Introduction
Wendy’s Chili is a comforting classic loved for its hearty texture and rich flavor. This homemade copycat recipe recreates the magic of the original, offering a delicious blend of ground beef, beans, and spices. Perfect for a family dinner, meal prep, or a cozy night in, this dish is guaranteed to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
For the Chili Base
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 quart tomato juice
- 1 (29-ounce) can tomato purée
- 1 (15-ounce) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 ½ cups chopped onion (about 1 medium-large onion)
- ½ cup diced celery
- ¼ cup diced green bell pepper
Seasonings
- ¼ cup chili powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (more for deeper flavor)
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
Instructions
1. Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Crumble the ground beef into the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Drain off excess fat and set the beef aside.
2. Combine Ingredients in a Pot
- In a 6-quart pot, add the cooked ground beef.
- Pour in the tomato juice and tomato purée.
- Stir in the red kidney beans, pinto beans, onion, celery, and bell pepper.
3. Add the Spices
- Sprinkle the chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, sugar, and cayenne pepper over the mixture.
- Mix thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
4. Simmer the Chili
- Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low.
- Let the chili simmer for 1 to 1 ½ hours, stirring every 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Optional Slow Cooker Method
- Transfer the browned beef and all other ingredients into a slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
- Pair with cornbread, tortilla chips, or a baked potato for a satisfying meal.
Helpful Tips
For Thicker Chili
Simmer the chili uncovered for the last 20-30 minutes or add 1-2 tablespoons of masa harina or cornmeal for a thicker texture.
For Milder Flavor
Omit the cayenne pepper and reduce the chili powder for a less spicy dish.
Flavor Boosters
A splash of beer or a squeeze of lime juice can enhance the flavor profile.
Substitutions and Variations
Vegetarian Option
Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles or increase the amount of beans. Add vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra texture.
Low-Carb Version
Skip the beans and add extra ground beef or more diced tomatoes.
Turkey Chili
Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner alternative.
Smoky Twist
Add smoked paprika or a few dashes of liquid smoke for a rich, smoky flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Wendy’s Chili?
Yes! Cool the chili completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How can I thicken the chili?
Simmer the chili uncovered or stir in a mixture of 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water to thicken.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Blend fresh tomatoes until smooth to use as a purée substitute.
Conclusion
This Wendy’s Chili copycat recipe is a versatile and heartwarming dish, perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. Whether you stick to the classic preparation or experiment with variations, this chili promises to deliver satisfaction in every bite.