If you love Wendy’s iconic chili but don’t have time to head to the restaurant, this homemade version brings the same hearty, flavorful comfort straight to your kitchen. With tender ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a rich blend of spices, this chili is cozy, filling, and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for cold nights, meal prep, or game days, it tastes just like the real thing — maybe even better.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s the ultimate comfort food for chilly weather. Wendy’s chili is famous for its thick texture, slow-cooked flavor, and just the right amount of heat. This homemade version uses simple pantry ingredients and comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 celery stalk, chopped
1 (29-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (29-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
1 (15-ounce) can red kidney beans, drained
1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained
2 cups beef broth (or water)
3 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar (to balance acidity)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and crumbly. Drain off any excess fat.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and celery to the pot. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Beans
Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), kidney beans, and pinto beans. Mix well to combine.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Pour in the beef broth, then add chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, pepper, cayenne, vinegar, and sugar. Stir thoroughly. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings — shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or saltine crackers.
Tips for the Best Wendy’s-Style Chili
Use lean ground beef to keep it hearty but not greasy.
Let it simmer longer for richer flavor — it only gets better with time.
Make it ahead of time and refrigerate overnight; the flavors deepen beautifully by the next day.
Add a touch of hot sauce or diced jalapeño if you like more heat.
Variations
Turkey Chili: Swap ground beef for lean ground turkey for a lighter version.
Vegetarian Chili: Omit the meat and use extra beans or lentils for a plant-based option.
Slow Cooker Chili: Brown the beef first, then combine everything in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Spicy Southwest Chili: Add corn, black beans, and chipotle powder for a smoky, spicy twist.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
FAQ
Can I use canned chili beans instead of kidney and pinto beans?
Yes, but note that chili beans are usually seasoned, so reduce the added salt and spices slightly.
How can I make this chili thicker?
Simmer uncovered for a bit longer or mash some of the beans with a spoon to naturally thicken it.
Is this chili spicy?
It’s mildly spicy, similar to Wendy’s. For more heat, increase the cayenne or add diced jalapeños.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Absolutely. This recipe scales beautifully — just use a large enough pot and adjust seasoning to taste.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 340 kcal
Protein: 25 g
Fat: 15 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fiber: 7 g
Sodium: 680 mg
Conclusion
Homemade Wendy’s Chili is everything you love about the fast-food favorite — warm, hearty, and full of rich, savory flavor — but even better made from scratch. With its balance of spices, beefy goodness, and tender beans, this chili is perfect for cozy nights or make-ahead meals. Serve it with crackers or cornbread, and you’ve got the ultimate bowl of comfort.