Name: Wendy’s Chili Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 pounds ground beef; 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice); 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce; 1 cup water; 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained; 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon sugar; ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Love Wendy’s chili? Now you can make a comforting, hearty bowl at home with this copycat recipe that nails the taste and texture. It’s packed with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices—perfect for meal prep, game days, or cozy dinners. Easy to make, freezer-friendly, and full of rich, slow-simmered flavor.

Ingredients List

– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 pounds ground beef
– 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
– 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
– 1 cup water
– 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained
– 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon sugar
– ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, celery, green pepper, and garlic until softened—about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and water. Mix well.

Step 4: Add beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, sugar, and cayenne. Stir to combine.

Step 5: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings

Makes 8–10 servings

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

Calories: 290
Carbs: 22g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 14g

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave.

Pairings/Suggestions

Serve with cornbread, crackers, or over baked potatoes. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or green onions.

Seasonal Relevance

Ideal for fall and winter when comfort food is in demand. Great for tailgates and weeknight dinners.

Conclusion

This Wendy’s chili copycat recipe delivers all the flavors of your favorite fast-food version with homemade freshness. It’s hearty, satisfying, and simple enough for any night of the week. Keep it in rotation for cozy meals that everyone will love!