ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions
1. Brown the Meat:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef (or ground turkey) over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Sauté the Onion:
- Add the chopped onion to the pot with the browned meat and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Broth:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Season the Chili:
- Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to combine all the spices into the base of the chili.
5. Add the Beans:
- Stir in the kidney beans and pinto beans, making sure they are well distributed throughout the chili mixture.
6. Simmer the Chili:
- Reduce the heat to low, and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. For a deeper flavor, let it simmer for up to an hour. Stir occasionally to prevent the chili from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
7. Balance the Flavor:
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If the chili is too acidic, you can add a tablespoon of brown sugar to balance the flavors.
8. Serve:
- Serve the chili hot, garnished with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or chopped green onions.
Tips and Variations
- Meat Options: While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or even chicken for a leaner option. For a heartier chili, you can use a mix of meats, such as ground beef and ground sausage.
- Add Extra Veggies: Want to sneak in some extra vegetables? You can add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn to the chili for added texture and flavor.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the level of heat by adding more cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or chopped chili peppers. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and use a mild chili powder.
- Vegan Option: For a vegetarian or vegan version, you can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute, like lentils, textured vegetable protein, or crumbled tofu.
Why Wendy’s Chili is a Fall Favorite
Wendy’s chili has been a favorite for years, especially during the colder months. It’s comforting, satisfying, and packed with layers of flavor. The combination of ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and spices makes it a well-rounded meal that feels both hearty and wholesome. Whether you enjoy it on its own or pair it with a side of cornbread or crackers, this chili is the ultimate comfort food for fall.
This copycat recipe brings all of those beloved flavors straight to your kitchen. It’s easy to prepare, easy to enjoy, and perfect for serving a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. Plus, it’s the perfect make-ahead meal that gets even better as it sits, making it a great option for meal prepping or feeding a busy family.
Final Thoughts
As the weather cools down and you’re looking for a comforting dish to warm you up, Wendy’s Chili is a must-try recipe. With its perfect balance of spices, hearty beans, and rich meat base, this chili is the ideal comfort food for any crisp fall day. It’s simple, flavorful, and can be made in large batches, ensuring there’s plenty to go around.
So, the next time you’re craving something warm and hearty, give this Wendy’s chili recipe a try. It’s sure to become your go-to fall favorite, making chilly evenings just a little bit warmer and a lot more delicious!
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
