This Wendy’s Copycat Chili Slow Cooker balances hearty flavor with a straightforward process, so you get a reliable, delicious result every time.
Wendy’s Copycat Chili Slow Cooker captures the essence of meals|beef & lamb while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Wendy’s Copycat Chili Slow Cooker becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
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 c beef broth
1 tbsp cumin powder
1/4 c chilli powder
1 tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
How To Make Wendy’s Copycat Chili Slow Cooker
Place a large skillet on the stove and turn the heat to medium.
Add the ground beef, then cook until crumbly and brown. Discard any accumulated grease.
Transfer the browned beef into a 6-quart large slow cooker.
Add the rest of the ingredients into the slow cooker together with the browned beef. Stir until well combined.
Cover the slow cooker and cook for about 8 to 10 hours on a low setting or 4 to 6 hours on a high setting.
Ladle into servings bowls and garnish with your preferred herbs.
Enjoy
PREPARATION STEPS
Add the ground beef, then cook until crumbly and brown. Discard any accumulated grease.
Add the rest of the ingredients into the slow cooker together with the browned beef. Stir until well combined.
Continue with the recipe until cooked to your preference.
ORIGIN STORY
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 45 min | Total: 65 min | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~450 kcal | Difficulty: Medium
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRING
Green salad; Roasted vegetables; Rice or bread
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.