The Best Wendy’s Copycat Chili Recipe

With Wendy’s drive-thru available just about everywhere, you may be thinking, “Why do I need The Best Wendy’s Copycat Chili Recipe?” That’s a fair question, especially since we hear you can even purchase branded cans at certain local supermarkets. But sometimes it just feels good to have a pot of chili on the stove, filling your home with a spicy warm fragrance on a cold fall or winter day. And honestly, Wendy’s version has a pretty great flavor. So if you don’t have your own traditional recipe for the beloved, saucy bowl of beans and meat in a thick tomato broth, this just might become a go-to for future bubbling pots of chili in your kitchen.

Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian Friendly?

Thankfully, every ingredient in this recipe is vegetarian friendly except for the ground beef. You can simple remove this element to make a chili that’s available for everyone to try. But, you can also substitute the ground beef for another protein of your choice. Try this recipe with another type of bean, chickpeas, or even grilled tofu.

The Best Wendy’s Copycat Chili Recipe

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• Author: Star Laliberte

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Description

No need to spend another dollar at Wendy’s again!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lb ground beef
• 1 qt tomato juice
• 2 14.5 oz cans of stewed tomatoes with green chilies (do not drain – we used Petite Cut® Diced Tomatoes with Hatch Green Chilies)
• 15 oz can red kidney beans (do not drain)
• 15 oz can pinto beans (do not drain)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 1 small green pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 10 tbsp chili powder (you can use up to 1/4 cup if you prefer a stronger flavor)
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp fresh cracked black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 2/3 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper

Optional ingredients:

• Grated sharp cheddar cheese
• Sour cream
• Sliced scallions
• Crackers

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef.
2. Drain browned beef and transfer to a 6 quart pot.
3. Add all of the remaining ingredients and stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, cover, lower heat and let simmer on low for 1-1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Serve with your favorite crackers, or a slice of delicious grilled bread.

If you’re looking for an infinitely adaptable chili recipe, try Mom’s Basic Chili.

Recipe and Styling and Story by Star Laliberte
Photography by Keith Recker

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