Introduction
Do you love the warm and hearty chili served at Wendy’s? You’re not alone! Wendy’s Chili is one of their most popular menu items. It’s thick, full of flavor, and packed with ground beef, beans, and spices. But what if you could make the same chili at home? Well, good news—you can! This Copycat Wendy’s Chili Recipe tastes just like the real thing, and the best part is, it’s easy to make.
With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can enjoy this tasty chili whenever you want—without having to visit the drive-thru. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a game night, or just craving a warm bowl of comfort food, this recipe is perfect. Let’s dive into the ingredients first.
Ingredients – Copycat Wendy’s Chili
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this copycat chili at home:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 can (29 oz) kidney beans (with liquid)
- 1 can (29 oz) pinto beans (with liquid)
- 1 can (29 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 packet chili seasoning mix (or make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 1/2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 2 cups water
Step-by-Step Process – Copycat Wendy’s Chili
Here’s how to make this chili, step by step. It’s really simple, even if you’re new to cooking!
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it turns brown. Make sure to break it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain the extra fat.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Now add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and celery to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until the veggies are soft.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Beans
Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (both plain and with green chilies), kidney beans, and pinto beans—don’t drain the beans, the liquid adds flavor!
Step 4: Season It Up
Add the chili seasoning packet (or your homemade mix), ground cumin, black pepper, salt, and sugar. Stir everything together well.
Step 5: Add Water and Simmer
Add the 2 cups of water to the pot. Stir again, then bring the chili to a boil. Once it starts to bubble, turn the heat down to low and cover the pot with a lid.
Step 6: Let It Cook Low and Slow
Let the chili simmer for at least 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring every now and then. The longer it cooks, the better it tastes!
Step 7: Ready to Serve
Once the chili has thickened and smells amazing, it’s ready to eat! You can serve it with shredded cheese, crackers, or even over rice if you like.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 7 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Total Fat | 9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 45 mg |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes! If you want a lighter version, ground turkey or chicken works great. Just be sure to add a little extra seasoning since turkey is milder in taste.
Q2: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Just brown the meat first, then add all ingredients into your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Q3: How long does it last in the fridge?
This chili can last up to 4–5 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. It also tastes even better the next day!
Q4: Can I freeze this chili?
Yes! Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Q5: What toppings go well with this chili?
Try shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, jalapeños, tortilla chips, or cornbread on the side.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it—your very own Copycat Wendy’s Chili made right in your kitchen. It’s easy, full of flavor, and perfect for a cozy night in. Whether you’re making it for dinner, a party, or just meal-prepping for the week, this chili never disappoints.
The best part? You know exactly what goes into it, and you can tweak it however you like—make it spicier, add more veggies, or turn it into a vegetarian chili. Once you try this recipe, you might never go back to the drive-thru again. So grab a big bowl, your favorite toppings, and enjoy every spoonful!
