Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that warms you up from the inside out, I have just the thing: my beloved Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe. This chili is a family favorite that brings everyone together around the dinner table. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy gatherings with friends, or game days when you want something satisfying and delicious. Plus, it’s easy to make and packed with flavor!
What makes this recipe truly special is its rich blend of spices and wholesome ingredients. Each spoonful delivers warmth and comfort, making it a go-to during chilly months or whenever you need some extra love in your life.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have this scrumptious chili ready in under an hour.
- Family-friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this flavorful dish, making it a hit for all ages at the dinner table.
- Make-ahead convenience: This chili keeps well in the fridge and even tastes better the next day, so feel free to whip up a big batch!
- Customizable flavors: You can easily adjust the spice level or add in your favorite toppings to suit everyone’s taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need
This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything you’ll need for this delightful dish!
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 add an extra layer of flavor and texture:
* Sour cream
* Shredded cheddar cheese
* Tortilla chips
* Avocado slices
Variations
One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it to match your preferences or use what you have on hand.
- Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
- Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
- Spice it up: If you like heat, consider adding more jalapeños or some diced serrano peppers.
- Go vegetarian: Replace ground meat with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Warm the oil in a Dutch oven or large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-5 minutes until they soften. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Once they are translucent, add the garlic along with the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking apart the meat with a wooden spoon. This step builds a flavorful base for your chili.
Step 2: Add Spices and Tomatoes
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Now it’s time to infuse those rich flavors! Add in your Italian seasonings, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, brown sugar, vinegar, crushed tomatoes, drained beans, black pepper, salt, sliced jalapeños, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix everything well to ensure every ingredient combines harmoniously.
Step 3: Simmer and Thicken
Let your chili simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully. Afterward, sprinkle in masa harina while stirring—it helps thicken your chili to that perfect consistency. Cook for another 10 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
Step 4: Serve It Up!
Now comes the best part—serving! Ladle out generous portions into bowls and let everyone customize their bowls with optional toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, tortilla chips, or creamy avocado slices. Enjoy each bite of this comforting Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe with your loved ones!
With these easy-to-follow steps and delightful flavors, you’ll find yourself making this chili again and again!
Pro Tips for Making Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Making the perfect Texas Roadhouse Chili is all about layering flavors and ensuring the right texture. Here are some tips to elevate your chili game!
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Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and spices can significantly enhance the flavor of your chili, making it more aromatic and delicious.
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Brown the meat well: Taking the time to brown your ground chuck thoroughly adds depth to the dish, creating a rich flavor base that will make your chili irresistible.
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Let it simmer longer: The longer you allow your chili to simmer, the better the flavors meld together. Aim for at least 30 minutes if you have the time!
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Adjust spice levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of jalapenos and red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. A little extra spice can give your chili that perfect kick!
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Experiment with toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings! Adding unique garnishes can change the whole dining experience and make each bowl special.
How to Serve Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Serving your Texas Roadhouse Chili with care turns a simple meal into a delightful experience. Here are some ideas to present this hearty dish beautifully.
Garnishes
- Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances out the spices beautifully.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar on top for a melty, savory finish that complements the chili perfectly.
- Fresh cilantro or green onions: These fresh herbs not only add color but also bring a burst of freshness that brightens up each bite.
Side Dishes
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Cornbread: Soft, slightly sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with chili, providing a great contrast in flavors and textures.
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Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips make for an excellent accompaniment; they can be used for dipping or crumbling over the chili as an added texture.
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Rice: Serving your chili over a bed of fluffy rice can help soak up all that delicious sauce while adding a comforting touch.
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Coleslaw: A light, tangy coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch that balances out the richness of the chili, making it a perfect side dish.
With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll be ready to impress family and friends with your homemade Texas Roadhouse Chili. Enjoy every flavorful spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is perfect for meal prep! It saves time during the week and tastes even better after the flavors have had a chance to meld. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your chili.
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 placing it in freezer-safe containers.
- Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- Alternatively, use a microwave, heating in 1-minute increments until warm.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about this delicious recipe!
How can I make Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version of this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe, simply substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or additional beans like black beans or pinto beans. Adjust seasonings as needed for flavor.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?
Absolutely! You can modify the heat level by adding more or fewer jalapeños and red pepper flakes according to your taste preference. For a milder chili, omit these spicy ingredients entirely.
What toppings go well with Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?
Popular toppings include sour cream, shredded cheese, tortilla chips, and fresh avocado slices. Feel free to get creative and add your favorites!
Final Thoughts
This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is not only hearty and flavorful, but it also brings warmth and comfort to any meal. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to satisfy. Happy cooking!
Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
If you’re searching for a comforting and hearty dish that brings everyone together, look no further than this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this chili is packed with bold flavors and wholesome ingredients. With its rich blend of spices and the option to customize it to your taste, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a family favorite. Easy to prepare in under an hour, you’ll find yourself making this savory beef chili again and again. Each bowlful is not only satisfying but also warms you from the inside out, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings or game-day feasts. Gather your loved ones and enjoy a delightful meal that’s sure to impress!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- 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 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
- 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
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven, heat canola oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and ground chuck, cooking until browned.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, then add Italian seasoning, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, brown sugar, vinegar, crushed tomatoes, drained beans, jalapeños, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Simmer for 10 minutes before stirring in masa harina to thicken the chili. Continue cooking for another 10 minutes.
- Serve hot with desired toppings such as sour cream or shredded cheddar cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg