Slow Cooker Wendy's Chili Copycat
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
30 mins
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Cook Time
8 hrs
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Total Time
8 hrs 30 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Calories
684 kcal
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Course
Main Course, Soup
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Cuisine
American
Slow Cooker Wendy's Chili Copycat
Description
The recipe begins by searing ground beef until browned and seasoned, then sautéing onion, celery, bell pepper, and garlic to build aromatic depth. These ingredients transfer to a slow cooker along with diced tomatoes containing green chiles, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney and pinto beans in their juices, and beef broth. Spices including cumin, chili powder, paprika, cocoa powder, black pepper, salt, and white vinegar add warmth, earthiness, and balanced acidity.
Simmering on low heat for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours allows flavors to meld and develop a rich, hearty consistency. The inclusion of cocoa powder adds a subtle depth without overt sweetness. The finished chili provides a thick, savory texture that pairs well with traditional toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, jalapeño, and green onions.
This chili is practical for meal prep, slow cooker convenience, and offers flexibility in garnishes. Adjusting spice levels or toppings tailors the dish for different palates or occasions.
Ingredients
Chili:
- 2 tablespoons neutral cooking oil generic cooking oil
- 2 lbs ground beef 85/15 fat ratio
- 1 yellow onion diced
- 2 celery ribs chopped
- 1 green bell pepper seeded and chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cans diced tomatoes with green chiles 10 ounces each
- 14 ounces crushed tomatoes canned
- 14 ounces tomato sauce canned
- 14 ounces Kidney Beans not drained, can
- 2 cans pinto beans not drained, 14 ounces each
- 1 cup beef broth optional
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
Spices:
- 1 tablespoon cumin powder
- 1/4 cup chili powder
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper ground
- 2 teaspoons salt or to taste
Toppings:
- cheddar cheese shredded
- sour cream
- avocado diced
- jalapeno pepper diced
- green onion chopped
Instructions
- In a skillet, over medium-high add the ground beef. Cook it without moving for 3-5 minutes in its own fat, until nicely seared. Start breaking it with a spoon, season with salt and pepper and cook until no longer pink.
- Stir in the celery, onions, bell pepper and garlic, cook for another 3-5 minutes.
- Add the meat mixture to the slow cooker, add the rest of the ingredients and the SPICES.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 4 to 6 hours. Avoid opening the lid.
- Garnish with favorite toppings and serve warm.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 684 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 684kcal | 34% |
| Carbohydrates | 49g | 16% |
| Protein | 40g | 80% |
| Fat | 38g | 58% |
| Saturated Fat | 12g | 60% |
| Cholesterol | 107mg | 36% |
| Sodium | 2027mg | 84% |
| Potassium | 1769mg | 38% |
| Fiber | 15g | 60% |
| Sugar | 13g | 26% |
| Vitamin A | 1250IU | 25% |
| Vitamin C | 42mg | 47% |
| Calcium | 207mg | 21% |
| Iron | 10mg | 56% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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