Wendy’s Inspired Chili Recipe
This Wendy’s-inspired chili recipe is the perfect dish to enjoy on a cool fall day. With tender beef, hearty beans, and a flavorful tomato base, this chili will warm you up and satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re serving it to friends and family at a fall gathering or enjoying a quiet night with a bowl of comfort, this recipe will surely be a hit. Make it your own by adjusting the spices and toppings, and be ready to experience the joy of a delicious homemade chili!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (16 ounces) kidney beans, undrained
- 1 can (16 ounces) pinto beans, undrained
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it's no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the cooked beef, chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until the onions and peppers are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), kidney beans (with their liquid), pinto beans (with their liquid), tomato sauce, and water to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Add the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, sugar, and cayenne pepper to the mixture. Stir to evenly distribute the spices.
- Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for at least 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer you simmer, the more the flavors will meld together.
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasonings, especially the cayenne pepper, to suit your preference for spiciness.
- Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese, chopped onions, sour cream, or your favorite chili toppings.