Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and soul, then this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is just what you need! This hearty chili is a family favorite in my house—perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. The rich flavors and comforting warmth make it an ideal choice whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something delicious. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become one of your go-to meals!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This chili comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for those nights when you need something tasty without too much fuss.
• Family-Friendly: With its mild spice and rich flavor, even the pickiest eaters will come back for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can whip up a big batch ahead of time and reheat it for an easy meal later.
• Versatile Toppings: Top with your favorites like sour cream or avocado to customize every bowl!
• Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with protein and beans, this dish is sure to fill you up and keep you warm.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful chili. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store!

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

These toppings are completely optional but make the chili even more delicious:
* sour cream
* shredded cheddar cheese
* tortilla chips
* avocado slices

Variations

This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to change it up:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or corn for extra nutrients and color.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce!
• Make it vegetarian: Replace meat with extra beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.

How to Make Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Warm the oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-5 minutes until soft. Stir frequently to avoid burning. This step helps release the natural sweetness of the onions. Next, toss in the garlic and ground beef, cooking until browned. Breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Add the Spices and Tomatoes

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Now it’s time to add all those wonderful seasonings! Stir in the Italian seasoning blend, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, brown sugar, vinegar, crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black pepper, salt, jalapeños, and red pepper flakes. Mix well! Each ingredient adds its own special flavor that creates that signature chili taste we love.

Step 3: Simmer and Thicken

Let this mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes. Then add masa harina to thicken things up just right! This ingredient not only enhances texture but also adds a lovely corn flavor. Cook for another 10 minutes until your chili reaches that perfect thick consistency.

Step 4: Serve Up Some Comfort

It’s finally time to serve! Ladle your delicious Texas Roadhouse Chili into bowls and let everyone pile on their favorite toppings—sour cream, shredded cheese, crunchy tortilla chips, or creamy avocado slices are all great choices. Enjoy every hearty bite!

With this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe in your repertoire, you’re ready to impress family and friends alike! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

Making a delicious chili is all about the little details, and I’m here to help you get it just right!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices have more flavor than pre-ground ones. If possible, grind your cumin seeds before adding them to the chili for an aromatic boost.

• Adjust the heat: If you’re unsure how spicy you want your chili, start with fewer jalapenos and red pepper flakes. You can always add more later! This allows you to customize the heat level to your preference.

• Let it sit: Allowing your chili to rest for about 30 minutes after cooking enhances the flavors as they meld together. This small step can make a big difference in taste!

• Experiment with beans: While red kidney beans are traditional, feel free to mix in black beans or pinto beans for a different texture and flavor profile. Variety keeps things exciting!

• Make it ahead: Chili often tastes even better the next day! Consider making a batch in advance and storing it in the fridge or freezer for easy meals later on.

How to Serve Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

Serving this hearty chili is as fun as making it! Whether you’re hosting a game night or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, there are plenty of ways to present this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: These add a fresh crunch and vibrant color that brightens up each bowl.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the spiciness while adding a creamy texture.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melting cheese over hot chili not only enhances flavor but also creates a comforting finish.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Sweet, fluffy cornbread pairs perfectly with chili, soaking up all those rich flavors. It’s a classic combo that’s hard to resist!
• Tortilla chips: Serve alongside for some delightful crunch. They’re great for dipping into your chili or simply snacking on.
• Rice: A bowl of warm rice can be served under the chili or on the side, providing a filling base that complements its heartiness.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the chili, making each bite enjoyable.

Now that you have all these tips and serving ideas, your Texas Roadhouse Chili will surely impress family and friends alike! Happy cooking!

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 or save it for later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool down before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Leave some space at the top, as the chili will expand when frozen.
• It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months—just remember to label it!

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

How do I make Texas Roadhouse Chili?

To make Texas Roadhouse Chili, you’ll need ingredients like ground beef, tomatoes, beans, and spices. Follow our detailed instructions above for a hearty and flavorful dish.

Can I use turkey instead of beef in this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter option while still providing plenty of flavor. Just be mindful of cooking times as turkey may cook faster.

What toppings go well with Texas Roadhouse Chili?

Popular toppings include sour cream, shredded cheese, avocado slices, and tortilla chips. Feel free to customize with your favorites!

How can I make my Texas Roadhouse Chili spicier?

You can add more jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes according to your spice preference. Additionally, consider using hotter varieties of chili powder.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe as much as I do! It’s not only hearty and full of flavor but also perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy night in or serving it at a gathering, this chili is sure to impress. Happy cooking!