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Wendy’s Copycat Chili

Wendy’s Copycat Chili
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This Wendy’s Copycat Chili recipe delivers the rich, hearty, and savory flavors of the classic fast-food favorite right in your own kitchen. Packed with tender ground beef, kidney and pinto beans, and a savory blend of spices, this chili is easy to make, customizable, and perfect for a comforting meal any time of year.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Beans

  • 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed

Tomato Base

  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Aromatics and Spices

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

Liquids

  • 1 to 2 cups water or broth (adjust for desired consistency)

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to prevent greasiness.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes to build the flavor base.
  3. Add Beans and Tomato Base: Stir in the kidney beans, pinto beans, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. This creates the rich, hearty foundation of the chili.
  4. Season the Chili: Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, black pepper, and salt over the mixture. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices so they can bloom and infuse the dish.
  5. Simmer for Bold Flavor: Pour in water or broth to reach your preferred consistency. Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat and cook uncovered for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop deep flavors.

Notes

  • Use fresh chili powder and cumin for best flavor impact.
  • Drain beef fat for a leaner chili or keep it for a richer taste.
  • Simmer longer for deeper, more developed flavors.
  • Adjust chili powder gradually to balance heat.
  • Dice onions and garlic evenly for uniform cooking and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Wendy's copycat chili, homemade chili, beef chili, easy chili recipe, copycat recipe, comfort food, chili with beans

Find it online: https://dailydishez.com/wendys-copycat-chili/