Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is just what you need! This recipe is a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. The rich flavors blend beautifully, making it a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up even after a long day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: This chili is packed with protein and beans, making it a satisfying meal that sticks to your ribs.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious dish bubbling away on the stove in no time.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze it for later!
• Customizable Toppings: The optional toppings let each person create their perfect bowl; think creamy sour cream or crunchy tortilla chips!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the flavors, and it’s an excellent way to introduce them to new tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients can make all the difference in creating that perfect bowl of chili. Don’t worry; these are simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your pantry or can find easily at any grocery store.

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

You can make this chili even more enjoyable with some added toppings:
* sour cream
* shredded cheddar cheese
* tortilla chips
* avocado slices

Variations

One of the best things about chili is how flexible it can be! Feel free to experiment with these variations to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option while keeping all those great flavors.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in bell peppers or corn for added texture and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add more jalapenos or some chopped serrano peppers.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute the meat with lentils or black beans for a hearty vegetarian 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 about 3-5 minutes until soft. Stir frequently! Then add the garlic and ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking apart the meat with a wooden spoon. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your chili.

Step 2: Combine All Ingredients

Reduce the heat to medium-low and add in your seasonings: Italian seasoning blend, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, brown sugar, vinegar, crushed tomatoes, drained kidney beans, black pepper, salt, jalapenos, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix everything together thoroughly. This blending of flavors is key to achieving that deep taste we all love!

Step 3: Simmer Away

Let this mixture simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes. Afterward, stir in masa harina; this will help thicken your chili beautifully. Allow it to cook for another 10 minutes until you’ve reached your desired thickness. Patience here pays off as those flavors deepen!

Step 4: Serve It Up!

Now comes the best part! Serve your delicious Texas Roadhouse Chili hot from the pot. Don’t forget to let everyone customize their bowls with sour cream, shredded cheese, tortilla chips, and avocado slices if they want! Each bite is sure to bring smiles all around.

Enjoy this warm bowl of comfort anytime you need a little extra love on your plate!

Pro Tips for Making Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

Making a hearty chili is all about the right balance of flavors and textures, so here are some pro tips to elevate your Texas Roadhouse Chili!

• Use high-quality meat: Choosing fresh, high-quality ground beef or chuck will enhance the overall flavor and texture of your chili, making it more delicious and satisfying.

• Let it simmer: Allowing your chili to simmer longer enhances its flavors. This process melds all the ingredients together and creates a rich, savory taste that’s hard to resist.

• Adjust spice levels: Don’t hesitate to tweak the amount of jalapenos and red pepper flakes according to your heat preference. A little extra spice can make your chili truly memorable!

• Experiment with beans: While kidney beans are traditional, you can mix in other varieties like black beans or pinto beans for different textures and flavors. This adds depth to your dish.

• Top it off: Garnishing with toppings like avocado slices or shredded cheese adds a creamy element that balances out the spiciness of the chili. These additions can also make your dish visually appealing!

How to Serve Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

Serving your Texas Roadhouse Chili is just as important as making it! Here are some ideas to present this delicious dish in style.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Freshly chopped green onions add a mild onion flavor and bright color that complements the richness of the chili.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream provides a cool, creamy contrast to the spicy chili, enhancing every bite.
• Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully on top, adding richness and an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: Sweet, moist cornbread is a classic companion for chili. Its subtle sweetness balances out the heat and makes for a comforting addition.
• Rice: Serving your chili over a bed of fluffy white rice absorbs excess sauce while adding texture. It’s filling and perfect for those who love heartier meals.
• Tortilla chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for dipping! They add texture and provide a fun way to enjoy every bite of your chili.
• Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw with a tangy dressing adds crunch and brightness, cutting through the richness of the chili for a well-rounded meal.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re well on your way to impressing family and friends with your homemade Texas Roadhouse Chili! Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the refrigerator and even gets better as the flavors meld together over time.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chili to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Let the chili cool down, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove excess air from bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it loosely, and heat in increments of 1-2 minutes until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

What makes this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe special?

This chili stands out due to its robust flavor profile, combining various spices like smoked paprika and cumin with hearty beans and tomatoes. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for gatherings and cold nights.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in the Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a lighter alternative that works well. Just ensure to adjust cooking times accordingly, as turkey may cook faster than beef.

How can I customize my Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?

Feel free to add more vegetables such as bell peppers or corn, or adjust the spice level by adding more jalapenos or hot sauce. You can also experiment with different types of beans!

Is this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This chili stores well in the fridge and freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prepping your week’s lunches or dinners.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe as much as I do! It’s not just a dish; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings people together. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night at home, it’s sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and savor every bite!