Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili is a delightful twist on traditional chili that combines the savory flavors of Turkey Bacon and ground beef with a surprisingly sweet secret—Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup. This unique dish is not only perfect for casual gatherings, but it also shines at potlucks and family dinners. The blend of spices, meats, and beans creates a hearty meal that will leave your guests talking about it long after the last bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor Combination: The addition of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup gives this chili an unexpected sweetness that perfectly balances the savory ingredients.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein from Turkey Bacon and beef, this chili is filling enough to be a complete meal on its own.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delicious dish in just an hour.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or use it as a topping for baked potatoes or nachos.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This chili stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for meal planning.
Tools and Preparation
Before starting your cooking adventure, gather the essential tools that will make preparing Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Can opener
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: This versatile pot allows for even cooking and is perfect for simmering chili over low heat.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are essential for balancing flavors in this unique recipe.
Ingredients
For the Meat Mixture
- 1/2 pound Turkey Bacon, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 pound ground beef or sausage
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 whole onion, diced
For the Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons Chipotle chili powder
- 1 tablespoon Chili powder
- 2 tablespoons Better than Bouillon, Beef Flavored
For the Base
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 14.5 ounces fire-roasted tomatoes
- 15.5 ounces chili beans
- 2 teaspoons salt
For the Secret Ingredient
- 1 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili
Step 1: Cook Turkey Bacon
Begin cooking cut Turkey Bacon in the bottom of a Dutch oven. When Turkey Bacon is half cooked, add the ground beef. Break apart the meat to begin cooking thoroughly.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Spices
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the meat mixture. Stir to combine. Then add half of the chili powder and chipotle powder along with Better than Bouillon. Continue to cook until the meat is fully cooked.
Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes and Beans
Pour in both crushed tomatoes and fire-roasted tomatoes into the meat mixture. Stir in salt and beans until everything is combined.
Step 4: Melt in the Secret Ingredient
Combine the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup into the chili mixture. Stir well until it completely melts into the sauce.
Step 5: Simmer
Let your chili simmer for at least 30 minutes or longer if time allows, allowing all flavors to meld together beautifully.
Enjoy your delicious Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili!
How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili
Serving Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili can elevate any meal. This unique dish pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its rich and savory flavor profile. Here are some creative serving suggestions to consider.
Top with Cheese
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese on top for a creamy, melty finish.
Add Sour Cream
- A dollop of sour cream adds a tangy contrast to the chili’s sweetness.
Garnish with Green Onions
- Chopped green onions provide a fresh crunch that complements the hearty chili.
Serve with Cornbread
- Pairing chili with warm cornbread creates a comforting and satisfying meal.
Accompany with Tortilla Chips
- Crispy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up the chili and adding extra texture.
Offer Avocado Slices
- Creamy avocado slices can balance the heat and richness of the chili.
How to Perfect Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili
Making the perfect Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili involves a few key techniques. Consider these tips to elevate your dish.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality meats enhance flavors significantly.
- Adjust spice levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of chipotle chili powder you use.
- Simmer longer: Allowing the chili to simmer for more than 30 minutes deepens the flavors.
- Experiment with toppings: Try different toppings like jalapeños or olives for added flair.
- Balance sweetness: Adjust the amount of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup according to your taste preference.
- Store leftovers properly: Keep leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.
Best Side Dishes for Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili
Pairing sides with your Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili can enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious options that complement this unique dish perfectly.
- Cornbread Muffins
Fluffy, slightly sweet muffins that pair beautifully with chili. - Garlic Breadsticks
Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter add a delightful flavor contrast. - Coleslaw
A refreshing coleslaw provides crunch and balances the richness of the chili. - Baked Potatoes
Fluffy baked potatoes topped with butter serve as a hearty side option. - Rice Pilaf
Light and fluffy rice pilaf absorbs flavors well, making it an excellent accompaniment. - Pickled Jalapeños
For those who enjoy a kick, pickled jalapeños add spice and acidity to every bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the Bacon: Not starting with Turkey Bacon can lead to a less flavorful base. The fat and smokiness from the bacon enhance the overall taste of the chili.
- Overcooking the Meat: Cooking the ground beef too long can make it tough. Cook until just browned, as it will continue cooking while simmering.
- Ignoring Seasonings: Forgetting to add enough chili powder can result in bland chili. Always taste as you go and adjust seasonings accordingly.
- Not Melting the Peanut Butter Cup: Adding the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup without fully melting it can leave chunks. Make sure to stir well until it completely integrates into the chili.
- Rushing the Simmering Process: Skipping the simmering time minimizes flavor development. Allow at least 30 minutes for all ingredients to meld beautifully.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- The chili keeps well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- The chili can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to label with date and contents.
Reheating Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Place servings in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili?
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili is a unique take on traditional chili that includes Turkey Bacon, ground beef, beans, and a secret ingredient—a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup that adds a subtle sweetness and richness.
Can I use other meats in this chili?
Yes! You can easily substitute ground turkey or sausage for the beef if you prefer different flavors or textures.
How spicy is this chili?
The spiciness depends on your tolerance and how much chipotle chili powder you use. You can adjust spices to your liking by adding more or less.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute ground meat with plant-based options like lentils or meat alternatives. Just ensure your beans are vegetarian-friendly.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The total time for preparing Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili is about 60 minutes, including both prep and cooking time.
Final Thoughts
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili is not only delicious but also versatile. Its combination of flavors creates a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it further by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices to suit your palate. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite chili!
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili is a surprising and delightful take on classic chili that combines the savory goodness of Turkey Bacon and ground beef with an unexpected sweet twist—Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. This unique dish is perfect for casual gatherings, potlucks, or cozy family dinners. The harmonious blend of spices, meats, and beans creates a hearty meal that will leave your guests raving long after the last bowl. Easy to prepare and versatile enough to adapt to various occasions, this chili can stand alone or be served over baked potatoes or nachos. Plus, it’s great for meal prep, making it a fantastic addition to your weekly menu!
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 1/2 pound Turkey Bacon
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 whole onion
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 1 Reese's Peanut Butter Cup
- 2 teaspoons Chipotle chili powder
- 1 tablespoon Chili powder
- 2 tablespoons Better than Bouillon
- 14.5 ounces fire-roasted tomatoes
- 15.5 ounces chili beans
- 2 teaspoons salt
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven, cook the Turkey Bacon until half done; add ground beef and cook thoroughly.
- Stir in diced onion and minced garlic, followed by chipotle chili powder and Better than Bouillon.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and beans; mix well with salt.
- Add the Reese's Peanut Butter Cup; stir until melted into the chili.
- Simmer for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor. Adjust spice levels according to your preference. Simmer longer for deeper flavors.
