Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

The Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that warms the soul. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or cozy nights in, this chili stands out with its rich taste and robust ingredients. With a blend of spices and tender meat, it’s sure to be a hit at any occasion. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare while still delivering that classic chili flavor everyone craves.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Robust Flavor: The combination of spices, including smoked paprika and cumin, creates a depth of flavor that satisfies your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Customize your chili with toppings like avocado slices or tortilla chips for a personal touch.
• Feeding a Crowd: With eight servings, this recipe is perfect for parties or meal prep for the week ahead.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with beans and fresh veggies, this chili is not only delicious but also nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your cooking adventure, gather the necessary tools to make the process seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large heavy-bottomed pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large heavy-bottomed pot: Provides even heat distribution, essential for simmering the chili perfectly.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot and allows you to break apart the meat easily.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accuracy in your spice measurements for consistent flavor every time.

Ingredients

For the 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

For the Spices

• 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

For the Chili Mix

• 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

For Thickening

• 2 tablespoons masa harina (or corn tortilla flour)

Optional Toppings

• sour cream
• shredded cheddar cheese
• tortilla chips
• avocado slices

How to Make Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

Step 1: Sauté 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, stirring frequently. Then add the garlic and ground beef. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.

Step 2: Add Spices and Mix Ingredients

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the Italian seasonings, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, brown sugar, vinegar, crushed tomatoes, drained beans, black pepper, salt, diced jalapenos, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 3: Simmer and Thicken

Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. Afterward, add masa harina to help thicken the chili. Cook for another 10 minutes or until you achieve your desired thickness.

Step 4: Serve Your Chili

Serve hot in bowls topped with optional ingredients like sour cream, shredded cheese, tortilla chips, or avocado slices.

Enjoy this comforting Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe that’s packed with bold flavors!

How to Serve Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

Serving your Texas Roadhouse Chili is just as important as making it. The right accompaniments can elevate the meal and enhance the flavors of the chili. Here are some great serving suggestions.

Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the heat.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melty cheese on top adds richness and flavor.
• Sliced Avocado: Fresh avocado provides a cool, creamy texture that complements the chili.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips can be used for scooping or as a crunchy topping.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: A slice of cornbread is perfect for soaking up the chili’s rich sauce.
• Rice: Serve chili over a bed of fluffy rice for a heartier meal.
• Salad: A fresh salad can add a refreshing contrast to the warm chili.
• Pickled Jalapenos: For those who enjoy extra heat, pickled jalapenos bring a zesty punch.

How to Perfect Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

Perfecting your Texas Roadhouse Chili takes practice and attention to detail. Use these tips to enhance your recipe.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onion, garlic, and spices will bring out the best flavors in your chili.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Taste as you go! You can always add more chili powder or jalapenos for extra heat.
• Let It Simmer Longer: Allowing your chili to simmer longer helps develop deeper flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes if time allows.
• Experiment with Beans: While red kidney beans are traditional, try adding black beans or pinto beans for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Texas Roadhouse Chili can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Cornbread: Moist and slightly sweet, cornbread complements the spicy flavors of the chili beautifully.
2. Rice: White or brown rice serves as a great base to soak up all that delicious chili sauce.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the chili.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables provide color and nutrients alongside your dish.
5. Baked Potatoes: A baked potato topped with chili makes for a hearty variation on the classic dish.
6. Quesadillas: Cheese quesadillas can be a fun and cheesy addition that kids will love too.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe, there are a few common missteps that can lead to disappointing results.

• Bold seasoning choices: Over-seasoning can overpower the dish. Start with the recommended amounts and adjust to your taste gradually.
• Bold cooking temperature: Cooking on too high heat can burn ingredients. Always cook the onions and garlic on medium heat for optimal flavor.
• Bold ingredient substitutions: Using different beans or tomatoes can change the chili’s texture and taste. Stick to red kidney beans and crushed tomatoes for authenticity.
• Bold thickening methods: Adding masa harina too late can prevent proper thickening. Incorporate it during the simmering stage for the best results.
• Bold serving options: Forgetting toppings can make the chili less enjoyable. Consider garnishing with sour cream, cheese, or avocado for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

• Allow chili to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers and enjoy within 3 months for best flavor.

Reheating Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place chili in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer chili to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute increments until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour chili into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe.

How spicy is the Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?

The spice level is moderate due to jalapenos and red pepper flakes. Adjust these ingredients based on your preference for heat.

Can I make this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or use lentils for a hearty texture while maintaining flavor.

What can I serve alongside Texas Roadhouse Chili?

Pair this hearty chili with cornbread, rice, or tortilla chips for a complete meal experience.

How long does it take to make the Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 55 minutes.

Final Thoughts

The Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe offers a deliciously hearty meal perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and customizable toppings make it appealing to everyone. Feel free to adjust spices or add extra veggies to fit your taste!