When the craving strikes for a warm, hearty, and flavorful bowl of chili, Wendy’s iconic recipe comes to mind. This homemade version captures the essence of the original—rich, comforting, and packed with delicious ingredients. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, game day, or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- Protein and Base
- 2 pounds fresh ground beef
- 1 quart tomato juice
- 1 29-ounce can tomato purée
- Beans and Vegetables
- 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)
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
- Seasonings and Spices
- 1/4 cup chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional
Instructions
- tep 1: Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and break it into crumbles using a wooden spoon.
- Cook for 7-10 minutes, or until browned and no longer pink.
- Drain excess fat and set the cooked beef aside.
- Step 2: Combine Ingredients
- In a large 6-quart pot, add the browned beef, tomato juice, and tomato purée.
- Stir in the beans, onion, celery, and bell pepper.
- Add all the seasonings and spices: chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, oregano, sugar, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Mix everything together until fully combined.
- Step 3: Simmer the Chili
- Cover the pot with a lid and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
- Cook for 1 to 1 ½ hours, stirring every 15 minutes to prevent sticking.
- For the best flavor, let it simmer longer to allow the spices to meld.
- Step 4: Optional Slow Cooker Method
- Transfer the browned beef and all other ingredients to a slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, stirring occasionally.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Take your chili experience to the next level with these tasty accompaniments: Toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or sliced jalapeños.
Sides: Cornbread, oyster crackers, tortilla chips, or crusty bread.
Pairings: Serve over baked potatoes, rice, or use as a topping for nachos or hot dogs.
Take your chili experience to the next level with these tasty accompaniments: Toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or sliced jalapeños.
Sides: Cornbread, oyster crackers, tortilla chips, or crusty bread.
Pairings: Serve over baked potatoes, rice, or use as a topping for nachos or hot dogs.