Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili is a delightful twist on traditional chili, blending rich flavors of ground beef and smoked spices with a surprising sweet note from Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, this unique dish will impress family and friends alike. It’s hearty, satisfying, and just the right amount of indulgent, making it a must-try for chili lovers looking for something different.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Base
- For Seasoning
- For the Tomatoes and Beans
- Special Ingredient
- How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili
- Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon
- Step 2: Add Vegetables
- Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes and Beans
- Step 4: Add the Secret Ingredient
- Step 5: Simmer
- How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili
- Top with Fresh Ingredients
- Accompany with Crunchy Sides
- Create a Chili Bar
- How to Perfect Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili
- Best Side Dishes for Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili
- Reheating Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili?
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
- How spicy is Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili?
- Can I customize this recipe?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of chocolate and chili creates a remarkable taste experience that’s both savory and sweet.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from ground beef and beans, this chili will keep you full and satisfied.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious dish without any hassle.
- Great for Meal Prep: This recipe makes a large batch, perfect for leftovers or freezing for later enjoyment.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, in a bowl with toppings, or as a filling for tacos.
Tools and Preparation
To make Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: Ideal for even cooking and simmering the chili to develop deep flavors.
- Sharp knife: Ensures safe and precise chopping of vegetables like onions and garlic.
- Measuring spoons: Helps achieve accurate measurements of spices for consistent flavor.
- Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili combines turkey bacon and ground beef with smoked chili seasonings, beans, and the secret Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup.
For the 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 Seasoning
- 2 teaspoons Chipotle chili powder
- 1 tablespoon Chili powder
- 2 tablespoons Better than Bouillon, Beef Flavored
For the Tomatoes 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
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 over medium heat. When the turkey bacon is halfway cooked, add the ground beef. Break apart the meat to start cooking evenly.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
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 along with the Better than Bouillon. Continue cooking until all meat is fully cooked through.
Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes and Beans
Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with fire-roasted tomatoes into the meat mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients, then add salt and chili beans.
Step 4: Add the Secret Ingredient
Chop up the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup into small pieces and mix it into the chili. Stir well until it melts completely into the dish.
Step 5: Simmer
Let your chili simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes or longer if time allows. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully together before serving.
This delightful Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili is sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili
Serving Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili is a delightful experience that combines sweet and savory flavors. Here are some creative ways to present this unique dish.
Top with Fresh Ingredients
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess that balances the chili’s heat.
- Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle these for a fresh, crisp texture and vibrant color.
- Shredded Cheese: Melted cheese on top provides a rich flavor that complements the chocolate notes.
Accompany with Crunchy Sides
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with chili, soaking up its delicious flavors.
- Tortilla Chips: Serve tortilla chips on the side for a crunchy contrast and fun dipping option.
Create a Chili Bar
- Toppings Galore: Set up a toppings bar with various ingredients like jalapeños, cilantro, and avocado for guests to customize their bowls.
- Sides of Rice: Offer white or brown rice for those who prefer a heartier meal.
How to Perfect Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili
To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili, follow these helpful tips.
- Ensure Even Cooking: Cook the turkey bacon thoroughly before adding beef to enhance the overall flavor.
- Balance Spices: Adjust the chipotle and chili powder according to your heat preference; taste as you go!
- Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality canned tomatoes and fresh vegetables to elevate your chili’s taste.
- Simmer Longer for Flavor: Allowing the chili to simmer longer than 30 minutes can deepen its flavors significantly.
- Melt the Chocolate Well: Stir in the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup until fully melted for an even distribution of flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili
Pairing sides with your Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili can enhance your meal. Here are some great options.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up chili, garlic bread adds a flavorful twist.
- Simple Salad: A refreshing green salad balances out the richness of the chili with crisp vegetables.
- Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the soft texture of chili.
- Baked Potatoes: Top baked potatoes with chili for a filling and hearty option.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Classic grilled cheese pairs beautifully with chili, offering gooey goodness.
- Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a sweet complement that enhances the peanut butter cup flavor in the chili.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Using too much salt: Over-salting can overpower other flavors. Start with less and adjust as needed during cooking.
- Not browning the meat properly: Browning adds depth of flavor. Take your time to ensure the meat is well-cooked before adding other ingredients.
- Skipping the simmering step: Allowing the chili to simmer melds the flavors together. Don’t rush this process for the best taste.
- Ignoring ingredient freshness: Fresh ingredients enhance flavor. Use fresh garlic, onions, and spices for a more vibrant chili.
- Forgetting to stir: Occasionally stirring prevents sticking and ensures even cooking. Don’t let the chili sit without mixing!

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place chili in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Place chili in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili that may help you in your cooking journey.
What is Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili?
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili is a unique blend of savory flavors combined with a hint of sweetness from a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, creating an unexpected yet delicious dish.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works well as a substitute for beef, offering a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
How spicy is Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference by modifying the amount of chipotle chili powder used in the recipe.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap out beans based on what you have on hand.
Final Thoughts
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili is an exciting dish that marries savory and sweet flavors beautifully. Its versatility allows for endless customization based on personal taste preferences. Give this unique recipe a try; it’s sure to impress at any gathering!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Chili is a deliciously inventive dish that combines the heartiness of traditional chili with a surprising twist of sweetness. Ground beef and beans meld seamlessly with the rich flavors of smoked spices, while a chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup adds an unexpected layer of indulgence. Ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in, this chili promises to be a conversation starter and a family favorite. Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep, it’s a unique recipe that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary experience.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup turkey bacon, cut into pieces
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 whole onion, diced
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 15.5 ounces chili beans
- 1 Reese's Peanut Butter Cup, chopped
- 2 teaspoons Chipotle chili powder
- 1 tablespoon Chili powder
- 2 tablespoons Better than Bouillon, Beef Flavored
- 2 teaspoons salt
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven, cook turkey bacon over medium heat until halfway done. Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Stir in diced onion and minced garlic along with half the spices and Better than Bouillon. Cook until meat is fully browned.
- Mix in crushed tomatoes and chili beans, then add salt. Stir well to combine.
- Incorporate chopped Reese's Peanut Butter Cup and allow it to melt into the chili.
- Simmer on low heat for at least 30 minutes to blend flavors before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg





