Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort to busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a cherished favorite in our home. Each spoonful is packed with warmth, making it perfect for chilly evenings or when you want something satisfying and delicious.
This chili isn’t just about flavor; it’s also super easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a big family or just yourself, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for any occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this chili comes together easily, making it perfect for any home cook.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with everyone! The bold flavors appeal to kids and adults alike.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for later—just reheat and enjoy!
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices creates a robust taste that will leave your taste buds dancing.
- Customizable: Feel free to tweak the ingredients based on what you have on hand—there’s room for creativity!

Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this Texas Roadhouse Chili is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. 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
Feel free to top your chili with any of these delicious options:
* Sour cream
* Shredded cheddar cheese
* Tortilla chips
* Avocado slices
Variations
One of the best things about this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is how flexible it is! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs.
- Swap the protein: If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Add more veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or corn for an extra dose of nutrition and color.
- Spice it up: If you love heat, add more jalapenos or even some fresh chopped chili peppers to amp up the spice level.
- Make it vegetarian: Use plant-based crumbles instead of meat and substitute vegetable broth for an equally delicious version.
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Warm the oil in a Dutch oven or large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes until soft. Stir frequently so they don’t brown too much. After that, toss in the garlic and ground beef. Cook until the meat is browned while breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This step is essential as sautéing helps bring out the flavors of both onions and garlic.
Step 2: Add Seasonings and Simmer
Now it’s time to reduce the heat to medium-low. Add all those wonderful seasonings: Italian seasoning blend, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, brown sugar, vinegar, crushed tomatoes, beans, black pepper, salt, diced jalapenos, and red pepper flakes. Mix everything well! Simmer this mixture for about 10 minutes so all those beautiful flavors meld together.
Step 3: Thicken the Chili
After simmering, sprinkle in the masa harina. This will help thicken your chili nicely. Continue cooking for another 10 minutes until your chili reaches that perfect thick consistency we all love.
Step 4: Serve It Up!
Now comes the best part—serving! Ladle your hearty chili into bowls and let everyone top theirs with sour cream, shredded cheese, tortilla chips, avocado slices—whatever tickles their fancy! Enjoy every warm bowlful with family or friends.
And there you have it—a delightful Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen! Happy cooking!
Pro Tips for Making Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Making chili is all about the little details that turn it from good to great! Here are some tried-and-true tips to ensure your Texas Roadhouse Chili is a hit every time.
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Use fresh spices: Fresh spices have a more vibrant flavor. Opt for whole spices and grind them just before use for an extra layer of depth in your chili.
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Brown the meat well: Don’t rush this step! Properly browning the meat adds a rich, savory flavor that forms the foundation of your chili.
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Adjust the heat: Spice levels can vary widely. Taste your chili as it simmers and adjust the jalapeños or red pepper flakes according to your preference.
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Let it rest: If you can resist, let your chili sit for at least 30 minutes after cooking. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Make it ahead: Chili often tastes better the next day! Consider making a big batch and storing leftovers in the fridge for an easy meal later on.
How to Serve Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Serving Texas Roadhouse Chili is all about creating a cozy atmosphere where everyone can enjoy this hearty dish together. Here are some ideas to make your serving experience delightful!
Garnishes
- Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances out the spice.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Sprinkle some cheese on top for a delicious melty finish.
- Sliced green onions: Fresh green onions bring a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the chili beautifully.
Side Dishes
- Cornbread: This sweet and buttery bread pairs perfectly with chili, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
- Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are great for dipping and add an extra texture to each bite.
- Simple side salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the hearty chili.
- Rice or quinoa: Serve over cooked rice or quinoa for a filling meal that stretches your servings even further.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Texas Roadhouse Chili! Whether it’s game day or just a cozy night in, this dish is sure to bring smiles around the table. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it also makes for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
- Portion chili into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
- Leave some space at the top of the container or bag for expansion as it freezes.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe dish, covered loosely, until hot.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!
How do I make Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe vegetarian?
You can substitute ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles or cooked lentils. Adjust seasoning as needed for flavor.
Can I use other beans in my Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with black beans, pinto beans, or even white beans based on your preference.
What toppings work well with Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?
Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, and crunchy tortilla chips. Choose your favorites!
How spicy is Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?
The spiciness can be adjusted by adding more or less jalapeños and crushed red pepper flakes. Taste as you go!
Is Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use masa harina that does not contain gluten. Always check labels if you’re sensitive!
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this hearty Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that brings family and friends together. Don’t hesitate to make adjustments to suit your taste—after all, cooking should be fun! Happy cooking!
Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
If you’re searching for a warm and comforting dish, this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is just what you need! Packed with robust flavors and hearty ingredients, this chili is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Each bowlful offers a delightful combination of spices, tender beef, and nutritious beans that will satisfy your cravings and warm your soul. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and can easily be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a solo dinner, this chili will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Get ready to dive into a delicious experience!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Texan
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 pounds ground beef (or turkey)
- 2 tablespoons diced garlic
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 (14 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans (drained)
- Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, tortilla chips, avocado slices
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and ground beef; cook until browned.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and add chili powder, smoked paprika, crushed tomatoes, beans, and seasonings. Mix well and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Sprinkle in masa harina to thicken the chili; continue cooking for another 10 minutes until desired consistency is reached.
- Serve bowls of chili hot with optional toppings.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
