Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili is a delightful twist on traditional chili, perfect for those who love bold flavors and unique combinations. This dish pairs savory turkey bacon and ground beef with smoked chili seasonings, beans, and the secret ingredient: a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup. It’s suitable for family gatherings, game days, or cozy nights in. The addition of chocolate adds a rich depth that will surprise and delight your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of savory and sweet makes this chili stand out from traditional recipes.
  • Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: This chili stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it great for future meals.
  • Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a fun dish that sparks conversation and is sure to impress friends and family at any gathering.
  • Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Dutch oven
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

  • Dutch oven: Ideal for slow-cooking and simmering, ensuring even heat distribution for perfect results.
  • Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and safe.
  • Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables, keeping your kitchen organized.
  • Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Meat Base

  • 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 Seasoning

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

For Sauces and Beans

  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
  • 14.5 ounces fire-roasted tomatoes
  • 15.5 ounces chili beans
  • 2 teaspoons salt

Special 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 the Turkey Bacon

Begin cooking the cut turkey bacon in the bottom of a Dutch oven over medium heat. When the turkey bacon is halfway cooked, add both types of ground beef. Break apart the meat as it begins to cook.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Seasoning

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the meat mixture. Stir well to combine. Sprinkle in half of the chili powder and chipotle powder. Add the Better than Bouillon to enhance flavor. Continue cooking until all meat is fully browned.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes and Beans

Pour in both crushed tomatoes and fire-roasted tomatoes into the meat mixture. Stir gently while incorporating salt and chili beans into the pot.

Step 4: Mix in the Secret Ingredient

Unwrap the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup and add it directly into the simmering chili. Stir until it completely melts into the mix.

Step 5: Let It Simmer

Allow your chili to simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes. This helps all flavors meld beautifully together.

With these steps, you’re on your way to enjoying an extraordinary bowl of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili!

How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili

Serving Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili can elevate your meal experience. This unique dish pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and make it a memorable feast.

With Cornbread

  • Sweet Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread complements the spiciness of the chili perfectly.
  • Savory Jalapeño Cornbread: A spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the rich peanut butter flavor.

Over Rice

  • White Rice: A neutral base that allows the chili’s bold flavors to shine through.
  • Brown Rice: Adds a hearty texture and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall dish.

With Toppings

  • Sour Cream: Provides a cooling effect that balances the heat from the chili.
  • Chopped Green Onions: Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color to your bowl.
  • Shredded Cheese: Melts into the chili for added creaminess and savory flavor.

In a Bread Bowl

  • Crusty Bread Bowl: Perfect for serving, this adds an extra layer of flavor as you enjoy both the chili and the bread.

How to Perfect Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili

To ensure your Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili is flavorful and satisfying, consider these essential tips.

  • Bold spices: Adjust the chipotle and chili powder to match your heat preference. This will enhance the overall depth of flavor.
  • Simmer longer: Letting the chili simmer for more than 30 minutes allows all ingredients to meld together beautifully.
  • Fresh ingredients: Use fresh herbs and onions for a more vibrant taste. Fresh veggies always elevate any dish.
  • Peanut butter balance: Make sure to use just one Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup; too much can overwhelm the other flavors.
  • Experiment with beans: Try different types of beans like black beans or kidney beans for variety in texture and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili

Pairing side dishes with your Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili can enhance its appeal. Here are some delicious options that complement this unique recipe well.

  1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside and soft inside, this is perfect for scooping up chili.
  2. Tortilla Chips: Great for dipping or topping; their salty crunch adds a wonderful texture contrast.
  3. Mexican Street Corn Salad: The sweetness of corn combined with lime and cheese brightens up each bite.
  4. Coleslaw: A fresh, crunchy side that cools down the palate while adding brightness to your meal.
  5. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy potatoes serve as a hearty base for heaping servings of chili.
  6. Salad with Avocado Dressing: A light salad dressed in creamy avocado provides freshness alongside richness from the chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

  • Overcooking the Meat: If you cook the meat too long, it can become tough. Make sure to monitor the cooking time and stop when it’s fully browned but still tender.
  • Ignoring Spice Balance: Adding too much chili powder can overpower the dish. Start with less and gradually add more to match your taste preference.
  • Forgetting the Peanut Butter Cup: The secret ingredient is essential for flavor depth. Don’t skip it; make sure to stir it in until fully melted.
  • Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients can impact taste negatively. Opt for fresh produce and quality meats for a richer chili experience.
  • Neglecting Simmer Time: Rushing the simmering process means missing out on flavor development. Allow at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Let Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili

  • Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
  • Leave some space at the top of containers as the chili will expand when frozen.

Reheating Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes.
  • Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between intervals.
  • Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili unique?

The combination of savory turkey bacon and ground beef with sweet peanut butter adds an unexpected twist that tantalizes the taste buds.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or sausage if you prefer a different meat option while still enjoying the delicious flavors of this chili.

How spicy is Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili?

The spiciness mainly comes from chipotle chili powder. Adjust the amount according to your heat tolerance or omit it entirely for a milder version.

Can I prepare this chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chili can be made ahead of time and actually tastes better after sitting overnight as flavors develop even more.

What sides pair well with Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili?

Serve with cornbread, rice, or a simple salad to balance out the rich flavors of this unique chili dish.

Final Thoughts

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili is not just another bowl of chili; it’s a delightful blend of flavors that surprises and satisfies. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and make it your own!

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Reese's Peanut Butter Cup Chili

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili


  • Author: Sofia
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Description

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili is a daring and delicious take on classic chili, blending savory ingredients with a hint of sweetness that will leave your taste buds dancing. This unique dish features a hearty mix of turkey bacon, ground beef, and beans, all simmered in a rich tomato base infused with smoked chili seasonings and the secret ingredient: a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, this chili not only surprises with its flavor but also offers an unforgettable culinary experience. Serve it with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal that delights family and friends alike.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1/2 pound turkey bacon
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 4 cloves garlic
  • 1 onion
  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
  • 14.5 ounces fire-roasted tomatoes
  • 15.5 ounces chili beans
  • 1 Reese's Peanut Butter Cup
  • 2 teaspoons Chipotle chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon Chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons Better than Bouillon

Instructions

  1. In a Dutch oven over medium heat, cook turkey bacon until halfway done. Add ground beef and brown.
  2. Stir in minced garlic and diced onion; add spices and Better than Bouillon for flavor.
  3. Mix in crushed and fire-roasted tomatoes along with chili beans and salt.
  4. Unwrap the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup and stir into the pot until melted.
  5. Allow to simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes to blend flavors.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Adjust spice levels by modifying the amount of chipotle chili powder. Simmer longer for enhanced flavor development; overnight chilling improves taste even more. Feel free to customize toppings like sour cream or green onions to suit your preference.

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