Wendy’s Style Chili: A Delicious Copycat Recipe

Ingredients: A Hearty Mix

Here’s what you’ll need to make this copycat Wendy’s chili:

• Ground Beef: 1 lb of lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) for a hearty, meaty base.
• Onion: 1 large onion, diced, for flavor.
• Bell Pepper: 1 green bell pepper, diced, for sweetness and texture.
• Celery: 2 stalks of celery, diced, for added crunch.
• Tomato Sauce: 1 (15-ounce) can of tomato sauce forms the base of the chili.
• Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5-ounce) can of diced tomatoes adds texture and fresh tomato flavor.
• Kidney Beans: 1 (15-ounce) can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed, for protein and texture.
• Pinto Beans: 1 (15-ounce) can of pinto beans, drained and rinsed, for a creamy texture.
• Chili Powder: 2 tablespoons of chili powder for a flavorful spice.
• Ground Cumin: 1 tablespoon for earthy warmth.
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon for extra depth of flavor.
• Sugar: 1 tablespoon to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.
• Water: 1 1/2 cups of water to achieve the right consistency.
• Optional Garnishes: Shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or chopped cilantro.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Wendy’s Chili

1. Cook the Ground Beef:

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pot.

1. Sauté the Vegetables:

• Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pot with the ground beef. Sauté the vegetables for 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften.

1. Add the Tomatoes and Beans:

• Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and pinto beans. Mix everything together until well combined.

1. Season the Chili:

• Add the chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the water and stir everything together.

1. Simmer the Chili:

• Bring the chili to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the chili cook for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will develop.

1. Adjust Seasoning:

• Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or chili powder, depending on your preference.

1. Serve:

• Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or cilantro.

Variations and Tips

• Make It Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicier kick.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, zucchini, or carrots for more texture and nutrition.
• Slow Cooker Version: You can make this chili in a slow cooker by browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables first, then adding everything to the slow cooker and cooking on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Serving Suggestions

• Chili Toppings: Serve with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
• On the Side: Pair this chili with cornbread, tortilla chips, or crackers.
• Over Rice or Potatoes: Serve the chili over rice or a baked potato for a heartier meal.

Conclusion: A Cozy and Hearty Meal

This copycat Wendy’s Chili recipe brings all the familiar flavors you love right to your table. With its blend of savory ground beef, beans, and spices, this chili is perfect for any day of the week. Whether you serve it with classic toppings or enjoy it on its own, this hearty dish is sure to be a hit with everyone!