When the air turns crisp and the evening promises quiet comfort, there’s something about a slow cooker chili that feels like an old friend showing up just in time. This version captures the hearty spirit of Wendy’s famous chili, all made easy by letting the slow cooker do the work while you settle into your night.
One afternoon not too long ago, I tossed everything into the slow cooker before running out for a few errands. I didn’t realize until I got back that I’d forgotten to turn on the timer properly—so it cooked a little longer than planned. The result? Even deeper flavors and a stew-like richness that surprised me in the best way. It wasn’t perfect timing, but sometimes those little mishaps make the meal even more memorable. The scent of the spices, mingling with the savory beef and tender beans, filled the house and made me eager to dig in.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Hands-off cooking lets you focus on other things while the chili simmers to perfection.
- It’s full of familiar, comforting flavors with a depth that only slow cooking can bring.
- The recipe isn’t fussy — and that’s kind of the point; it’s straightforward but satisfying.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it even easier to enjoy a cozy dinner the next day.
If you’re worried about the timing or the spice level, don’t be. The slow cooker gives you plenty of room to tweak things afterward. Just stir and taste when it’s done, then adjust as you like.
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Wendy’s Copycat Chili in the Slow Cooker
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
Enjoy a hearty and flavorful copycat version of Wendy’s famous chili made effortlessly in your slow cooker. This recipe features ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a perfect blend of spices simmered to perfection.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 cup water
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
Drain excess fat from the cooked ground beef and transfer it to the slow cooker.
Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the slow cooker with the beef.
Add the kidney beans, pinto beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), and water to the slow cooker.
Sprinkle the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
Stir all ingredients together until well combined.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours.
After cooking, stir the chili and taste for seasoning; adjust salt or spices if needed.
Serve hot with your favorite chili toppings such as shredded cheese, chopped onions, or crackers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
Kitchen Notes: You don’t need any fancy gadgets here—just a reliable slow cooker to meld all those flavors over several hours. Serve this chili with a simple side like cornbread or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. I’ve played around a bit by swapping in different beans, and sometimes I toss in a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky twist, though I haven’t tested all those variations thoroughly. Adding a bit of shredded cheese or chopped onions on top feels satisfying, but honestly, it’s great just as it is.
FAQ:
Can I make this chili on the stovetop? Yes, you can simmer it gently for about an hour, stirring occasionally, but the slow cooker really brings out the best flavors.
Is it spicy? It has a gentle kick from the spices, but you can dial it up or down to suit your taste.
How long does it keep? Stored in the fridge, it’s good for about four days. You can also freeze portions for up to three months.
When you’re craving a warm, comforting meal without the fuss, this chili is a reliable go-to. Give it a try, save the recipe, and see how it fits into your cozy dinners.