Wendy’s Chili is a beloved classic known for its hearty, savory flavor, packed with ground beef, kidney beans, and a rich tomato base. This homemade version of Wendy’s Chili is just as comforting and flavorful, with the perfect balance of spices, tender meat, and beans. Whether you enjoy it on its own, served over a baked potato, or topped with cheese and sour cream, this chili is perfect for a cozy meal any time of year. With easy ingredients and a simple preparation, you can make this fast food favorite right at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth (or water)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, tortilla chips

Directions:

1. Cook the beef: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the onion: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent.
3. Add the tomatoes and beans: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, kidney beans, and pinto beans. Mix well to combine.
4. Add the broth and seasonings: Pour in the beef broth and stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Simmer the chili: Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with optional garnishes like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or crumbled tortilla chips. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes:

• Adjust spice level: If you prefer a spicier chili, you can add a diced jalapeño pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper to increase the heat.
• Beans: If you’re not a fan of pinto or kidney beans, you can substitute with other beans, like black beans or garbanzo beans.
• Make-Ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezer-Friendly: This chili freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container, where it will keep for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Conclusion:

Wendy’s Chili is a comforting, flavorful dish that is easy to make at home and perfect for any occasion. With tender ground beef, hearty beans, and a rich tomato-based sauce, this chili is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or as a topping for baked potatoes, it’s sure to be a family favorite. Quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and full of flavor, this homemade version of Wendy’s Chili will satisfy your cravings for a delicious, hearty meal.