Chili Copycat Recipe

By:

Stella Romano

Published:

March 18, 2026

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Why You’ll Love This Tim Hortons Chili

Author: Stella Romano

My blog shares my passion for cooking by offering a variety of recipes that are simple and accessible to everyone. My ambition is to inspire readers to explore new flavors, cook with joy, and create memorable moments around the table.

Ease of preparation: This Tim Hortons Chili copycat is straightforward. With simple steps like browning the beef, sautéing vegetables, and letting everything simmer, you can have a full pot ready in about 1 hour and 25 minutes. It uses pantry staples and only one main pot once you combine ingredients, so cleanup is easy.
Health benefits: Packed with ground beef and kidney beans, this chili supplies protein and fiber that keep you full longer. The vegetables add vitamins and minerals, and you can control sodium and fat by choosing lean beef or low-sodium canned ingredients.
Versatility: The base recipe adapts well: make it vegetarian, swap beans, or turn it into a crock pot meal. It also scales up easily this version serves about 15 to 20 people, which is perfect for potlucks or meal prep.
Distinctive flavor: The mild sweetness from undiluted tomato soup and the warm, familiar notes of chili powder and oregano make this chili comforting and kid-friendly. It’s meaty, slightly sweet, and softly spiced exactly what Tim Hortons fans expect.

For a helpful reference while you cook, check this classic online version: + $(‘AI Agent’).item.json.output.Anchor1 +.

Essential Ingredients for Tim Hortons Chili

Below is the complete ingredients list for the Hearty Ground Beef Chili Recipe used in this Tim Hortons Chili copycat. Each ingredient includes a short note on why it matters.

2 lbs ground beef – Provides the rich, meaty base and protein for this large-batch chili.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps brown the beef and sauté vegetables if your beef is very lean.
2 to 3 stalks celery, diced – Adds crunch and savory depth to the vegetable mix.
3 green peppers, diced – Brings a fresh, slightly sweet flavor and volume to the chili.
1 onion, diced – Builds the aromatic foundation when sautéed in pan drippings.
1 (19 ounce) can mushrooms, rinsed and drained – Adds texture and an earthy note; canned saves time.
2 (10 ounce) cans kidney beans, drained and chopped – Offers fiber, body, and classic chili texture.
2 (10 ounce) cans tomato soup, undiluted – Gives signature sweetness and a smooth, kid-friendly base.
1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes – Adds acidity, tomato chunks, and extra liquid for simmering.
2 tablespoons chili powder, divided – The main seasoning; split use deepens flavor.
1 teaspoon oregano – Adds herbal warmth and a savory balance to the tomato base.
1 teaspoon salt – Brings out all the flavors; adjust to taste.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Provides subtle background heat.
1 teaspoon sugar – Balances the tomato acidity and supports the mild sweetness of the soup.
1 to 2 cloves garlic, minced or 3 teaspoons garlic – Fresh or jarred garlic adds aromatic depth.

Special Dietary Options

Vegan: Replace ground beef with 2 lbs plant-based ground meat or 4 cups cooked lentils; use vegetable oil and vegetable soup (undiluted) instead of tomato soup containing dairy. Substitute kidney beans with black beans or a mix for variety.
Gluten-free: Most canned tomatoes, beans, and spices are naturally gluten-free. Check labels for the tomato soup to ensure it is gluten-free or use a gluten-free tomato base like passata plus tomato paste.
Low-calorie: Use 90% lean ground beef or ground turkey, reduce olive oil to 1 teaspoon, opt for low-sodium beans and tomato products, and skip the sugar. Bulk up with extra vegetables like carrots or zucchini to keep it filling.

How to Prepare the Perfect Tim Hortons Chili: Step-by-Step Guide

This step-by-step walkthrough follows the Hearty Ground Beef Chili Recipe provided. Read through once, gather ingredients, and follow the sequence for best results.

First Step: Mise en place

Gather and prep all ingredients before you start cooking. Dice 1 onion, 2 to 3 stalks celery, and 3 green peppers. Rinse and drain 1 (19 ounce) can mushrooms. Drain and chop two 10 ounce cans of kidney beans. Open the 28 ounce can of diced tomatoes. Measure out chili powder, oregano, salt, pepper, sugar, and garlic.

Second Step: Brown the beef

Heat a large frying pan over medium heat with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add 2 lbs ground beef and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Let the beef brown fully to build flavor this caramelization adds depth. Transfer the browned meat and any drippings to a large pot; do not drain the drippings. Leaving drippings adds flavor to the sautéed vegetables.

