This hearty chili is a comforting mix of ground beef, beans, and rich spices. It’s perfect for chilly nights and easy to whip up in one pot—great for those busy days!
I love how you can customize it with your favorite toppings like cheese or sour cream. Plus, it smells amazing while it cooks—talk about a great way to warm up the house! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use 85% lean ground beef for a good balance of flavor and fat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. Just remember, these will alter the taste a bit!
Beans: The mix of kidney and pinto beans gives texture and heartiness. If you can’t find one type, black beans or cannellini beans can be a great substitute. They’ll add a different flavor, but still taste yummy!
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are key for that signature chili taste. If you want a bit more heat, add more chili powder or jalapeños. If you can’t handle heat, skip the red pepper flakes. You can also use a pre-made chili spice mix!
Diced Tomatoes: I use canned diced tomatoes for convenience, but fresh tomatoes work too. If you want a richer flavor, try fire-roasted diced tomatoes. Just make sure to adjust the liquids since they’re more juicy!
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Chili Consistency?
A common challenge with chili is getting the right thickness. Here are a few tips to help you achieve the perfect consistency:
- Start with less broth or water; you can always add more if needed.
- Let the chili simmer uncovered. This will allow it to reduce and thicken over time.
- If you prefer a thicker consistency at the end, you can mash some beans against the side of the pot to help it bind together.
Remember that chili often tastes better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make it ahead of time and let the flavors meld in the fridge!
Copycat Wendy’s Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes (with their juice)
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 45 minutes of cooking time. So, in total, set aside about 1 hour to make this delicious chili!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Remember to drain the excess fat afterwards to keep your chili from being greasy!
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with your browned beef. Sauté everything together for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and transparent. This will start building some amazing flavors!
3. Add the Spices:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. If you’d like some heat, add the crushed red pepper flakes. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute to toast the spices, making your kitchen smell wonderful!
4. Mix in the Beans and Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to add the kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, beef broth (or water), and sugar. Give everything a good stir to combine all those flavor-packed ingredients.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer uncovered for at least 45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help it thicken up. You’ll notice the flavors blending beautifully!
6. Adjust the Seasoning:
After simmering, taste your chili. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or chili powder if needed. It should be rich and flavorful.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your chili hot! You can top it with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and sprinkled green onions for that extra zing. It pairs perfectly with cornbread or crackers. Enjoy your homemade Copycat Wendy’s Chili!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute. Just keep in mind that it might require a little extra seasoning to achieve a similar flavor as beef. You can enhance the taste with extra spices if needed!
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with additional beans or lentils. You can also add some diced vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for extra texture. Make sure to use vegetable broth instead of beef broth!
Can I Freeze Leftover Chili?
Yes, you can freeze leftover chili! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!
What Should I Serve with This Chili?
This chili pairs perfectly with cornbread, tortilla chips, or rice! You can also serve it with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or sliced jalapeños for additional flavor and texture.
