These easy Spicy CrockPot Chili Nuts make a terrific snack. Prepare a batch to enjoy throughout the week — they’re spicy, savory, and simple to make.
Crock Pot Chili Nuts
I asked readers what non-traditional Crock Pot recipes they’d like to see, and this idea was a hit. These Crock Pot Chili Nuts are a fun, flavorful twist on a classic snack.
They work well as an everyday nibble, a party appetizer, or a crunchy addition to snack platters. The recipe is forgiving — use the nuts and seasonings you prefer.
Ingredients
Here’s an overview of the ingredients you’ll need. The recipe card below lists exact amounts and step-by-step instructions.
- Butter (melted)
- Cocktail peanuts (or your favorite nut)
- Chili seasoning mix
Optional add-ins: extra salt, chili powder, cayenne, cumin, or a dash of hot sauce to increase heat. You can substitute peanuts with almonds, cashews, or a mixed nut blend.
Equipment Needed
Slow cooker (a model with a digital timer that switches to warm is helpful) and a spoon or spatula for stirring.
How to Make CrockPot Spicy Chili Nuts
Full instructions are available in the printable recipe card below. A brief summary:
- Pour melted butter over the nuts in the slow cooker, sprinkle with chili seasoning, and stir to coat.
- Cover and heat on low for 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring occasionally if possible.
- Turn the cooker to high, remove the lid, and cook an additional 10–15 minutes to dry and crisp the nuts.
When finished, spread the nuts in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool. This helps them crisp up and prevents sticking.
Preparation and Storage
Make Ahead + Storage: The nuts cook for about two hours, giving you time to prepare other dishes or relax. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Freezing: Freeze cooled nuts in a sealed freezer bag or container for up to one month.
Reheating: Reheat briefly in the microwave for about a minute if you prefer them warm, or use straight from the fridge or freezer in recipes and snack mixes.
Recipe Variations & Tips
Substitutions: Use any nut you like. If you want a different flavor profile, swap the chili seasoning for smoked paprika, chipotle, or a combination of cayenne and garlic powder.
Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian as written.
Vegan: Replace butter with a plant-based buttery spread or neutral oil to make it vegan.
Gluten-Free: Check that your chili seasoning and other ingredients are labeled gluten-free if you need a gluten-free snack.
Scaling: The base recipe yields multiple servings — scale up or down as needed and work in batches if using a smaller slow cooker.
Low Sugar: This savory recipe has very little sugar, making it a good option for those avoiding sweet snacks.
Nutrition details will vary depending on the specific products you choose.
What to Serve with CrockPot Spicy Chili Nuts
These crunchy, salty nuts pair nicely with refreshing beverages and other savory snacks. They complement snack mixes, crackers, roasted seeds, and spicy pretzels, making them a solid choice for cocktail hour, game day, or casual entertaining.
When to Serve
- Easy savory snack
- Cocktail night
- Parties
- Movie night
- Football gatherings
Related Nut Recipes
Try other Crock Pot nut recipes for variety, such as sweet and spicy nuts, candied walnuts or pecans, boiled peanuts, and peanut clusters prepared in a slow cooker.
Spicy Crock Pot Chili Nuts
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Ingredients
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 24 Ounce Cocktail Peanuts
- 1 ⅝ Ounce Chili Seasoning
Instructions
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Pour butter over nuts in crock pot, sprinkle with chili mix, stir together
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Cover and heat on low for 2 to 2.5 hours
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Turn to high and remove lid, cook additional 10-15 minutes
Kitchen Tools
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Slow cooker
Nutrition
Calories from Fat 162
Recipe originally shared on February 12, 2014. Updated October 2020.