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Copycat Wendy’s Chili


  • Author: MIA MORTHEN
  • Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8-10 1x

Description

A hearty, beef-based chili inspired by Wendy’s famous recipe, featuring a rich blend of beans, vegetables, and warming spices.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds lean ground beef
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 green bell peppers, diced
  • 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained
  • 2 (15 oz) cans pinto beans, drained
  • 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 23 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 cups water

Instructions

  • Brown ground beef in a large pot over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces.
  • Drain excess fat and transfer meat to a bowl.
  • In the same pot, sauté onions, celery, and bell peppers until softened (about 5 minutes).
  • Return meat to pot and add remaining ingredients.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.

Notes

  • For authentic texture, break up the ground beef into very small pieces while cooking
  • Can be made spicier by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce
  • Garnish with cheese, sour cream, or diced onions if desired
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Protein: 23g