Wendy’s Chili — Copycat Recipe You’ll Never Lose
When it comes to hearty, comforting meals that warm you from the inside out, Wendy’s Chili is a timeless classic. This recipe perfectly recreates that signature thick, flavorful chili you know and love — loaded with tender ground beef, kidney and pinto beans, and a perfectly seasoned tomato base.
It’s rich, savory, slightly smoky, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner on a cold night or meal prepping for the week, this chili is the ultimate comfort food that never disappoints.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh ground beef
- 1 quart (4 cups) tomato juice
- 1 (29-ounce) can tomato purée
- 1 (15-ounce) can red kidney beans, drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained
- 1 medium-large onion, chopped (about 1 ½ cups)
- ½ cup diced celery
- ¼ cup diced green bell pepper
- ¼ cup chili powder (use less for milder chili)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (use more for a bolder flavor)
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon sugar
Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, sour cream, or oyster crackers
Directions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s fully browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This should take about 7–10 minutes.
Once browned, drain off any excess fat to keep your chili rich but not greasy.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, celery, and green bell pepper to the pot with the cooked beef. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become soft and aromatic.
This base adds incredible flavor and depth to your chili — it’s the key to recreating that signature Wendy’s taste.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Beans
Pour in the tomato juice and tomato purée, then add both cans of drained beans (kidney and pinto). Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
The mixture will start looking thick and hearty already — exactly what you want.
Step 4: Season the Chili
Add the chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and sugar. Stir until all the spices are evenly distributed.
Tip: Taste your chili base here — if you like it spicier, add an extra tablespoon of chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Step 5: Simmer Low and Slow
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover partially and let it simmer for 1 to 1½ hours, stirring occasionally.
As it simmers, the flavors will deepen, the sauce will thicken, and your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing. If the chili gets too thick, add a splash of tomato juice or water to loosen it up.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
When the chili is done, it should be thick, rich, and full of flavor — just like the real thing from Wendy’s.
Ladle it into bowls and top with shredded cheese, chopped onions, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve it with crackers or warm cornbread for the ultimate comfort meal.
Tips & Variations
- Make It Spicier: Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to kick up the heat.
- Thicker Chili: Simmer uncovered for the last 20 minutes to reduce the liquid and intensify the flavors.
- Add Sweetness: A small pinch of sugar (or even a bit of cocoa powder) helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Slow Cooker Method: Brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on Low for 6–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours.
- Storage: This chili tastes even better the next day! Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Servings: 6–8 hearty portions
Why You’ll Love This Wendy’s Copycat Chili
This homemade version captures everything people love about Wendy’s famous chili — it’s savory, meaty, and loaded with beans and spices that make every bite satisfying. The combination of tomato juice, chili powder, and cumin creates that signature flavor that’s rich but not overpowering.
It’s also incredibly versatile — serve it on baked potatoes, spoon it over hot dogs for chili dogs, or enjoy it on its own with a sprinkle of cheese. Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or cozy nights in.