Here’s a homemade copycat version of Wendy’s Chili so you can enjoy that classic fast‑food favorite right at home 🍲 — rich, hearty, and packed with beans, beef, and savory tomato flavor.
🍲 Wendy’s Chili (Copycat Recipe)
🛒 Ingredients (Makes ~8–10 servings)
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2 lb ground beef
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2–3 stalks celery, diced
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1 green bell pepper, diced
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1 medium onion, diced
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3 (14 oz) cans stewed tomatoes (roughly chopped)
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1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like RO*TEL)
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1 (14 oz) can tomato sauce
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1 cup water (or beef broth)
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1 (14 oz) can kidney beans, undrained
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1 (14 oz) can pinto beans, undrained
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2 packets mild chili seasoning (or about 2–3 tbsp chili powder)
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Salt & black pepper to taste
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1 tbsp white vinegar (optional — brightens flavor)
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Toppings: shredded cheddar, oyster crackers, green onions (optional)
👨🍳 How to Make It
1️⃣ Brown the Beef
In a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium‑high heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Break it into small pieces with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
2️⃣ Add Veggies
Add the diced onion, celery, and green bell pepper. Sauté 4–5 minutes until softened.
3️⃣ Add Tomato Base & Water
Pour in the stewed tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, and water (or broth). Stir to combine.
4️⃣ Season
Stir in the chili seasoning (or chili powder), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5️⃣ Add Beans & Simmer
Mix in the undrained kidney and pinto beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer about 1 hour, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks.
6️⃣ Finish
Stir in a splash of white vinegar at the end (optional); it adds brightness to the rich tomato‑meat flavor.
🍽️ Serve With
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Shredded cheddar cheese on top
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Oyster crackers for crunch
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Diced green onions
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A dollop of sour cream
Classic Wendy’s chili isn’t super thick — it’s more like a hearty stew with lots of flavorful meat and bean goodness.
💡 Tips
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Letting it simmer longer (up to 90 minutes) deepens the flavor.
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You can adjust heat by adding jalapeños or extra chili powder.
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Freeze leftovers in portions — this chili reheats beautifully.
Would you like a slow cooker / Instant Pot version of this chili too? (It’s great for busy days!)