How to Make Wendy’s Inspired Chili at Home in 3 Easy Steps

There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of chili, especially when it’s inspired by the beloved Wendy’s Chili Recipe. If you’re like me, you might find yourself craving that rich, hearty flavor on a chilly evening. Today, I’m excited to share my Wendy’s-Inspired Chili: A Home Cook’s Copycat recipe that you can whip up in just three easy steps! Perfect for quick family dinners or as a cozy weeknight dinner idea, this chili is sure to become a staple in your home. And if you’re looking for more easy pasta recipes, don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich, deep flavors that rival your favorite restaurant chili.
• Customizable with your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.
• Great for meal prep and leftovers, making it a fantastic option for 30-minute meals.
• Perfect for serving at gatherings or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients

To create this delicious chili, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
• ½ pound (225g) ground Italian sausage (optional, for extra flavor depth)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (14.5 ounce/411g) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce/425g) can tomato sauce
• 1 (6 ounce/170g) can tomato paste
• 1 (15 ounce/425g) can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 ounce/425g) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups (475ml) beef broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup dehydrated onion flakes (optional)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful chili:

1. Brown the ground beef and Italian sausage (if using) in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, kidney beans, pinto beans, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, pepper, beef broth, apple cider vinegar, and dehydrated onion flakes.
4. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 2 hours, or longer for even deeper flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed (salt, pepper, cayenne pepper).
6. Ladle into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your chili turns out perfectly:

• For a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
• Feel free to add more beans or vegetables to suit your taste.
• If you like it spicy, increase the cayenne pepper or add some diced jalapeños.
• For a smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika.
• Pair it with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.

How to Serve

Serving your chili is just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas:

• Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for a classic touch.
• Serve with tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast.
• For a heartier meal, serve it over a bed of rice or with a side of cornbread.
• Don’t forget to check out my Best Ever Beef Chili for another delicious option!

Make Ahead and Storage

This chili is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully, so feel free to make a double batch and save some for later. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking! This Wendy’s Chili Recipe Copycat is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. And if you’re looking for more delicious recipes, don’t miss my Classic Slow Cooker Chili or explore my Chili Recipe for more inspiration!