Wendy’s Chili is a warm and hearty dish that brings comfort on chilly days. Made with ground beef, beans, and tomatoes, it offers a delicious balance of flavors and protein.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great because it’s easy to make and full of wholesome ingredients. Plus, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prep. You can enjoy it on its own or with your favorite toppings.
How to Make Wendy’s Chili
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, green onions
Directions:
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onions are translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for another minute to release the spices’ flavors.
- Add the drained kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary before serving. Garnish with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
How to Serve Wendy’s Chili
Serve your chili hot in bowls. You can add toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions for extra flavor. It goes well with cornbread or crackers too!
How to Store Wendy’s Chili
You can keep leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Wendy’s Chili
- Make sure to drain the beans to keep the chili from being too watery.
- If you like it spicy, add some chopped jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce.
- Letting the chili sit for a while enhances the flavors, so it can be made the day before.
Variation (If Any)
You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You can also use different beans like black beans or add bell peppers for extra veggies.
FAQs
Can I make this chili vegetarian? Yes, you can replace ground beef with lentils or meat substitutes and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How spicy is Wendy’s Chili? Wendy’s Chili has a mild spice level. You can adjust by adding more chili powder or hot sauce to suit your taste.
Can I add other ingredients? Absolutely! Feel free to add corn, bell peppers, or any other vegetables you like.