Third Step: Sauté the vegetables

Using the same frying pan with pan drippings, add the diced onion, diced celery, and diced green peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes over medium heat until the onion is translucent and the peppers begin to soften. While sautéing, add a portion of the chili powder (about 1 tablespoon) to toast briefly with the vegetables; this wakes up the spices and reduces raw edge.

Fourth Step: Combine in the pot

Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the browned ground beef and drippings. Add the rinsed and drained kidney beans, the drained mushrooms, 2 (10 ounce) cans undiluted tomato soup, and the 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes with their liquid. Stir to combine.

Fifth Step: Season the chili

Add the remaining 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 1 to 2 cloves garlic (minced) or 3 teaspoons garlic. Stir the pot thoroughly so the seasonings are evenly distributed. Taste and adjust salt or chili powder lightly remember flavors develop during simmering.

Sixth Step: Simmer

Bring the pot to a gentle boil, then reduce heat so the chili is at a low simmer. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom. After an hour, remove the cover and simmer for an additional 30 minutes or more, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens to your liking and flavors meld.

Final Step: Finishing touches and serving

Once the chili has simmered and the flavors are melded, taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot in bowls with optional toppings such as shredded cheddar, chopped onions, crackers, or a dollop of sour cream. This batch serves about 15 to 20 people and is ready in approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes.

If you want a visual comparison or another take on this style of chili, see this helpful resource: + $(‘AI Agent’).item.json.output.Anchor2 +.

Timing and temperature quick reference

Task	Time	Temperature/Note
Brown beef	10-12 minutes	Medium heat
Sauté vegetables	5 minutes	Medium heat, add 1 tbsp chili powder while sautéing
Covered simmer	1 hour	Low simmer
Open simmer	30+ minutes	Low simmer until thickened

Tip: Letting the chili rest in the refrigerator overnight improves flavor. Reheat gently before serving.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Tim Hortons Chili

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

If you need to swap the main protein or make the recipe vegetarian, there are simple, tasty options. Below are straightforward swaps that keep the chili hearty and satisfying.

Ground turkey or chicken: Use the same weight (2 lbs) but watch for lower fat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil when cooking to prevent drying out.
Plant-based ground: Replace 2 lbs ground beef with 2 lbs plant-based crumbles. Sauté as usual and consider adding a splash of soy sauce for umami.
Lentils or mixed beans: Use 4 cups cooked lentils or a mix of black beans and pinto beans to replace beef entirely. Lentils keep the texture meaty and are high in protein.
Partial swap: Combine 1 lb ground beef with 1 lb cooked quinoa or mushrooms for a lower-fat, still-meaty texture while keeping rich flavor.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Swap or add vegetables and adjust seasonings to suit availability, seasons, or dietary needs.

Fresh mushrooms: Use 8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced, instead of canned for a brighter, meatier texture. Sauté them with the onions until browned.
Other peppers: Replace green peppers with red or orange for sweeter notes, or add jalapeños for more heat.
Beans: Swap kidney beans for black beans or pinto beans. For a three-bean chili, add a can of pinto beans too.
Tomato soup alternatives: If you do not have undiluted tomato soup, use 1.5 cups crushed tomatoes plus 1/2 cup tomato paste and 1/2 cup water, or 2 cups passata with a pinch of sugar to mimic the soup texture and sweetness.
Spice level: Keep it mild with 2 tablespoons chili powder. Add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne or chopped fresh chiles for medium heat.

Mastering Tim Hortons Chili: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the base recipe, try the following techniques and twists to refine texture, flavor, and presentation. This section includes pro tips, flavor changes, serving ideas, and make-ahead strategies.

Pro cooking techniques

Bloom spices: Toast chili powder and oregano briefly in the pan while sautéing vegetables to deepen their aroma.
Layer flavors: Add spices in two stages (as the recipe instructs) so you get both bright and mellow spice notes.
Deglaze the pan: After browning beef, splash a little water or broth into the pan and scrape up browned bits before adding the vegetables; this captures concentrated flavor.

Flavor variations

Smoky bacon: Add 6 strips chopped bacon crisped first; remove some fat if needed before browning the beef for smoky depth.
Mexican twist: Add 1 teaspoon ground cumin and a tablespoon of masa harina at the end to thicken and add corn flavor.
Asian-inspired: Stir in 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 teaspoon rice vinegar for an umami twist (works best with plant-based ground meat).

