Copycat Wendy’s Chili

Ingredients:

Directions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, pepper, and celery and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the tomato paste and stir to combine. Cook for about 1 minute.
3. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking apart as it cooks, until cooked through. Optional – drain the excess grease.
4. Add the chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder and generously season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the can of crushed tomatoes then fill the can about halfway with water and pour into the pot.
6. Add both cans of beans (including the liquid from the cans) and stir to combine.
7. Bring to a boil then reduce to simmer and let cook for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. To serve, ladle into bowls and garnish with shredded cheese and add a few crackers on the side for dipping. Enjoy!