This Copycat Wendy’s Chili is hearty and full of flavor! Made with ground beef, kidney beans, and a blend of spices, it’s perfect for a cozy meal.
Honestly, it’s hard to resist a big bowl of this chili, especially with some cheese on top. I like to enjoy mine with cornbread—such a tasty combo!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well. For a vegetarian twist, swap in lentils or your favorite meat substitute.
Kidney Beans: Kidney beans are classic for chili. You can also use black beans or pinto beans if you prefer. If you’re short on time, canned beans are perfectly fine—just remember to rinse them!
Diced Tomatoes: I prefer using canned diced tomatoes for convenience, but you can use fresh tomatoes if they’re in season. Just chop them up and add them in. Canned tomatoes with herbs added will also boost the flavor.
Chili Powder: Chili powder is key for flavor! If you want to tweak it, you could use a combination of smoked paprika and cayenne for a smoky kick. Always adjust to your taste as some powders can pack more heat!
How Do I Cook the Ground Beef Correctly?
Getting the ground beef right is critical for a great chili. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Heat your pot on medium-high before adding the beef. This helps it brown nicely.
- As it cooks, use a wooden spoon to break it into small pieces. This helps with even cooking.
- Don’t rush to drain the fat! Some fat adds flavor, but if it looks excessive, draining is fine.
- Make sure to cook until well browned, as this will add depth to your chili.
How Can I Enhance the Flavor of My Chili?
Enhancing flavor can take your chili to the next level. Here are some tips:
- Add the spices early with the beef to release their flavors.
- Don’t skip the sugar! It balances the acidity from the tomatoes.
- A splash of vinegar (apple cider or red wine) at the end can brighten everything up.
- Let the chili sit for a bit after cooking—this helps flavors blend better!
With these insights and techniques, you’ll be on your way to making a delicious copycat version of Wendy’s chili right at home! Enjoy!
Copycat Wendy’s Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato juice
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 30-40 minutes to cook, making the total time around 50 minutes. It’s a great dish for a weeknight dinner, with the option to let it simmer longer if you like more flavor development.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the ground beef and cook over medium-high heat until it’s browned. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Once it’s browned, you may want to drain some of the excess fat, depending on how lean your beef is.
2. Add Onion and Garlic:
Stir in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them together until the onions are soft and start to look translucent, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
3. Mix in the Spices:
Add in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, sugar, and (if you’re using it) the cayenne pepper. Stir and cook for another minute to give the spices a chance to toast and deepen in flavor.
4. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Next, add in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, kidney beans, tomato juice, and water. Give everything a good stir to combine it all nicely.
5. Simmer Your Chili:
Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will help the chili thicken and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
6. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, taste your chili and adjust any seasonings as needed. You might want more salt or a bit more sugar to balance the flavors.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chili hot, and if you like, top it with some shredded cheddar cheese. It pairs perfectly with cornbread or your favorite side dish!
This chili is rich, hearty, and captures the delicious flavors of Wendy’s classic chili, making it a fantastic dish to enjoy at home!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and will still provide good flavor. Just keep an eye on cooking time as it may cook a bit differently than beef.
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you want to up the heat, consider adding more cayenne pepper or including diced jalapeños. You could also mix in a dash of hot sauce before serving for an extra kick!
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes, this chili freezes well! Store leftovers in an airtight container, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What Can I Serve With This Chili?
This chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple side salad. For a heartier meal, serve it over rice or pasta for a delicious twist!