This Copycat Wendy’s Chili is hearty and full of flavor, made with ground beef, beans, and a mix of spices. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
I love making this chili on chilly days. It’s easy to whip up and makes my house smell delicious. Plus, it’s perfect for leftovers—if there are any! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This gives the chili its hearty base. If you’re looking to lighten it up, try ground turkey or even a plant-based ground meat substitute. I love using lean ground beef to keep the chili flavorful without being overly greasy.
Beans: Kidney beans and pinto beans are classics for chili. If you’re not a fan, black beans or even chickpeas can be used instead. I often mix different beans for variety, and it adds great texture!
Bell Pepper: Green bell pepper adds a nice crunch and sweetness. Red or yellow bell peppers can be good substitutions for a sweeter flavor. I sometimes throw in a jalapeño for an extra kick!
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are essential for flavor. If you’re out of chili powder, a mix of paprika and cayenne can work. I also like to add some smoked paprika for a little smokiness.
Sour Cream and Cheese: These are perfect toppings! Greek yogurt is a healthier swap for sour cream. For cheese, I prefer sharp cheddar, but pepper jack can add a nice kick.
How Do You Make Sure the Chili Has Rich Flavor?
A big part of making great chili is in the layering of flavors. Start by properly browning the beef to get some nice caramelization going—it adds depth! Cooking the onions and peppers until they’re soft helps release their natural sweetness.
- Cook the spices briefly with the meat and veggies—this unlocks their flavors. Don’t skip this step!
- Let the chili simmer low and slow. If you have time, let it simmer for an hour or more. This extra time lets all the flavors meld beautifully.
- Taste and adjust! Before serving, check if it needs more salt or spices.
Remember, chili often tastes even better the next day, so consider making it ahead!
How to Make Copycat Wendy’s Chili?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This copycat Wendy’s chili takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes to simmer, so you can have this delicious meal on the table in about 40 minutes! If you let it simmer longer, up to 1-2 hours, the flavors will deepen and it’ll taste even better!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the ground beef over medium heat. Cook it until it’s fully browned, using a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep it from being oily.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender. This step makes everything aromatic and delicious!
3. Add the Spices:
Now, it’s time for flavor! Stir in the chili powder, cumin, sugar, black pepper, salt, and optional cayenne pepper. Cook everything together for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices, enhancing their flavors.
4. Combine the Other Ingredients:
Pour in the kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth (or water). Give everything a good stir to combine the ingredients.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. If you have extra time, let it simmer for 1-2 hours for richer flavors. Just remember to stir occasionally!
6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Before serving, taste your chili! If it needs more salt or spice, don’t hesitate to adjust it to your liking.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the chili into bowls. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess. Enjoy your warm, comforting copycat Wendy’s chili—perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that will still provide good flavor. Just be sure to cook it until it’s fully browned, similar to the beef.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
You can easily make this chili vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or just adding more beans and vegetables. Try adding diced zucchini or mushrooms for additional texture!
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes, you can freeze leftover chili! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with Chili?
Chili pairs well with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for dipping. A simple green salad or coleslaw also complements the dish nicely. Feel free to get creative with your sides!
