Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your soul and fills your kitchen with tantalizing aromas, then this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is just what you need! It’s one of those dishes that brings everyone together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a standout choice that even the pickiest eaters will love. Trust me, once you try this chili, you’ll want to keep it in your dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and minimal fuss, you can whip this up in no time.
• Family-friendly: This chili satisfies hungry bellies and pleases all ages with its delicious flavor.
• Make-ahead convenience: Cook a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—it’s even better the next day!
• Customizable toppings: Elevate your bowl with all your favorite toppings for a personalized touch.
• Hearty goodness: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is filling enough to keep everyone satisfied.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious chili. You probably have most of them in your pantry already!

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 add your favorite toppings:
* sour cream
* shredded cheddar cheese
* tortilla chips
* avocado slices

Variations

This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to make it your own! Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or zucchini for an extra nutritional boost.
• Make it spicier: Increase the amount of jalapenos or add fresh chopped cilantro for a fresh kick.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty plant-based version.

How to Make Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Warm the oil in a Dutch oven or large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-5 minutes until soft. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Then, toss in the garlic and ground chuck. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as you go. This step is essential because browning the meat adds depth to the flavor.

Step 2: Add Seasonings and Tomatoes

Reduce the heat to medium-low and add in the Italian seasoning, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, brown sugar, vinegar, crushed tomatoes, red kidney beans, black pepper, salt, diced jalapenos, and red pepper flakes. Mix everything well so that those spices can infuse into every bite!

Step 3: Simmer and Thicken

Let this mixture simmer for about 10 minutes—this allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together. Afterward, stir in the masa harina; this will help thicken your chili beautifully. Cook for another 10 minutes until you reach that perfect consistency.

Step 4: Serve It Up!

Now comes the best part! Serve your hearty chili hot with optional toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, tortilla chips, or avocado slices. Each topping adds its own flair—get creative!

Enjoy every comforting spoonful of this amazing Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe!

Pro Tips for Making Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

Making the perfect Texas Roadhouse Chili is all about those little touches that elevate your dish. Here are some pro tips to ensure your chili turns out delicious every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and spices can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your chili. Fresh herbs and spices pack a punch compared to their dried counterparts.

• Cook Low and Slow: Allowing your chili to simmer on low heat helps meld the flavors together beautifully. This patience pays off as it creates a richer, more complex taste.

• Adjust the Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with fewer jalapenos and red pepper flakes. You can always add more as it cooks, but it’s hard to tone down the heat once it’s in!

• Experiment with Beans: While kidney beans are traditional, feel free to mix in black beans or pinto beans for variety. Each type adds a different texture and flavor.

• Let It Rest: If you can resist diving in right away, let your chili sit for about 30 minutes after cooking. This resting period allows the flavors to deepen even further.

How to Serve Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

Serving your Texas Roadhouse Chili is just as important as making it! With some simple additions and pairings, you can create a delightful meal that will impress everyone at your table.

Garnishes

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess that complements the spiciness of the chili.
• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor and richness.
• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro brings a refreshing contrast that brightens up each bowl.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up all that savory chili goodness. Its sweet flavor pairs wonderfully with spicy dishes.

• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips not only add texture but also make a great vehicle for scooping up chili. They’re fantastic for dipping!

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad balances the hearty richness of the chili and adds freshness to your meal.

• Rice or Quinoa: Serving your chili over rice or quinoa transforms it into a filling main dish while adding another layer of nutrition.

With these serving suggestions and tips in hand, you’re all set to enjoy a warm bowl of Texas Roadhouse Chili that’s sure to be a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! Making a big batch means you’ll have hearty meals ready to go throughout the week. Here’s how to store and enjoy your chili later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• To prevent flavors from mixing, avoid storing toppings with the chili.

Freezing

• Portion the chili into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Leave some space at the top of containers or bags for expansion when freezing.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on high in 1-minute increments, stirring between each until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe:

Can I make this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or diced vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.

How do I spice up my Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?

To elevate the flavors, consider adding more jalapenos or red pepper flakes. You can also include chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky kick!

What toppings go well with Texas Roadhouse Chili?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices, and crushed tortilla chips. Feel free to get creative with your favorite toppings!

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

The total time for this recipe is approximately 55 minutes, making it a quick yet satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe as much as I do! It’s a comforting meal that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with friends at a gathering, this chili is sure to impress. Happy cooking!