Wendy’s Chili

Here’s a copycat recipe for Wendy’s Chili, which is known for its hearty texture, mild spice, and rich tomato base. It’s a great make-ahead dish that gets better after a day in the fridge.

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🍲 Wendy’s Chili (Copycat Recipe)

🕒 Cook Time:

• Prep: 15 minutes

• Cook: 1–1.5 hours

• Serves: 6–8

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🔪 Ingredients:

• 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 preferred)

• 1 can (29 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 can (29 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (29 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed

• 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 stalks celery, chopped

• 1 packet (1.25 oz) chili seasoning (or use homemade mix – see below)

• 1 tbsp ground cumin

• 1½ tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for spice)

• 1 cup water

• 1 tbsp white vinegar

• 1 tsp sugar

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🍳 Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef:

   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.

2. Sauté Veggies:

   • Add chopped onion, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.

3. Add Remaining Ingredients:

   • Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beans, and all seasonings.

   • Add water, vinegar, and sugar. Mix well.

4. Simmer:

   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

   • The chili should reduce slightly and thicken.

5. Taste & Adjust:

   • Adjust salt, spice, or sugar to balance flavor.

6. Serve:

   • Top with shredded cheddar, diced onions, or serve with crackers (like Wendy’s does!).

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🌶️ Homemade Chili Seasoning (optional):

If you don’t have a store-bought chili packet, use this instead:

• 1 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp oregano

• ¼ tsp cayenne (optional)