Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
The Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is the perfect dish for gatherings, game days, or cozy nights at home. This hearty chili brings a kick of flavor and warmth that will satisfy your cravings. With its rich blend of spices and tender meat, it’s a crowd-pleaser that can easily be customized with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or alongside cornbread, this recipe promises to impress at any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious chili simmering in no time.
- Rich Flavor: A blend of spices like smoked paprika and chili powder creates a deep, satisfying flavor profile.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it on its own or as a topping for nachos, baked potatoes, or hot dogs.
- Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings like avocado, cheddar cheese, or tortilla chips for extra texture and flavor.
- Feeding a Crowd: This recipe serves 8 people easily, making it ideal for parties or family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
For this chili recipe, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare your Texas Roadhouse Chili.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: Provides even heating and helps build flavor as ingredients cook down together.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware and breaking up the meat effectively.

Ingredients
For the Chili 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
The Flavor Makers
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning blend
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (Spanish paprika)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin seeds
For Sweetness and Acidity
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
The Heart of the Chili
- 2 (14 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans, drained
Seasoning It Just Right
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
For Extra Heat and Texture
- 1/4 cup jalapenos (sliced and seeded)
- 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Thickening Agent
- 2 tablespoons masa harina (or corn tortilla flour)
Optional Toppings
- sour cream,
- shredded cheddar cheese,
- tortilla chips,
- avocado slices, etc.
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables and Meat
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. Stir frequently. Then add the garlic and ground beef. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Reduce 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.
Step 3: Simmer and Thicken
Simmer for about 10 minutes. Then add masa harina to thicken the chili. Cook for another 10 minutes until it thickens.
Step 4: Serve Hot
Serve hot with optional toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, tortilla chips, and avocado slices.
Enjoy your flavorful Texas Roadhouse Chili!
How to Serve Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Serving Texas Roadhouse Chili is just as important as making it. A well-presented bowl of chili can elevate the dining experience. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions that complement the rich flavors of this hearty dish.
With Toppings
- Sour Cream – A dollop adds creaminess that balances the spiciness.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melting cheese on top brings a savory richness.
- Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips add texture and can also be used for dipping.
- Avocado Slices – Fresh avocado enhances flavor and provides a creamy contrast.
On a Bed of Rice
- White Rice – Serving chili over rice makes it more filling and absorbs flavors.
- Brown Rice – A healthier option that adds nuttiness to the dish.
In a Bread Bowl
- Sourdough Bread Bowl – Serve chili inside a hollowed sourdough loaf for an edible bowl that soaks up delicious flavors!
As a Dip
- Chili Dip – Use the chili as a dip during parties with tortilla chips or veggie sticks.
How to Perfect Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Perfecting your Texas Roadhouse Chili involves attention to detail and careful preparation. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience.
- Choose Quality Meat – Use fresh ground chuck or beef chuck for the best texture and flavor.
- Layer Flavors – Sauté onions and garlic until they’re fragrant before adding other ingredients for depth of flavor.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Taste as you go; feel free to increase or decrease jalapenos and red pepper flakes based on your spice tolerance.
- Let It Simmer – Allowing the chili to simmer longer melds all the flavors beautifully.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and spices make a significant difference in taste compared to dried ones.
- Experiment with Toppings – Don’t hesitate to try different toppings; they can change the whole experience!
Best Side Dishes for Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Texas Roadhouse Chili enhances your meal. Here are some excellent choices:
- Cornbread – Sweet, soft cornbread complements the spiciness of chili perfectly. Serve warm for added comfort.
- Coleslaw – The crunchiness and creaminess provide a refreshing contrast to spicy chili.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad – This vibrant salad adds sweetness and freshness, balancing flavors beautifully.
- Baked Potatoes – Fluffy baked potatoes serve as a hearty base, perfect for soaking up extra chili.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – A classic pairing that offers gooey goodness alongside each bowl of chili.
- Guacamole and Chips – Creamy guacamole serves as a cool counterpoint to spicy chili, while chips add crunch.
- Garlic Breadsticks – Soft, buttery breadsticks are great for dipping into your delicious bowl of chili.
- Steamed Veggies – Lightly seasoned steamed vegetables provide a healthy side option that complements any meal well.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Overcooking the meat: Make sure not to cook the beef too long before adding other ingredients. This can lead to tough, chewy meat. Brown it just enough to develop flavor.
- Ignoring spice levels: Not adjusting spices can make your chili too bland or too spicy. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings according to your preference.
- Skipping the simmering step: Failing to let the chili simmer can affect the flavors. Take time for the ingredients to meld together for a rich taste.
- Neglecting toppings: Toppings add texture and flavor. Don’t forget to add sour cream, cheese, or avocado slices for a delightful finish!
- Using low-quality canned goods: The quality of crushed tomatoes and beans matters. Choose high-quality canned products for better flavor.
- Forgetting about thickening agents: Leaving out masa harina can result in a watery chili. Always include this ingredient to achieve that perfect thickness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat chili in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe special?
This chili is hearty and flavorful, combining spices and fresh ingredients that create a rich taste reminiscent of classic Texas-style chili.
Can I customize this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?
Absolutely! Add different beans, vegetables, or adjust spices based on your taste preferences.
How should I serve my Texas Roadhouse Chili?
Serve it hot with optional toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, tortilla chips, or avocado for added flavor and texture.
Is this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for weekly meal prep.
What side dishes pair well with this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?
Consider serving cornbread, rice, or a fresh salad as sides that complement the chili beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on your tastes by adding different ingredients or toppings. Give it a try for your next gathering or cozy meal!
Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Indulge in the comforting warmth of Texas Roadhouse Chili, a flavorful dish that’s perfect for gatherings, game days, or cozy nights at home. This hearty chili features a rich blend of spices and tender beef, creating a satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone. With customizable toppings and versatile serving options, you can make this dish your own. Whether enjoyed on its own or served alongside cornbread, this chili recipe is designed to be both simple and delicious.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 pounds ground beef (or beef chuck)
- 2 tablespoons diced garlic
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning blend
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 2 cans crushed tomatoes (14 oz each)
- 2 cans red kidney beans (15 oz each), drained
- Jalapeños (sliced)
- Masa harina (for thickening)
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; cook until browned.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Mix in Italian seasoning, chili powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, vinegar, crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, jalapeños, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Allow to simmer for about 10 minutes then stir in masa harina to thicken the chili. Cook for an additional 10 minutes until desired thickness is reached.
- Serve hot with optional toppings like cheese or avocado slices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
