Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is a beloved staple in my kitchen, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. There’s something about a steaming bowl of chili that brings everyone together, whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it at your next potluck. Trust me, once you try this hearty dish, you’ll be craving it all season long!

What makes this chili extra special is its rich flavor and the way it beautifully blends spices and wholesome ingredients. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, so you can whip it up without any fuss. Let’s dive into why this recipe will become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this chili comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy days.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: Everyone loves a warm bowl of chili! It’s mild enough for kids but still has that deep flavor adults crave.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers all week long.
• Customizable Goodness: Whether you like it spicy or mild, you can easily adjust the heat level to suit your taste.
• Nourishing Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber from beans and lean beef, this dish is satisfying and filling.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe uses simple, wholesome items that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chili

• 3 tablespoons canola oil
• 1 medium yellow or white onion (diced)
• 2 pounds ground chuck (or beef chuck, cut into 1/2-inch cubes)
• 2 tablespoons diced garlic
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning blend
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (Spanish paprika)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin seeds
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 2 (14 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
• 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans, drained
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/4 cup jalapenos (sliced and seeded)
• 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 2 tablespoons masa harina (or corn tortilla flour)

Optional Toppings

You can also add some fun toppings to elevate your chili:
* sour cream
* shredded cheddar cheese
* tortilla chips
* avocado slices

Variations

One of the best things about this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or corn for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more jalapeños or even some diced serrano peppers!
• Go vegetarian: Replace the meat with additional beans like black beans or chickpeas for a delicious meatless version.

How to Make Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by warming the oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced onion. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until soft—this step brings out their natural sweetness! Next, stir in the garlic and then add your ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.

Step 2: Add Your Spices & Tomatoes

Once your beef is perfectly browned, it’s time to build those flavors! Lower the heat to medium-low and toss in your Italian seasoning blend, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin seeds, brown sugar, vinegar, crushed tomatoes, beans, black pepper, salt, diced jalapeños, and red pepper flakes. Mix everything well so those spices coat every bit of meat and veggies.

Step 3: Simmer & Thicken

Let your chili simmer for about 10 minutes—this helps all those flavors meld together beautifully. Afterward, sprinkle in masa harina to thicken up your chili just right. Keep cooking for another 10 minutes until it’s thickened to perfection.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

When your chili looks inviting and smells divine, it’s time to serve! Ladle it into bowls and invite everyone to customize their servings with toppings like sour cream or avocado slices. Enjoy every hearty bite!

This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is sure to bring comfort and joy to your table—happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

Creating the perfect Texas Roadhouse Chili is all about embracing flavors and texture, so here are some tips to ensure your chili stands out!

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh onions, garlic, and spices whenever possible. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor profile and aroma of your chili, making it more enjoyable.

• Adjust spice levels: Don’t hesitate to tweak the amount of jalapenos or red pepper flakes according to your taste. This allows you to control the heat level, ensuring everyone can savor the dish comfortably.

• Let it simmer longer: For deeper flavors, consider letting your chili simmer for an additional 20-30 minutes. The longer cooking time melds the ingredients beautifully, resulting in a rich and hearty dish.

• Experiment with beans: While kidney beans are traditional, feel free to mix in black beans or pinto beans for added texture and flavor. This can give your chili a unique twist!

• Make it ahead of time: Chili often tastes better the next day! Prepare it a day in advance and let it sit overnight in the fridge. Reheating allows all those wonderful flavors to combine even further.

How to Serve Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

Serving your Texas Roadhouse Chili can be as fun as making it! Get creative with presentation and pairings that will delight your guests and family alike.

Garnishes

• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy texture that balances the spiciness of the chili perfectly.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Sprinkling shredded cheddar on top not only looks appetizing but also provides a rich, melty goodness.
• Chopped green onions: These add a refreshing crunch and a pop of color to your bowl of chili.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This classic pairing is perfect for soaking up every drop of chili. Its slightly sweet flavor complements the spiciness beautifully.
• Tortilla chips: Crispy tortilla chips offer a satisfying crunch and are great for dipping into the chili or topping off your bowl!
• Garden salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette dressing can balance out this hearty dish and provide a refreshing contrast.
• Rice: Serving chili over fluffy white rice adds a comforting element while absorbing all that delicious sauce, creating an extra filling meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe. Gather around with loved ones and savor every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Texas Roadhouse Chili recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store your delicious chili and keep it fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool down before portioning it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For easy use, consider freezing in single-serving portions.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also use a microwave: heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with your favorite plant-based protein or lentils, and ensure your broth is vegetable-based for a hearty vegetarian version.

How do I spice up my Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?

If you love heat, feel free to add more jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with adding diced green chilies or a splash of hot sauce for extra flavor!

What sides pair well with Texas Roadhouse Chili?

Classic side options include cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple garden salad. Pairing it with fresh avocado slices elevates the meal!

How long does this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe take to prepare?

The total time for this recipe is just about 55 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying option for dinner!

Can I use other types of beans in my Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?

Certainly! While red kidney beans are traditional, you can substitute with black beans or pinto beans if you prefer. Just be sure to drain them properly!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this hearty Texas Roadhouse Chili! Its rich flavors and comforting warmth make it a fantastic dish for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it up on game day or cozying up at home, this chili is sure to please. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!