Wendy’s Chili – Perfect for a Crisp Fall Day ❤️

Wendy’s Chili is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for those cool autumn days. With a mix of tender ground beef, beans, and a rich tomato-based broth, this chili is guaranteed to keep you warm and satisfied. It’s an easy, comforting recipe that will fill your kitchen with delicious smells and your belly with a hearty meal.

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 1/2 cups)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon white sugar (optional, for a slightly sweet balance)

Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Cook the Onion: Add the chopped onion to the beef and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
3. Season the Meat: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom and coat the meat.
4. Add the Liquids and Beans: Pour in the tomato juice, tomato purée, and drained beans. Stir everything together, ensuring the beans and meat are evenly distributed.
5. Simmer the Chili: Bring the chili to a simmer over medium-low heat. Allow it to cook for 30 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer you simmer, the more the flavors meld together.
6. Sweeten (Optional): Taste the chili and add the tablespoon of sugar if you prefer a slight sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and the spice. Stir to combine.
7. Serve: Once the chili has reached your desired thickness and flavor, serve it hot. Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, or chopped green onions if desired. Enjoy!

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories: ~350-400 kcal per serving (estimate)

History

Wendy’s Chili has become a beloved fast food comfort food, often praised for its hearty and flavorful nature. While the exact recipe remains a closely guarded secret by Wendy’s, the dish is often recreated by home cooks who want to enjoy its signature taste at home. This chili has a rich tomato-based broth, hearty beef, and a perfect balance of spices that make it satisfying on cool days.

Benefits

• High in Protein: The ground beef and beans provide a great source of protein, making this chili a filling and nutritious meal.
• Rich in Fiber: Beans are packed with fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you full longer.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spice level to your liking, adding more or less cayenne pepper, and even experimenting with different types of beans.

Conclusion

This Wendy’s Chili recipe is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a chilly day. The combination of ground beef, beans, and a rich tomato broth will warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or serving it at a gathering, this chili is sure to be a hit. Try it today and enjoy the cozy, delicious flavors!

Lovers of Comfort Food

If you’re a fan of rich, savory chili that hits all the right notes, this Wendy’s-inspired chili will become one of your go-to recipes. With its balance of spice, beans, and hearty beef, it’s a meal the whole family will love!