Introduction:
Wendy’s Chili is a rich, hearty, and flavorful dish, perfect for any chili lover. This iconic fast-food recipe combines tender ground beef, kidney beans, pinto beans, and a mix of savory seasonings in a thick, spiced tomato base.
It’s a satisfying and comforting meal that’s great on its own or paired with cornbread.
If you love the chili at Wendy’s, this homemade version will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef (80% lean)
1/2 lb ground pork (optional, can be substituted with extra ground beef)
1 onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, helps balance acidity)
Salt to taste
Hot sauce (optional for added heat)
Instructions:
Cook the Beef and Pork: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and ground pork (if using). Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped onion and green bell pepper.
Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
Add Spices and Seasonings: Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, black pepper, and salt.
Stir to coat the meat and vegetables in the spices and cook for an additional 2 minutes to release the flavors.
Add Beans and Tomatoes:
Stir in the kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, and beef broth. Mix everything together well.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the chili cook uncovered for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
Adjust Consistency: If the chili is too thick, add a little more beef broth to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, simmer it a bit longer to reduce and thicken.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the chili and add salt, pepper, or hot sauce as desired for heat and seasoning.
Serve: Once the chili is thick and flavorful, serve it hot. You can top it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced green onions if desired.
Description:
This homemade version of Wendy’s Chili brings the classic fast-food flavor to your kitchen with a combination of seasoned ground meat, beans, and vegetables in a tomato-based broth. The balance of spices gives it a mild but hearty flavor, while the beans provide a wonderful texture. Whether you enjoy it alone or with cornbread, this chili is perfect for chilly days or as a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Tips:
Beef Quality: Use a mixture of lean ground beef and some fattier ground beef (like 80% lean) for the best texture and flavor.
Simmer Time: The longer you let the chili simmer, the more intense the flavors will become. Feel free to let it cook longer for even better results.
Customize Spice Level: If you like your chili spicy, add extra chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Make Ahead: This chili actually tastes better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld together.
Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Variations:
Vegetarian Chili: Skip the meat and add extra beans, such as black beans or navy beans, and vegetables like zucchini, corn, and carrots for a vegetarian version.
Beef Only: If you don’t like pork or want a leaner version, you can use only ground beef.
Smoky Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smokier chili flavor.
Beans: You can use different beans based on preference, such as black beans, white beans, or even chili beans.
Corrections:
Too Salty: If the chili is too salty, add a bit of sugar or a splash of vinegar to balance it out.
Too Thin: Let it simmer longer to thicken, or add a little cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it more quickly.
Too Spicy: If it becomes too spicy, add a bit of sugar or honey to mellow out the heat.
Enjoy:
Serve your homemade Wendy’s Chili hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions. Enjoy with a side of crusty bread, cornbread, or crackers for a complete and satisfying meal!