Wendy’s Chili
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14–15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (10–12 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- ½ teaspoon sugar, optional
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil, for cooking
Instructions
- Brown the beef: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add the tomatoes and sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
- Add the beans: Stir in the kidney beans and pinto beans, being careful not to mash them.
- Season: Add the beef broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, paprika, black pepper, salt, and optional sugar. Stir everything together.
- Simmer: Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover partially and simmer for about 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust the consistency: If the chili becomes too thick, add a little more broth. If it is too thin, simmer uncovered for another 10–15 minutes.
- Taste and serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning. Let the chili rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Ideas
Top each bowl with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, sour cream, or diced jalapeños. It also pairs well with cornbread, crackers, or a simple green salad.
Make-Ahead Tip
Chili often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to blend. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days or freeze in individual portions for convenient meals.
