This slow cooker chili recipe is an excellent replication of Wendy’s classic chili. It combines the savory taste of ground beef with the sweetness of bell peppers and onions, the creaminess of beans, and a blend of spices that bring warmth and depth to the dish. The slow cooking process ensures that every bite is rich and flavorful, making it a hit for any meal occasion.
Wendy’s Copycat Chili Slow Cooker
This recipe recreates the hearty and comforting flavor of Wendy’s famous chili right in your kitchen. It’s packed with ground beef, beans, and a rich blend of spices, making it perfect for a cozy family meal or a game day gathering. Using a slow cooker allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, giving you a deliciously thick and savory chili with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 (29 oz.) can tomato sauce
- 2 (1.5 oz. cans) diced tomatoes, not drained
- 3 ribs celery, chopped
- 1 (29 oz. can) pinto beans, drained
- 1 (29 oz. can) kidney beans, drained
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cumin powder
- 1/4 cup chili powder
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Brown the Beef:
- Place a large skillet on the stove over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s crumbly and browned. Drain any excess grease to remove unwanted fat.
2. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Transfer the browned beef into a 6-quart slow cooker.
3. Add Ingredients:
- Add the chopped green bell pepper, diced yellow onion, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juice), chopped celery, pinto beans, kidney beans, and beef broth into the slow cooker with the beef.
- Season with cumin powder, chili powder, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir all ingredients until well combined.
4. Cook the Chili:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook the chili on a low setting for 8 to 10 hours or on a high setting for 4 to 6 hours. The long cooking time allows the flavors to develop and intensify.
5. Serve:
- Once cooked, give the chili a good stir. Ladle it into serving bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or fresh cilantro.
Enjoy!
Tips:
- Customize Your Heat: Adjust the chili powder to your taste. If you prefer a spicier chili, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Meat Options: While ground beef is traditional, you can also use ground turkey or a mix of ground meats for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Version: To make this chili vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with extra beans or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh.
- Thicker Chili: If you prefer a thicker chili, you can slightly mash some of the beans or let the chili cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to an hour.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your chili with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad to make a complete meal.
This Wendy’s Copycat Chili Slow Cooker recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends, this chili brings comfort and satisfaction to the table.
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