If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful meal that brings the taste of Wendy’s famous chili into your kitchen, this recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with rich tomato sauce, beans, and seasoned ground chuck, this homemade chili is perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping meals for the week ahead. Plus, it freezes wonderfully, so you can enjoy it anytime.

Ingredients:

• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (15-ounce) can stewed tomatoes
• 5 (7-ounce) cans tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can ranch-style beans
• 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans
• 1 (12-ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes
• 1 (1.25-ounce) package McCormick mild chili seasoning
• 3 lbs ground chuck

Instructions:

1. Brown the Ground Chuck
   In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground chuck. Break it into smaller chunks as it cooks to ensure it browns evenly. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease to prevent the chili from becoming oily. Browning the meat is the foundation of flavor, so take your time to get a nice sear.
2. Prepare the Pot
   While the ground chuck is browning, get a large pot ready. This will hold the rest of your ingredients and allow everything to simmer and meld into the delicious chili you crave.
3. Add Canned Ingredients
   Once the ground chuck is cooked and drained, transfer it to the large pot. Now it’s time to add all the canned items, including the juice from the cans. First, add the stewed tomatoes, then follow with the tomato sauce, ranch-style beans, pinto beans, kidney beans, and Rotel diced tomatoes. Be sure to stir everything well after adding each ingredient to evenly distribute the flavors.
4. Add Vegetables
   Next, toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper. These veggies will soften as they simmer, adding a touch of sweetness and balancing the heartiness of the meat and beans. The onion will become tender and slightly translucent, while the bell pepper will add color and a subtle flavor to the chili.
5. Season It Up
   Sprinkle in the McCormick mild chili seasoning to give your chili the perfect blend of spices. This packet makes seasoning a breeze, providing just the right mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic, and other seasonings without any guesswork. Stir well to ensure the seasoning is fully integrated into the chili.
6. Simmer and Cook
   Now, it’s time to let the chili simmer. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the chili to simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer you let it cook, the more the flavors will come together. During this time, the onions and bell peppers will soften, and the chili will thicken to a rich, hearty consistency.
7. Serve and Enjoy
   Once the vegetables are tender and the chili has thickened, it’s ready to serve! Ladle the chili into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings—shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions are always great choices. You can also serve it with cornbread or crackers for a complete meal.
8. Freezing the Chili
   This chili recipe makes a large batch, perfect for freezing. Let the chili cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It freezes well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw and reheat for an easy meal.

Tips for the Best Chili:

• Adjust the Heat: This recipe calls for McCormick’s mild chili seasoning, but if you prefer a spicier version, feel free to use the hot chili seasoning or add some jalapeños, hot sauce, or cayenne pepper.
• Bean Substitutes: If you prefer different beans, you can easily swap the ranch-style, pinto, or kidney beans for black beans or another variety. You can also adjust the ratio of beans to suit your taste.
• Make It Ahead: This chili actually tastes better the next day, after the flavors have had time to fully meld together. Consider making it a day before serving for an even more flavorful meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Wendy’s-style chili recipe is the ultimate comfort food. It’s easy to make, uses pantry staples, and is customizable to suit your personal tastes. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, a game day gathering, or just to have a delicious meal ready in the freezer, this chili is sure to satisfy. The combination of tender ground chuck, flavorful beans, and rich tomato sauce makes every bite hearty and satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to make a big batch of food with minimal effort.