Bring the comforting flavors of Wendy’s famous chili to your kitchen! This hearty and flavorful chili is packed with ground beef, beans, and spices—perfect for a cozy night in or meal prepping! 🍲
🛒 Ingredients:
- 🥩 2 lbs ground beef
- 🧅 1 large onion, diced
- 🫑 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 🌶️ 1 jalapeño pepper, diced (optional for extra heat)
- 🍅 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
- 🥫 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 🥫 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 🥫 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 🌶️ 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌿 2 tbsp chili powder
- 🌶️ 1 tsp ground cumin
- 🧂 1 tsp salt
- 🌶️ 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 🥄 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 💧 1 cup water
🔥 Instructions:
1️⃣ Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
2️⃣ Sauté the Veggies:
- Add the onion, green bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using) to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
3️⃣ Combine the Ingredients:
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, cumin, salt, and cayenne pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4️⃣ Simmer:
- Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1-1.5 hours, stirring occasionally to let the flavors meld together.
5️⃣ Finish with Vinegar:
- Stir in the white vinegar just before serving. It brightens the flavor and gives the chili that authentic taste!
6️⃣ Serve:
- Ladle into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or crackers.
🍯 Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Restaurant-Style: Tastes just like Wendy’s, if not better!
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level or swap beans to suit your taste.
- Meal Prep & Freeze-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for busy nights.
- Comfort Food Classic: Perfect for family meals, tailgates, or game days.
Enjoy the rich and savory flavors of this Copycat Wendy’s Chili—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! 🌶️🍲