Wendy’s Copycat Chili

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty bowl of chili, especially when it tastes just like the one from Wendy’s. This copycat recipe brings the same rich flavors of ground beef, tender beans, and that iconic spice blend straight into your kitchen. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic taste or just need an easy one-pot meal for a busy weeknight, this chili is the perfect go-to.

Wendy’s chili has built a loyal following for good reason. It’s thick, savory, and packed with just the right balance of meat, veggies, and spice. With this homemade version, you get to enjoy all of that but with fresher ingredients and the freedom to tweak it to your preference. Plus, it makes a big batch, ideal for feeding a crowd or storing for leftovers.

Why You’ll Love This Wendy’s Copycat Chili

You don’t have to go through the drive-thru to enjoy your favorite chili. This recipe delivers the same flavor with wholesome pantry staples. It’s also budget-friendly, customizable, and can simmer away while you handle other things. It’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

What Makes Wendy’s Chili So Good?

Wendy’s chili stands out for its chunky texture, mild heat, and deep flavor. The secret lies in its slow-simmered beef and the combination of kidney and pinto beans, plus a little sweetness from tomato sauce and a touch of sugar. For a truly authentic taste, choose ground beef with just enough fat for flavor without greasiness.

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Ingredients for the Wendy’s Copycat Chili

What makes this chili so satisfying is how each ingredient plays its part to build a layered, slow-cooked flavor. From ground beef to chili powder, everything has a role.

• Ground beef
• Onion
• Celery
• Green bell pepper
• Garlic
• Tomato sauce
• Diced tomatoes with green chilies
• Stewed tomatoes
• Water
• Pinto beans
• Kidney beans
• Chili powder
• Ground cumin
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Sugar
• Oregano
• Paprika

Each of these ingredients builds the savory, slightly smoky, and deeply comforting base that sets this chili apart. The beans add creaminess and fiber, while the tomatoes offer acidity and sweetness to balance the spices.

How To Make the Wendy’s Copycat Chili

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Break it into crumbles as it cooks, then drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add chopped onion, celery, and green bell pepper to the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Beans

Stir in tomato sauce, stewed tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and water. Drain and rinse the pinto and kidney beans and add them to the pot.

Step 4: Season Generously

Mix in chili powder, ground cumin, salt, pepper, sugar, oregano, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a low simmer.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Let the chili simmer uncovered for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavor.

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Serving and Storing This Chili

This Wendy’s copycat chili is a meal in itself but also works great as part of a bigger spread. It feeds about 6 to 8 people, making it ideal for family dinners or Sunday football games. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave and it tastes just as amazing the next day. It’s also fantastic over baked potatoes or even served with rice.

What to Serve With Wendy’s Chili?

Classic Cornbread

Soft and buttery cornbread makes the perfect chili companion.

Cheesy Garlic Bread

This adds a crispy, cheesy bite to soak up every drop of chili.

Side Salad

A light green salad with ranch or vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the chili.

Baked Potatoes

Pour the chili right on top of a baked potato for a loaded dinner.

Tortilla Chips

Use them for scooping or as a crunchy garnish.

Rice

A fluffy rice base turns this chili into a Tex-Mex bowl.

Sour Cream and Shredded Cheese

Offer these toppings to make each bowl customizable.

Pickled Jalapeños

A tangy, spicy topping that boosts flavor and heat.

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Want More Hearty Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Wendy’s copycat chili, you’re going to want to try these cozy and satisfying meals too:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a creamy, cheesy pasta dish.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for a quick comfort fix.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce when you want something indulgent and filling.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for another one-pot winner.
• One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta if you love smoky and hearty pasta.

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Have you made this copycat chili? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Did you add extra heat or keep it mild? Let me know in the comments below.

Explore beautifully curated meal ideas and health-boosting recipes on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite family meal!

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