just like wendy’s chili recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best just like wendy’s chili recipe

I’ve been making this just like Wendy’s chili recipe for years, and it’s still a family favorite. My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and they’re always excited to see what’s for dinner when I pull out this recipe.

It’s not just a meal, it’s an experience. The smell of simmering ground beef and onions fills the house, and everyone knows that dinner is going to be good.

This recipe is a staple in our household, and I’m excited to share it with you. One of the things I love about this recipe is that it’s so easy to make.

It’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup for me and more time spent enjoying dinner with my family. The ingredients are simple, yet the flavors are complex and satisfying.

I’ve tried other chili recipes over the years, but this one remains my go-to. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.

My family loves it because it’s hearty and comforting, but also because it’s healthy enough to feel good about serving it. Plus, it freezes beautifully, so we can enjoy leftovers for days to come.

Just Like Wendy’s Chili

4.8 from 1548 votes

This hearty chili mimics the classic fast food favorite with ground beef, kidney beans, and a rich tomato base. It’s perfect for a comforting meal that tastes just like the original.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chili

2 lbs ground beef (80/20)
1 large onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup water

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add the ground beef.
2Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it is browned and no longer pink.
3Drain off any excess fat.
4Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the pot with the beef.
5Cook over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
6Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
7Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, and water.
8Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper if using, and season with salt and black pepper.
9Stir everything together until well combined.
10Bring the chili to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes.
11Stir occasionally and cook until the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
12Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Knife and cutting board
Can opener
Measuring spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 8g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a thicker chili, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot before serving. This chili tastes even better the next day after the flavors have developed.

Watch Video Of How Just Like Wendy’s Chili Works

This just like Wendy’s chili recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether we’re having a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a big gathering with friends.

It freezes beautifully, so we can enjoy leftovers for days to come.

My family loves it because it’s hearty and comforting, but also because it’s healthy enough to feel good about serving it.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Just Like Wendy’s Chili

Q: What is the secret ingredient in this just like Wendy’s chili recipe?

This recipe doesn’t have any secret ingredients – just simple, high-quality ingredients that make up a delicious and authentic flavor profile.

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer – just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

No, this recipe contains ground beef and is not suitable for vegetarians.

Q: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this chili in a slow cooker – simply brown the meat and cook the onions before transferring everything to the slow cooker.

Q: How long does this chili keep in the fridge?

This chili will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days – after that, it’s best to freeze it or discard it.

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