Here’s a copycat “Wendy’s Chili” recipe so you can save it and make it at home anytime.
🍲 Wendy’s Chili (Copycat Recipe)
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (500 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14–15 oz) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (14–15 oz) pinto beans, drained
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (14–15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1–2 cups water or beef broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: chili flakes for extra heat
Instructions:
- Brown the beef in a large pot. Break it into small crumbles (this is key for the Wendy’s texture). Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until softened.
- Stir in all tomatoes, beans, tomato sauce, and water/broth.
- Add spices and mix well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 1.5–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Tips (for “real” Wendy’s style):
- Simmer longer for deeper flavor
- Don’t over-mash the beans—just lightly break some for thickness
- It tastes even better the next day
🍔 This recipe is inspired by the famous chili from Wendy’s, known for its hearty, slightly spicy, beefy flavor.
If you want, I can also make a 3-ingredient version or a slow cooker version for you.
