If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying dish that warms your soul, you’ve landed in the right place! This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is one of my go-to favorites for busy weeknights and cozy family gatherings. It’s rich, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients that everyone will love. The best part? You can whip it up easily while filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas that make everyone eagerly await dinner.

Chili has a special place in my heart, as it brings people together around the table. Whether you’re hosting game day or just want something comforting to enjoy on a chilly evening, this recipe will surely become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this chili comes together quickly, perfect for any skill level.
Family favorite: Packed with flavor and heartiness, everyone will rave about this dish, making it an instant hit at the dinner table.
Make-ahead convenience: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and let the flavors meld together.
Customizable: Easily tweak the spice levels or add your favorite toppings to make it uniquely yours!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking with simple, wholesome ingredients makes this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe not only delicious but also nourishing. Here’s what you need to gather:

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)

For Toppings (Optional)

Sour cream
Shredded cheddar cheese
Tortilla chips
Avocado slices

Variations

One of the best things about this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is its flexibility! You can adjust it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Add extra veggies: Throw in bell peppers or corn for added texture and sweetness.
Spice it up: If you love heat, increase the jalapeños or add fresh diced green chilies.
Make it vegetarian: Use lentils or additional beans to create a hearty meat-free 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! This step is crucial because sautéing brings out the onion’s natural sweetness. Then add in your garlic and ground chuck. Cook until browned while breaking apart the meat with a wooden spoon.

Step 2: Build Flavor

Once your meat is browned, reduce the heat to medium-low. Now it’s time to add all those fantastic seasonings: Italian seasoning blend, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, brown sugar, vinegar, crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, black pepper, salt, jalapeños, and red pepper flakes. Mix everything well; each ingredient plays a role in creating that deep chili flavor we all crave.

Step 3: Simmer and Thicken

Let your chili simmer for about 10 minutes. Afterward, mix in the masa harina—this will help thicken your chili beautifully. Cook for another 10 minutes until thickened to your liking. This step helps meld all those delicious flavors together while creating that perfect chili consistency.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Now comes my favorite part—serving it up! Ladle your chili into bowls and top with optional sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, crunchy tortilla chips, or creamy avocado slices. Gather around with loved ones and enjoy every hearty bite of this comforting dish!

I hope you find joy in making this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe as much as I do! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

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

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and spices enhance the flavor significantly. The quality of your ingredients can make a world of difference in taste!
Let it simmer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer builds depth in flavor. If you have time, let it cook for an extra 30 minutes; you’ll be rewarded with a richer, more complex dish.
Adjust spice levels: Be mindful of the jalapenos and crushed red pepper flakes. You can start with less and add more based on your heat preference, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys it.
Masa harina magic: This corn flour not only thickens the chili but also adds a delightful flavor. Don’t skip this step if you want that authentic touch!
Leftover love: Chili often tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together. Make extra and enjoy reheating it for easy meals later in the week!

How to Serve Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

Serving your Texas Roadhouse Chili can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ways to present this hearty dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances out the spices beautifully.
Shredded cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar on top for extra richness and a melty texture.
Avocado slices: Fresh avocado not only tastes great but also provides a lovely creamy contrast to the chili.

Side Dishes

Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is an excellent complement to spicy chili, providing a nice contrast in flavor and texture.
Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up chili or enjoying alongside as a crunchy side.
Garden salad: A simple garden salad with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette refreshes the palate between bites of hearty chili.
Rice or quinoa: Serving your chili over rice or quinoa makes it even more filling while offering additional textures and flavors.

Enjoy this delicious Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe with your chosen garnishes and sides, and watch everyone gather around for seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hearty meals throughout the week without a fuss. You can make a big batch and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze!

Storing Leftovers

Let the chili cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Label your container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

Divide the chili into portions and place them in freezer-safe bags or containers.
Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
Freeze for up to 3 months—just remember to label each bag with the date and contents!

Reheating

Thaw frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
For quick reheating, use the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

I know you might have a few questions about this delicious dish! Here are some common queries answered.

How can I make Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe spicier?

To add more heat to your Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe, increase the amount of jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also add diced serrano peppers or hot sauce to suit your taste preference!

Can I use ground turkey in this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll have a delicious chili that’s lighter but still full of flavor.

What are some side dishes that pair well with Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?

Texas Roadhouse Chili pairs wonderfully with cornbread, garlic bread, or even a simple green salad. For something heartier, serve it alongside tortilla chips or rice for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe as comforting and delicious as I do! It’s perfect for cozy nights at home or gatherings with friends and family. Enjoy making every pot of this flavorful chili—there’s nothing like sharing good food with people you love. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and laughter!