Wendy’s Inspired Beef Chili | YumAndJoy

Wendy’s Inspired Beef Chili

Recreate the classic Wendy’s chili with this simple and delicious recipe! A savory blend of ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices makes this hearty dish perfect for chilly nights, game days, or an easy weeknight meal. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and even better the next day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Tastes Just Like Wendy’s – Enjoy the beloved fast-food chili at home.
  • Hearty & Satisfying – Packed with protein and fiber for a filling meal.
  • Easy One-Pot Meal – Minimal cleanup and simple preparation.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day and freezes well.
  • Customizable Heat Level – Adjust the spice to suit your preference.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Ground beef
  • Onion, chopped
  • Green bell pepper, chopped
  • Celery, diced
  • Garlic, minced
  • Canned diced tomatoes
  • Tomato sauce
  • Tomato paste
  • Canned kidney beans, drained
  • Canned pinto beans, drained
  • Beef broth
  • Chili powder
  • Ground cumin
  • Paprika
  • Oregano
  • Salt and pepper
  • Cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Directions

  1. Cook the Beef – In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
  2. Sauté Vegetables – Add chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add Tomatoes & Beans – Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, kidney beans, and pinto beans.
  4. Season the Chili – Add beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
  5. Simmer – Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes (or up to 1 hour for deeper flavor). Stir occasionally.
  6. Adjust Seasoning & Serve – Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 6-8
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

  • Spicier Chili – Add extra cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
  • Thicker Chili – Reduce the broth or let it simmer longer.
  • Vegetarian Option – Swap beef for extra beans or a plant-based meat substitute.
  • Slow Cooker Method – Brown the beef and sauté vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
  • Instant Pot Version – Use the sauté function for browning, then pressure cook on high for 20 minutes with a quick release.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

Is this an exact Wendy’s chili copycat recipe?

It’s very close! The flavors and ingredients mimic Wendy’s chili, but you can adjust seasonings to your taste.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but you may need to add extra broth to get the right consistency.

What type of beans does Wendy’s use?

They use red kidney beans and pinto beans, which are included in this recipe.

How can I make this chili less spicy?

Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and use mild chili powder.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes! Chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

What can I serve with this chili?

It pairs well with cornbread, crackers, rice, or a side salad.

Can I add corn to this recipe?

Yes! Adding a cup of corn gives a slightly sweet contrast to the savory flavors.

What’s the best ground beef to use?

An 80/20 blend works well for flavor without too much grease.

How do I thicken my chili?

Let it simmer longer, mash some of the beans, or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a leaner but still delicious version.

Conclusion

This Wendy’s-inspired beef chili is a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to make and full of rich flavors. Whether you’re craving a warm bowl on a cold night or need a satisfying dish for meal prep, this chili is a winner. Try it today and enjoy a homemade version of the classic favorite!

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Wendy’s Inspired Beef Chili

Wendy’s Inspired Beef Chili


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  • Author: asma
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 68 servings 1x

Description

Recreate the classic Wendy’s chili at home with this easy, flavorful recipe! A hearty blend of ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices, this comforting dish is perfect for chilly nights.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (10 oz) can Rotel (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 3 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp oregano
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp white sugar

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef:
    • In a large Dutch oven or pot, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
    • Drain excess grease if necessary.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics:
    • Add onion, green bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  3. Build the Chili Base:
    • Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Rotel, tomato paste, and beef broth.
  4. Add Beans & Spices:
    • Mix in kidney beans, pinto beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and sugar.
  5. Simmer:
    • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Serve & Enjoy:
    • Serve hot with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or crackers!

Notes

  • For a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for the last 15 minutes.
  • Prefer a milder flavor? Reduce the chili powder and omit the cayenne.
  • Make it ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day—store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months!
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
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