Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is a flavorful and hearty dish that’s perfect for any gathering. This chili brings together rich flavors with a touch of spice, making it a crowd favorite. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe will satisfy everyone at the table. Its unique blend of ingredients makes it stand out from ordinary chili recipes, ensuring that each bite is packed with deliciousness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe can be prepared in just under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: A combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a deep, satisfying flavor profile that warms your soul.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a standalone meal or pair it with toppings like sour cream and tortilla chips for added texture.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein from the beef and beans, this chili is sure to keep you full and satisfied.
- Freezable Leftovers: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for an easy meal later on.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the right tools on hand to simplify your preparation. Having the essential kitchen equipment will make your cooking experience more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven or large heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven or large heavy-bottomed pot: Provides even heat distribution, which is crucial for simmering the chili without burning.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware, ensuring everything is well mixed.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for dicing vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients
For the Base
- 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
For Seasoning
- 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
For the Chili Mixture
- 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
To Thicken
- 2 tablespoons masa harina (or corn tortilla flour)
Optional Toppings
- sour cream
- shredded cheddar cheese
- tortilla chips
- avocado slices
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Warm the oil in a Dutch oven or large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
- Add the onion and cook for 3-5 minutes until soft, stirring frequently.
- Add the garlic and ground beef; cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
- Reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Add Italian seasonings, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, brown sugar, vinegar, tomatoes, beans, black pepper, salt, diced jalapenos, and red pepper flakes.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
Step 3: Simmer the Chili
- Simmer for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Stir in masa harina to help thicken the chili.
- Cook for another 10 minutes or until desired thickness is achieved.
Step 4: Serve Your Chili
Serve hot topped with optional sour cream, shredded cheese, tortilla chips, or avocado slices as desired. Enjoy your homemade Texas Roadhouse Chili!
How to Serve Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Serving Texas Roadhouse Chili is an enjoyable experience. This hearty dish can be complemented with a variety of toppings and sides, making it even more delightful.
Top with Toppings
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spices.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar on top for a rich, cheesy flavor.
- Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado slices provide a creamy texture and healthy fats.
- Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside tortilla chips for a crunchy contrast.
Pair with Bread
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully, soaking up the chili’s flavors.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the dish and adds a savory touch.
Enjoy with Drinks
- Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of iced tea balances the heat of the chili.
- Sparkling Water: Light and bubbly sparkling water can cleanse the palate between bites.
How to Perfect Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Perfecting your Texas Roadhouse Chili takes some attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your recipe.
- Bold Flavors: Use fresh spices for maximum flavor impact in your chili.
- Simmer Longer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer helps meld the flavors beautifully.
- Adjust Spice Level: Taste as you go and adjust jalapenos or red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
- Add Sweetness: A hint of brown sugar balances out the acidity from tomatoes and beans.
Best Side Dishes for Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Texas Roadhouse Chili enhances the meal experience. Consider these delicious options.
- Cornbread: Soft and sweet cornbread is a classic companion, perfect for dipping into chili.
- Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad adds freshness and lightness to your meal.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw offers a cool contrast to the warm chili.
- Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice can help soak up any leftover sauce.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges add crunch and are great for dipping in chili.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred vegetables bring a smoky flavor that pairs well with chili.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Texas Roadhouse Chili can be delightful, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Bold seasoning mistakes: Using too few spices can lead to a bland chili. Ensure you measure ingredients accurately and adjust based on your taste.
- Bold not browning meat properly: Failing to brown the meat well can result in a less flavorful dish. Make sure to cook it until it’s nicely browned for the best flavor.
- Bold neglecting the simmer time: Skipping the simmering step may prevent flavors from developing fully. Allow enough time for all ingredients to meld together.
- Bold using the wrong beans: Using different types of beans can alter the taste and texture of the chili. Stick with red kidney beans for that classic chili experience.
- Bold forgetting to thicken: If your chili is too watery, it won’t have the right consistency. Incorporate masa harina as directed to achieve that perfect thickness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Let it cool completely before placing it in the fridge.
Freezing Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of the container as chili expands when frozen.
Reheating Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short increments, stirring in between, until heated through (about 3-5 minutes).
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot (about 10 minutes).
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe.
What makes this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe special?
This recipe captures the rich flavors of traditional Texas chili while avoiding pork products and gelatin, making it accessible and delicious for many.
How spicy is this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?
The spice level can be adjusted based on personal preference. You can add more jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Can I customize this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different beans or add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added flavor and texture.
How long does it take to prepare this chili?
The total time is approximately 55 minutes, including both prep and cooking times, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner.
Final Thoughts
This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. With its customizable options and rich taste, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy your own comforting bowl of chili!
Texas Roadhouse Chili
Experience the bold and comforting flavors of Texas Roadhouse Chili, a dish that brings warmth to any gathering. This hearty chili combines tender ground beef and savory beans, simmered with a medley of spices for a rich, satisfying meal. Perfect for game days or cozy nights in, this recipe stands out with its unique blend of ingredients that ensures each bite is bursting with flavor. Serve it on its own or topped with your favorite garnishes like sour cream and cheese for an unforgettable dining experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 medium yellow or white onion, diced
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 2 tablespoons diced garlic
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning blend
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked 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
- sour cream (optional)
- shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- tortilla chips (optional)
- avocado slices (optional)
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven, heat canola oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in garlic and ground beef, cooking until browned.
- Lower the heat and add Italian seasoning, chili powder, smoked paprika, crushed tomatoes, drained beans, jalapenos, brown sugar, vinegar, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Allow the chili to simmer for 10 minutes for the flavors to meld together.
- Stir in masa harina to thicken the chili and continue cooking for another 10 minutes until desired consistency is reached.
- Serve hot with optional toppings such as sour cream or shredded cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
