The Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili Recipe may sound unexpected, but it’s a delightful twist on classic chili that brings together rich, savory flavors with a subtle hint of chocolate and peanut butter sweetness. This dish masterfully balances hearty ground beef and smoky turkey bacon with the warmth of chipotle and chili powders, all elevated by the surprise ingredient of chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup melted into the chili. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a conversation-starting meal for friends, this chili recipe is sure to warm your soul and excite your taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This chili features a simple yet essential lineup of ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the savory beef and smoky turkey bacon to the aromatic spices and that unforgettable touch of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, these components work together to make the dish uniquely unforgettable.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides the hearty, meaty foundation that’s perfect for chili.
- 1/2 cup turkey bacon, cut into pieces: Adds a smoky depth and crispy texture that complements the beef.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Delivers aromatic punch and savory warmth.
- 1 whole onion, diced: Enhances flavor complexity and adds a subtle sweetness.
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes: The base of the chili’s rich, tangy sauce.
- 15.5 ounces chili beans: Brings heartiness and a satisfying bite to every spoonful.
- 1 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, chopped: The secret ingredient that melts into the chili, adding creamy peanut butter and chocolate notes.
- 2 teaspoons chipotle chili powder: Provides smoky heat that lingers pleasantly.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: The classic chili spice that layers in warmth and earthiness.
- 2 tablespoons Better than Bouillon, Beef Flavored: Concentrates savory beef flavor for maximum richness.
- 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili Recipe
Step 1: Cook Turkey Bacon and Ground Beef
Start by warming your Dutch oven over medium heat and cooking the turkey bacon until it’s halfway done. This lets it release smoky fat and flavor without becoming too crispy. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks so it browns evenly and develops that beautiful savory crust.
Step 2: Add Onion, Garlic, and Half the Spices
Once the meat is partially cooked, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic to soften and infuse their aromatic goodness. Sprinkle in half the chipotle and chili powders along with your Better than Bouillon paste. Stir everything together well and cook until the beef is fully browned, forming a fragrant, rich foundation for your chili.
Step 3: Mix in Tomatoes, Beans, and Salt
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chili beans, then add the salt. Give it a good stir so everything melds together. The tomatoes bring a vibrant red color and a balance of acidity that brightens the deep, savory notes from the meat and spices.
Step 4: Incorporate Chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup
This is the exciting part: gently stir in the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, allowing it to melt slowly into the chili. This unexpected addition enhances the richness with creamy peanut butter warmth and subtle chocolate undertones, making this chili truly one-of-a-kind.
Step 5: Simmer to Blend Flavors
Lower the heat and let your chili simmer on low for at least 30 minutes. This slow cooking lets all the flavors marry beautifully, thickening the sauce and deepening the complexity of the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili Recipe. Stir occasionally and enjoy the tempting aroma filling your kitchen.
How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your chili by adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to provide cooling creaminess. Freshly chopped green onions or cilantro add a pop of color and brightness, while shredded cheddar cheese brings another layer of melty indulgence that complements the peanut butter and chocolate notes perfectly.
Side Dishes
Serve this chili with classic cornbread or crunchy tortilla chips for dipping. A simple, crisp green salad can balance the richness, and a side of pickled jalapeños can add a zesty kick. These sides make your meal feel complete and satisfying without overshadowing the unique flavors of this Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the chili in mini bread bowls for an edible vessel that’s as delicious as it is clever. Or top individual servings with crushed Reese’s candy and chopped peanuts to double down on the peanut butter vibe. You could even offer a “build your own chili bar,” inviting friends to add toppings and customize their bowls for a memorable gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your chili cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it great for easy, flavorful meals throughout the week.
Freezing
This chili freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, removing excess air. Frozen chili maintains its excellent flavor and texture for up to 3 months — perfect for busy days when you crave something comforting but quick.
Reheating
Reheat your chili gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results. You can also warm it in the microwave, covering it slightly to keep moisture in and stirring midway to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chocolate instead of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup?
Absolutely! While the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup adds a perfect balance of peanut butter and chocolate, you can experiment with chopped peanut butter chips or milk chocolate bars. Just remember the peanut butter component is key to get the signature flavor.
Is turkey bacon necessary, or can I substitute with regular bacon?
You can definitely swap turkey bacon for regular pork bacon if you prefer. The smoky flavor works well either way, though turkey bacon tends to keep the chili a bit lighter.
Can I make this chili vegetarian or vegan?
This particular recipe relies on beef and bacon for rich umami flavors, but you can create a plant-based version using hearty beans, lentils, and smoked paprika in place of meat and bouillon. For the peanut butter and chocolate elements, vegan Reese’s alternatives or natural peanut butter and dairy-free chocolate can be used.
How spicy is this chili?
The chipotle and chili powders add a pleasant warmth without overwhelming heat. If you prefer it milder, reduce the chili powders slightly. For extra heat, feel free to add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
Why does the recipe use Better than Bouillon instead of regular broth?
Better than Bouillon is concentrated and imparts a deep, rich beef flavor that intensifies the chili. It’s a convenient way to boost umami without adding too much liquid that might thin out the chili.
Final Thoughts
If you love chili and enjoy a fun flavor twist, the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili Recipe is a must-try. It’s comforting, inventive, and sure to surprise your family and friends in the best possible way. Give it a go, and get ready for the chorus of “Wow, what is this?!” around your dinner table.
Print
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A uniquely flavorful chili recipe combining traditional spicy elements with a surprising twist of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup for a rich, savory-sweet balance. Perfect for adventurous eaters looking to elevate classic chili with a creamy peanut butter and chocolate undertone.
Ingredients
Meat and Protein
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup turkey bacon, cut into pieces
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 whole onion, diced
Canned Goods
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 15.5 ounces chili beans
Spices and Flavorings
- 2 teaspoons Chipotle chili powder
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 2 tablespoons Better than Bouillon, Beef Flavored
- 2 teaspoons salt
Special Ingredient
- 1 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Turkey Bacon and Ground Beef: In a Dutch oven, cook the turkey bacon over medium heat until it is halfway done. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Add Aromatics and Seasonings: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic along with half of the chili powder, chipotle chili powder, and Better than Bouillon. Continue cooking until the meat is fully browned and the onions are softened.
- Add Tomatoes and Beans: Mix in the crushed tomatoes and chili beans, then add salt. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Incorporate Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup: Add the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup to the pot and allow it to melt and blend into the chili, giving it a creamy and slightly sweet flavor.
- Simmer to Blend Flavors: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the chili for at least 30 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together before serving.
Notes
- The peanut butter cup adds a unique richness and sweetness to the chili; adjust quantity based on your preference.
- Use a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning and allow even cooking.
- Simmering time can be extended for a deeper flavor.
- For a spicier chili, increase the chipotle chili powder slightly.
- Serve with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions for added texture and flavor.
