Description

This hearty Wendy’s Copycat Chili recipe is a comforting, beefy bowl loaded with beans, tomatoes, and spices. It’s the perfect homemade chili for meal prep, cold nights, or a healthy fast-food alternative. With classic chili flavor, this easy one-pot meal is ideal for family dinners or freezing ahead.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef

1 medium onion, chopped

2 stalks celery, chopped

1 green bell pepper, chopped

1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes

1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce

1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, drained and rinsed

2 tablespoons chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon salt

0.5 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup water

1 tablespoon sugar

1 tablespoon white vinegar

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat.

2. Add chopped onion, celery, and green bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, and pinto beans.

4. Season with chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and sugar.

5. Pour in water and stir everything well.

6. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes.

7. Just before serving, stir in white vinegar for brightness.

8. Serve hot with your favorite toppings or store for later.

Notes

This chili gets better the next day as the flavors deepen.

You can swap the ground beef with turkey or even plant-based meat.

For extra spice, add cayenne or hot sauce while simmering.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 320
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 890mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 45mg