Print

Delicious Copycat Wendy’s Chili

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This hearty copycat Wendy’s chili recipe combines tender ground beef, savory beans, and a rich tomato base seasoned to perfection. Perfect for cozy dinners, game days, or meal prep, this homemade chili delivers the same comforting flavors as the fast-food favorite while being freezer-friendly and easy to make on the stovetop or in a slow cooker.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs ground beef, browned
  • 1 quart tomato juice
  • 1 can (29 oz) tomato purée
  • 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained
  • 1½ cups chopped onion
  • ½ cup diced celery
  • ¼ cup diced green bell pepper
  • ¼ cup chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp sugar
  • 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat.
  2. Transfer beef to a 6-quart pot. Add tomato juice, tomato purée, beans, onion, celery, bell pepper, and all seasonings. Stir well.
  3. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Simmer uncovered for 1–1½ hours, stirring every 15 minutes.
  4. For a slow cooker version, transfer all ingredients after browning the beef and cook on low for 3–4 hours.

Notes

  • For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or a turkey-beef blend.
  • For extra sweetness and texture, add 1 cup of corn or diced carrots.
  • Increase cayenne or add hot sauce for spicier chili.
  • This chili tastes even better the next day as flavors develop.
  • Store in the fridge up to 5 days or freeze up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/delicious-copycat-wendys-chili/