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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.
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Ingredients Method Notes

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

Method
 

  1. tep 1: Brown the Ground Beef
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the ground beef and break it into crumbles using a wooden spoon.
  4. Cook for 7-10 minutes, or until browned and no longer pink.
  5. Drain excess fat and set the cooked beef aside.
  6. Step 2: Combine Ingredients
  7. In a large 6-quart pot, add the browned beef, tomato juice, and tomato purée.
  8. Stir in the beans, onion, celery, and bell pepper.
  9. Add all the seasonings and spices: chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, oregano, sugar, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  10. Mix everything together until fully combined.
  11. Step 3: Simmer the Chili
  12. Cover the pot with a lid and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
  13. Cook for 1 to 1 ½ hours, stirring every 15 minutes to prevent sticking.
  14. For the best flavor, let it simmer longer to allow the spices to meld.
  15. Step 4: Optional Slow Cooker Method
  16. Transfer the browned beef and all other ingredients to a slow cooker.
  17. 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.

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