegetables into the chili, such as diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini, to increase fiber and nutrient density
- Swap out half of the french fries with sweet potato fries or wedges for added nutrients and fiber
- Use a reduced-fat cheese or sprinkle a smaller amount of full-fat cheese to decrease the calorie and saturated fat content
- Serve the chili cheese fries with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the meal and add more nutrients
Editor's Opinion on This Slow Cooker Chili Cheese Fries Recipe
This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors with minimal effort. The slow-cooked chili, rich with spices and hearty beans, pairs perfectly with crispy fries. The pickled jalapeños add a tangy kick, balancing the richness of the cheese and sour cream. The step-by-step instructions are clear and manageable, making it accessible even for novice cooks. Overall, it's a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for casual gatherings or game day.
Enhance Your Easy Slow Cooker Chili Cheese Fries Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Easy Slow Cooker Chili Cheese Fries Recipe:
This recipe combines the convenience of a slow cooker with the irresistible appeal of chili cheese fries. The slow-cooked chili ensures deep, rich flavors, while the pickled jalapeños add a tangy kick. Using frozen french fries makes preparation a breeze, and the Mexican cheese blend melts perfectly over the top. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for game day or a casual family dinner. Trust this recipe for its simplicity, flavor, and the satisfaction it brings to every bite.
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