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Comforting Wendy’s Chili Copycat Recipe

Wendy’s Chili Copycat Recipe - featured image
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A cozy, easy-to-make homemade chili inspired by Wendy’s, featuring tender beef, beans, and a creamy texture from blended cottage cheese. Perfect for quick weeknight meals or chilly evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 15 oz tomato sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup cottage cheese, blended smooth
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup water or beef broth

Instructions

  1. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Drain and rinse the kidney and pinto beans thoroughly. Blend the cottage cheese until smooth and set aside. (Approx. 10 minutes)
  2. Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until no pink remains and the meat starts to brown. Drain excess fat.
  3. Add the chopped onions to the pot and cook for 3 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and stir for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir well to coat the meat and onions.
  5. Pour in the tomato sauce and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine. Add the brown sugar and mix well.
  6. Stir in the kidney and pinto beans, then pour in the water or beef broth. Bring the chili to a gentle simmer.
  7. Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and let simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Stir in the blended cottage cheese to add creaminess. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let simmer for another 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

If chili gets too thick, add more broth or water to loosen. Avoid high heat during simmering to prevent beans from becoming mushy. Blending cottage cheese smooth before adding is key for creamy texture. For gluten-free version, use gluten-free soy sauce and almond flour if needed. Vegetarian and dairy-free adaptations are possible.

Nutrition

Keywords: chili, copycat recipe, Wendy's chili, comfort food, easy chili, homemade chili, beef chili, cozy meals

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/comforting-wendys-chili-copycat-recipe-easy-homemade-chili-for-cozy-nights/