Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of warm, hearty chili on a cool fall evening, and Wendy’s-inspired chili has become a staple in my home. This recipe delivers the perfect balance of savory, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. My family loves topping their bowls with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream, and the leftovers (if there are any) taste even better the next day!
Why You’ll Love This Wendy’s-Inspired Chili
- Authentic Flavor: This recipe replicates the classic taste of Wendy’s chili, with its signature blend of spices and textures.
- Comfort Food: It’s the perfect dish for warming up on a cold day or feeding a crowd.
- Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making it easy and budget-friendly.
- Versatile Cooking Options: You can prepare it on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, depending on your schedule.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for easy future meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
2 pounds fresh ground beef
1 quart tomato juice
1 (29-ounce) can tomato purée
1 (15-ounce) can red kidney beans, drained
1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained
1 medium-large onion, chopped (about 1 ½ cups)
½ cup diced celery
¼ cup diced green bell pepper
Spices and Seasonings:
¼ cup chili powder (adjust to taste for milder chili)
1 teaspoon ground cumin (add more for extra flavor)
1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon sugar
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat.
Combine Ingredients: In a 6-quart pot or slow cooker, combine the browned beef with the tomato juice, tomato purée, beans, onion, celery, and green bell pepper.
Add Seasonings: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, oregano, sugar, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
Simmer: If cooking on the stovetop, cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 1 to 1 ½ hours, stirring every 15 minutes. For the slow cooker, cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours.
Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or jalapeños.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per Serving: 290
Protein: 20 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fiber: 7 g
Sugar: 6 g
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg
Sodium: 780 mg
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 to 1 ½ hours (or 3 to 4 hours in a slow cooker)
Total Time: About 1 hour 45 minutes
How to Serve Wendy’s-Inspired Chili
- Serve with warm cornbread, crusty bread, or tortilla chips
- Add toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or sliced jalapeños
- Use as a side dish with baked potatoes or a fresh garden salad
- Repurpose leftovers as a topping for hot dogs, nachos, or baked potatoes
Additional Tips
Adjust the Spice Level: For milder chili, reduce the chili powder and cayenne. For a spicier kick, add fresh jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Enhance the Flavor: Let the chili rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Thicken the Chili: If you prefer a thicker chili, mash some of the beans with a fork or add a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in water.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or additional beans and vegetables.
Make It Ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day, so consider making it ahead of time for optimal flavor.
FAQ Section
Can I freeze leftover chili? Yes, let the chili cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
How can I make the chili thicker? Mash some of the beans or stir in a cornstarch slurry.
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this recipe.
What toppings go well with this chili? Shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and jalapeños are all great choices.
Can I make this chili spicier? Yes, add more cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce to increase the heat.
Can I make this chili in an Instant Pot? Yes, use the sauté function for the beef, then cook on high pressure for 20 minutes with a natural release.
What side dishes pair well with this chili? Cornbread, baked potatoes, or a simple garden salad are excellent options.
Can I substitute tomato juice? You can use beef broth, vegetable juice, or even water with a bit of tomato paste.
Is this chili gluten-free? Yes, as long as your chili powder and other seasonings are certified gluten-free.
How long can I store leftover chili in the fridge? Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Enjoy this delicious and hearty recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!