Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili is a delicious and surprising twist on traditional chili. This unique dish combines the rich flavors of ground beef and turkey bacon with the unexpected sweetness of a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, making it perfect for chilly nights or gatherings. With its balance of savory and sweet, this chili will stand out at any dinner table or potluck.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: The blend of peanut butter and chili spices creates a bold taste that surprises and delights.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Perfect for Entertaining: This chili is sure to impress guests, offering a creative spin on classic recipes.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it alone or with toppings like cheese, sour cream, or avocado for added flavor.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from beef and beans, it’s a hearty meal that satisfies.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make all the difference in your cooking experience. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili effectively.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: This heavy pot provides even heat distribution, perfect for simmering chili.
• Cutting board: A stable surface ensures safe chopping of vegetables and meat.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of dicing onions and garlic, saving you prep time.
• Stirring spoon: A sturdy spoon helps mix ingredients thoroughly while cooking.

Ingredients

For the Meat Base

• 1/2 pound Turkey Bacon, cut into 1/2 inch pieces
• 1 pound ground beef
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 whole onion, diced

For the Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons Chipotle chili powder
• 1 tablespoon Chilli powder
• 2 tablespoons Better than Bouillon, Beef Flavored

For the Tomato Base

• 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
• 14.5 ounces fire-roasted tomatoes

For the Beans

• 15.5 ounces chili beans
• 2 teaspoons salt

Special Ingredient

• 1 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup

How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili

Step 1: Cook the 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 to begin cooking.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Seasonings

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the meat mixture. Stir to combine. Add half of the chili powder and chipotle powder. Incorporate the Better than Bouillon into the mix. Continue to cook until all meat is fully cooked.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Beans

Pour in both crushed tomatoes and fire-roasted tomatoes into the pot. Stir in salt along with the chili beans for flavor.

Step 4: Incorporate Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup

Combine one Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup into the chili mixture. Stir well until completely melted and integrated into the dish.

Step 5: Simmer

Let your chili simmer for at least 30 minutes or longer for deeper flavors to develop. Enjoy your delicious creation!

This recipe yields about 8 servings, making it fantastic for sharing or meal prepping throughout the week!

How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili

Serving Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili can elevate your dining experience. This unique dish pairs well with a variety of sides and toppings that enhance its rich flavors and intriguing blend of spices.

With Toppings

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy texture that balances the chili’s heat.
• Shredded Cheese – Sprinkle shredded cheese on top for a melty, savory addition that complements the peanut butter flavor.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions add a crunchy bite and a pop of color, enhancing presentation.

As a Dip

• Tortilla Chips – Serve your chili as a dip with crispy tortilla chips for a fun appetizer at gatherings.
• Vegetable Sticks – Pair with celery, carrots, or bell peppers for a healthier option that still delivers crunch.

In a Bowl

• Cilantro Garnish – Top each bowl with fresh cilantro for an herbaceous touch that brightens the dish.
• Avocado Slices – Add sliced avocado for creaminess and healthy fats, making every bite satisfying.

How to Perfect Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili

Perfecting your Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili involves simple adjustments that enhance flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for high-quality ground beef and fresh vegetables.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Taste as you cook; add more chili powder or chipotle powder if you prefer extra heat.
• Let it Simmer Longer – Allow the chili to simmer longer than 30 minutes to deepen the flavors and improve the texture.
• Experiment with Beans – Try different beans like black beans or kidney beans for varied taste and nutrition.
• Balance Sweetness – If the peanut butter makes it too sweet, add a pinch of salt or squeeze of lime juice to balance flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili can create a well-rounded meal. Consider these delicious options to complement your main dish.

1. Cornbread – A sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up chili while offering a delightful contrast in texture.
2. Rice – Serve over white or brown rice for an added layer of heartiness that balances the chili’s richness.
3. Salad – A light salad with mixed greens provides freshness and crunch, counteracting the bold flavors of the chili.
4. Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes can serve as an excellent base, allowing guests to load them up with chili on top.
5. Grilled Veggies – Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus offer a smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with chili.
6. Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and are great for dipping into the chili as well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be challenging, especially when trying a new recipe like Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong meat: Ensure you use ground beef or turkey instead of sausage or pork. This keeps the chili flavorful and compliant with dietary preferences.
• Not measuring spices accurately: Add spices like chili powder carefully. Too much can overpower the dish, while too little may leave it bland.
• Skipping the simmering step: Simmering allows flavors to meld together. Avoid rushing this step for the best taste.
• Forgetting to melt the peanut butter cup thoroughly: Make sure to stir in the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup until fully melted to achieve that unique flavor blend.
• Not adjusting seasoning after cooking: Taste your chili before serving. Adjust salt or spices as needed for a balanced flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow chili to cool completely before sealing for better preservation.

Freezing Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili

• Freeze in labeled freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, about 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili:

What makes Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili unique?

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili stands out due to its unexpected combination of savory chili flavors with a touch of sweetness from the peanut butter cup, creating a delightful twist on traditional chili.

Can I use other types of meat in this chili?

Yes! While ground beef is recommended, you can also use ground turkey or lamb as delicious alternatives that pair well with the chili spices.

How spicy is Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili?

The spice level depends on how much chipotle chili powder you use. You can adjust it based on your preference by adding more or less as desired.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and ensure all other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly to create a tasty vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili is not just a unique dish but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adjusting spices or even adding different beans and vegetables. Whether you serve it at a gathering or enjoy it as a cozy night-in meal, it’s sure to impress. Try making it today!