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Copycat Wendy’s Chili

A hearty and flavorful chili recipe that replicates the classic Wendy’s chili, featuring ground beef, beans, vegetables, and a blend of spices simmered to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 cup celery, chopped
  • 1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped
  • 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Shredded cheddar cheese, for topping
  • Crackers, for serving

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef in a large stock pot over medium heat until no longer pink.
  2. Add the chopped celery, green bell pepper, and onion halfway through cooking and cook until tender.
  3. Drain off any excess grease from the pot.
  4. Add the pinto beans, kidney beans, tomato sauce, water, chili powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using.
  5. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
  6. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes to blend flavors.
  7. Serve hot topped with shredded cheddar cheese and crackers on the side.

Notes

For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper to taste. Adding cooked bacon or extra vegetables can enhance the flavor and texture. This chili is great for leftovers as the flavors deepen overnight.

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