Skip to content

Wendys Chili - Swedish Style

This is a variation of Wendy's Chili published by Pam Walk, www.food.com recipe #17858 Wendy's Chili. Adapted to 6 servings.

5.0 · 1 reviewsRecipe card by Aloof - The weekendEditorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 18, 2026
Share

Total time

150 min

Servings

6

Calories

380.5

Category

Soups & Stews

This Swedish-style twist on Wendy's famous chili combines hearty ground beef, kidney beans, and a smoky chipotle kick, slow-simmered to perfection. It's a cozy, budget-friendly lunch or snack that pairs beautifully with nachos, cheddar, and a cold Pripps beer.

Ingredients

Makes 6 servings

  • 1 ground beef
  • 1 tomato sauce
  • 1 kidney beans
  • 1 red onion
  • 1/2 garlic cloves
  • 4 celery
  • 1/4 tomatoes
  • 3 brown sugar
  • 3 cumin powder
  • 2 -3 chili powder
  • 3 chipotle paste
  • 1 black pepper
  • 1 1/2 salt
  • 2 water

Method

  1. Brown ground beef.

  2. Add tomato sauce, kidney beans, onion, jalapenos, garlic cloves, celery, tomatoes, brown sguar, cumin, chili powder, chipotle paste, pepper, salt, and water or chicken stock.

  3. Simmer for 2 or 3 hours over low heat.

  4. Serve in bowls with nachos around and top with shredded cheddar cheese.

  5. Goes well with Swedish Pripps beer or, if needed, Bud will do.

  6. Great for those Sundays (when you wished you'd stayed at home on Saturday) watching tons of movies.

Cook's notes

  • For best flavor, let the chili simmer for at least 2 hours — the longer, the better.
  • Use canned kidney beans (rinsed) to save time without sacrificing taste.
  • Adjust chipotle paste to your heat preference; start with 2 teaspoons for mild spice.
  • Serve with tortilla chips and shredded cheddar for that classic Wendy's feel.

Frequently asked

What makes this chili 'Swedish style'?

The addition of brown sugar and chipotle paste creates a sweet-smoky balance, and the recipe recommends pairing with Swedish Pripps beer.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely — ground turkey works well and keeps it lean.

Is this chili very spicy?

It has a mild-to-medium heat from chili powder and chipotle. Reduce chipotle for less spice.

What can I serve on the side?

Nachos, shredded cheddar, sour cream, or cornbread are all excellent choices.

You might also like

More Soups & Stews →