This Copycat Wendy’s Chili is a hearty and filling dish that brings the warmth of the restaurant right into your kitchen! With ground beef, beans, and a mix of spices, it’s wonderfully tasty.
Perfect for chilly days, this chili is great with some cornbread on the side. I love making a big pot and enjoying it for lunch throughout the week—so cozy and comforting! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: You can use lean ground beef for this recipe, but feel free to substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option. Alternatively, plant-based ground meat works well for a vegetarian twist.
Beans: This recipe uses chili and kidney beans for texture and flavor. If you’re low on beans, you can replace one type with black beans or pinto beans. Canned beans make life easy, but you can also use dried beans—just soak and cook them beforehand!
Onion: A small onion adds essential flavor. If you don’t have it on hand, shallots or even garlic can enhance the taste. For an even quicker option, you might try onion powder.
Chili Powder: This is key for that deep chili flavor. If you prefer something less spicy, use mild chili powder or a mix of paprika and cumin instead.
How Do I Perfectly Brown Ground Beef?
Browning ground beef is essential for rich flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Adding a little oil can help if your pot isn’t non-stick.
- Add the ground beef in chunks, letting it sit for a minute before stirring. This helps develop a nice sear.
- Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it down as it cooks. Aim for evenly browned pieces without any pink.
- If there’s excess fat after cooking, drain it off before proceeding to add other ingredients!
With these tips, your ground beef will contribute wonderful depth to your chili!
How to Make Copycat Wendy’s Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chili:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 (15 oz) can chili beans, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, undrained
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Optional Garnishes:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Copycat Wendy’s Chili takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 45-50 minutes from start to finish, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Brown it until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink.
2. Sauté the Onion:
If there’s excess grease, drain it from the pot. Then add the finely chopped onion to the beef. Sauté together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent.
3. Add Beans and Tomatoes:
Stir in the chili beans, kidney beans, and diced tomatoes with their juices into the pot. Make sure everything is mixed together well.
4. Add Water and Seasonings:
Pour in the ½ cup of water and add the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until fully combined.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while the chili thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or spices depending on your preference.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Serve the chili hot in bowls. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions if you like. Enjoy this delicious comfort food with some crackers or cornbread!
Enjoy a hearty bowl of classic, comforting Copycat Wendy’s Chili! 🍲
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for beef in this recipe, making it a lighter option while still providing plenty of flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if using lean turkey to avoid it drying out.
How Can I Thicken the Chili Further?
If you prefer a thicker chili, you can let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer. Alternatively, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, then stir this mixture into the chili and cook for a few more minutes until thickened.
Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this chili vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and using more beans or lentils instead. You can also add in some diced vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container; it can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
