This Copycat Wendy’s Chili is warm, hearty, and packed with flavor! Made with ground beef, beans, and plenty of spices, it’s a comforting meal for any day.
You can whip it up in no time, and it’s perfect for chilly nights. I like to top mine with cheese and crackers—it adds a yummy crunch! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef adds great flavor without too much grease. For a healthier option, try ground turkey or chicken. You can also use plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a vegetarian version.
Beans: Kidney and pinto beans create a nice texture and protein boost. If you don’t have these, black beans or cannellini beans can work well. Make sure to drain and rinse them to reduce sodium.
Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes and tomato sauce bring moisture and flavor. If you prefer fresh tomatoes, use about 2 cups chopped ripe tomatoes. You can also use crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture.
Spices: Chili powder is essential for that deep flavor. If you like it spicy, increase the crushed red pepper flakes. Smoked paprika can add an extra layer of depth if you have it!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Chili?
To maximize flavor, focus on a few key techniques. Browning the meat thoroughly enhances the taste, so be patient. When you add the spices, cooking them briefly before adding other ingredients will activate their flavors.
- Start by browning the meat until it’s fully cooked, then drain the fat.
- Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft to build a flavor base.
- Don’t rush the simmering phase—let it cook for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld.
For an even richer flavor, try letting it sit for a few hours or overnight in the fridge. Chili often tastes even better the next day!
How to Make Copycat Wendy’s Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Copycat Wendy’s Chili takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. In total, you can have a warm, delicious meal ready in 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks until it’s fully browned. If there’s a lot of fat, you can drain some off to make it leaner.
2. Add Onion and Garlic:
Next, add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir them together with the beef and cook for about 3-5 minutes. You want the onions to become soft and translucent, which will help build flavor.
3. Toast the Spices:
Now it’s time to add the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for about a minute. This will help to release the flavors of the spices.
4. Combine Beans and Tomatoes:
Add in the rinsed kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth to the pot. Stir everything well to combine, making sure all ingredients are mixed evenly.
5. Let it Simmer:
Bring your chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
6. Adjust the Seasoning:
After simmering, taste your chili and adjust any seasonings if needed. If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer for a bit longer without the lid to let some liquid evaporate.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out your delicious chili while it’s hot! It’s great topped with shredded cheddar cheese and served with crackers or cornbread on the side for a cozy meal.
Enjoy your homemade Copycat Wendy’s Chili that’s warm, hearty, and perfect for sharing! 🥘
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. It will still provide delicious flavor, just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it’s fully cooked through.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat or additional beans like black beans and lentils. Just be sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for added flavor!
How Long Does Leftover Chili Last?
Leftover chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it in portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Definitely! You can add more or less chili powder and crushed red pepper flakes to suit your taste. For a milder chili, consider omitting the red pepper flakes altogether or using a milder chili powder.