Presentation tips

Serve in shallow bowls and top with shredded cheddar, diced red onion, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for contrast.
Offer crackers or saltine-style biscuits on the side to mimic the fast-food pairing.
For a family-style table, present chili in a warm slow cooker set to low so guests can serve themselves.

Make-ahead options

Make the chili a day ahead and refrigerate. Flavors will meld and taste better the next day.
For crock pot cooking, drain the diced tomatoes before adding and cook on low for about 5 hours.
Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat until steaming hot.

Want a warm dessert to follow your chili? Try a simple sweet finish like these Salted Carmelitas or a light Berry Trifle for potluck-friendly dessert options.

How to Store Tim Hortons Chili: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your chili safe and tasty. Below are recommended methods for short-term refrigeration, long-term freezing, reheating, and meal prep.

Refrigeration

Cool the chili to room temperature (no more than 2 hours at room temp), then transfer to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Use shallow containers to speed cooling and help maintain quality.

Freezing

Chili freezes very well for up to 3 months. Portion into airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some headroom for expansion. Flatten freezer bags to save space and allow quicker thawing. Label with date.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches 165°F. If thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth. You can also microwave single portions on medium power, stirring every minute.

Meal prep considerations

Divide into single-serving containers for grab-and-go lunches. Freeze some servings and keep a few in the fridge for the week. Add fresh toppings like cheese and onions right before serving to keep texture fresh.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Tim Hortons Chili

How do I make Tim Hortons chili at home?

To replicate Tim Hortons chili, brown 1 lb ground beef with 1 chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves in a large pot. Drain excess fat, then stir in 1 can (19 oz) undiluted tomato soup, 1 can (19 oz) kidney beans (drained), 1 can (19 oz) pinto beans (drained), 1 cup water, 2 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. For best flavor, let it sit overnight in the fridge. Serves 6-8. This copycat version matches the hearty, mildly spiced taste fans love. Adjust chili powder for more heat. Total time: 1 hour. (92 words)

What can I use instead of undiluted tomato soup for Tim Hortons chili?

If undiluted tomato soup is unavailable, substitute with 1.5 cups crushed tomatoes mixed with 1/2 cup tomato paste and 1/2 cup water for similar thickness and tang. Or use 2 cups passata blended smooth with a pinch of sugar to mimic sweetness. Avoid diluted versions to keep the chili’s signature rich base. In your recipe, add this after browning beef and onions, then proceed with beans and spices. Test a small batch first—taste and adjust salt. This keeps the copycat authentic without changing texture. (98 words)

Is Tim Hortons chili spicy?

Tim Hortons chili has mild spice, suitable for most tastes—it’s flavorful from chili powder and cumin but not overpowering. Official menu version rates low on the heat scale (around 2/10). In homemade copies, use 2 tbsp chili powder for authentic mild kick; add cayenne (1/4 tsp) for medium heat or diced jalapeños for extra. Simmer longer to blend flavors. Serve with shredded cheddar, onions, or crackers like at Tim Hortons. Kids and spice-averse eaters enjoy it plain. Nutrition note: A bowl (250g) has about 300 calories, 20g protein. (102 words)

How many calories are in Tim Hortons chili?

A standard 8 oz bowl of Tim Hortons chili contains approximately 290 calories, with 18g protein, 12g fat, 28g carbs, and 8g fiber. It’s filling due to beans and beef. Homemade versions match closely: per serving (1/6 recipe) around 280-320 calories depending on beef leanness. Track with lean ground beef (90%+) and low-sodium beans to cut fat. High in iron (20% DV) from beef and fiber from beans. Pair with a side salad for a balanced meal under 500 calories. Check Tim Hortons app for latest nutrition, as recipes vary slightly by location. (108 words)

Can you freeze Tim Hortons copycat chili?

Yes, homemade Tim Hortons chili freezes well for up to 3 months. Cool completely, portion into airtight containers or freezer bags (flatten for space), leaving headroom for expansion. Label with date. Thaw overnight in fridge or microwave on defrost. Reheat on stovetop over medium heat until 165°F internal temp, stirring to prevent sticking—add water if thickened. Flavors improve after freezing. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Tip: Freeze in single servings for quick lunches. Matches restaurant quality post-reheat. Great for meal prep. (92 words)