I don't know about you, but I have a deep appreciation for a hearty bowl of chili, especially on a cool, crisp day. Creating a big pot of it from scratch is a culinary joy I savor. In this post, I'm thrilled to share a recipe that will guide you through recreating Wendy's chili right in your own kitchen.
Now, you might wonder if Wendy's recipe is a closely guarded "top secret." There's a common belief that fast-food chains keep their multi-ingredient menu items under lock and key. In reality, most fast-food dishes can be replicated even by amateur home chefs, and Wendy's recipe is no exception.
The goal here is not just to mimic Wendy's recipe, but to elevate it. While Wendy's undeniably has a strong recipe for a fast-food chain, we have the opportunity to make something even better right here.
What's intriguing is that this recipe reminds me of the recipe my mom used to make when I was a kid. Mom's chili was always one of my all-time favorites, and finding something so reminiscent of hers is heartwarming.
Now, if you've explored similar recipes on other food blogs, you should know that I've made a few tweaks, or "hacks," to enhance the result:
- I opted for light red kidney beans over dark red kidney beans.
- I used chili beans instead of pinto beans (granted, chili beans are essentially pinto beans dressed up in a spicy sauce, but I believe it makes a difference!).
- I added a tad more cayenne pepper – 1/4 teaspoon to be exact – instead of 1/8 teaspoon. I enjoy mine with a bit of a kick, so if previous recipes left you wanting more flavor, this one should have the extra zing you're looking for.
Wendy’s Recipe Ingredients List
What I love about this recipe is that the full ingredient list can be found immediately in most kitchens.There’s nothing crazy you need to go out of your way to source here.
2 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 C chopped celery
1 46 oz bottle of tomato juice
1 29 oz can tomato sauce
1/4 C chili powder
2 tsp ground cumin
1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp white sugar
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
1 15 oz can light red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Wendy’s Chili Seasoning
If you wanted to just create a seasoning that you could add to any chili in order to give it a bit of a Wendy’s vibe, here’s what I’d recommend.
Combine and mix the following dry ingredients in a plastic bag or seasoning jar:
1/4 C chili powder
2 tsp ground cumin
1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp white sugar
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions
In a large pot over medium high heat, brown the ground beef along with the onion, bell pepper and celery. Drain after cooking and return to the pot.
Add the remaining ingredients to the pot, mix well and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 hours.
Many Ways To Savor This Recipe
Once you've masterfully whipped up this recipe, the fun truly begins with the many delectable ways to enjoy it:
- It's perfectly delightful just as it is, without any additional toppings.
- Elevate it by adding cheese, sour cream, crackers, or any other favorite chili accoutrements.
- Get creative – whip up a scrumptious chili mac by serving it over cooked elbow macaroni.
- Or you can place it atop a baked potato or in a bread bowl alongside cornbread, cheese, and sour cream.
- Indulge in chili dogs by generously topping your hot dogs with this mouthwatering dish and letting them crisp up under the broiler.
- Take it up a notch by incorporating it into a sandwich or quesadilla, infusing a classic meal with a burst of flavor and fun.
Really, if you can imagine it, you can make it.
Additional Modifications
While our primary aim is to create something akin to Wendy's chili, there's no rule that says you can't put your personal stamp on it. Here are a few modifications to consider to tailor your's to your specific tastes:
- Add extra kidney beans for a heartier meal and a fiber boost.
- Throw in some bacon or other meats to turn it into a dish that'll win everyone over.
- Experiment with additional ingredients like carrots, green beans, or other veggies to tweak the flavor profile.
- If you're into spiciness, consider incorporating jalapeños or other spices to kick things up a notch.
There's really no right or wrong way to do this recipe – though, let's be honest, there are some wrong ways. That said, there's an abundance of right ways to enjoy it. This copycat recipe serves as an excellent starting point for your culinary experiments, allowing you to explore countless variations and culinary adventures.
