Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
The Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. With its rich blend of spices and tender meat, this chili stands out with a depth of flavor that is sure to please. Ideal for game days, family dinners, or potlucks, it offers comfort in every bite. This recipe captures the essence of traditional Texas chili while being easy to prepare and customize with your favorite toppings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: This chili features a robust mix of spices like cumin and smoked paprika that create an unforgettable taste.
- Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe can be made in under an hour, making it a quick weeknight meal.
- Versatile Serving: Enjoy it on its own or topped with sour cream, cheese, and more for a personalized touch.
- Family-Friendly: A delicious way to introduce kids to bold flavors without overwhelming spice levels.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and reheat for busy days or freeze leftovers for later enjoyment.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe perfectly, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and enhance your results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven or large heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Chef’s knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven or large heavy-bottomed pot: This tool ensures even heat distribution, which helps in browning the meat properly and simmering the chili evenly.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware; it also allows you to break meat apart easily while cooking.
- Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements are key in getting the spice balance just right for your Texas Roadhouse Chili.

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 Seasoning
- 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 Body
- 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
To Thicken
- 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 the Base
Warm the canola 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, stirring frequently. Then add the diced garlic and ground chuck. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Reduce heat to medium-low. Add Italian seasoning blend, chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin seeds, brown sugar, vinegar, crushed tomatoes, drained kidney beans, black pepper, kosher salt, sliced jalapenos, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well.
Step 3: Simmer
Simmer the mixture for about 10 minutes. Then add masa harina to help thicken the chili. Continue cooking for another 10 minutes or until desired thickness is reached.
Step 4: Serve
Serve hot with optional toppings such as sour cream, shredded cheese, tortilla chips, and avocado slices for added flavor and texture.
Enjoy your homemade Texas Roadhouse Chili!
How to Serve Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Serving Texas Roadhouse Chili is all about enhancing its rich flavors and making it a complete meal. Consider these suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Toppings
- Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy contrast and balances the spice.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melting cheese on top brings richness and enhances the chili’s flavor.
- Tortilla Chips – Crispy chips provide a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture of the chili.
- Avocado Slices – Fresh avocado adds creaminess and a refreshing element to each bite.
Bread Options
- Cornbread – Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with spicy chili, absorbing the flavors beautifully.
- Crusty Bread Rolls – Soft, crusty rolls are ideal for dipping into hearty bowls of chili.
Salad Pairing
- Garden Salad – A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the chili.
How to Perfect Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Perfecting your Texas Roadhouse Chili can take it from good to unforgettable. Here are some essential tips to enhance your dish.
- Use Quality Meat – Choose fresh ground beef for a richer flavor and better texture in your chili.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Modify the amount of jalapenos and red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference.
- Let It Simmer Longer – For deeper flavors, allow the chili to simmer more than 10 minutes before serving.
- Experiment with Beans – Try adding black beans or pinto beans for variety in taste and texture.
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.
- Cornbread – This sweet, fluffy bread is perfect for soaking up every drop of chili.
- Garlic Bread – Crispy garlic bread provides a savory complement to the spiced flavors of the chili.
- Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and balances out the hearty characteristics of chili.
- Baked Potatoes – Serve baked potatoes as a hearty alternative or topping base for your chili.
- Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf serves as a great base for spooning over chili, adding another layer of flavor.
- Mixed Vegetables – Steamed or roasted vegetables provide color and nutrition alongside your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing chili. Here are common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Bold Ingredients: Using the wrong type of meat can change the flavor. Stick to ground chuck or beef chuck for authenticity.
- Bold Over-Seasoning: Adding too much spice can overwhelm the dish. Measure carefully, especially with chili powder and cumin.
- Bold Skipping the Simmer: Not allowing the chili to simmer can result in underdeveloped flavors. Give it ample time to cook for the best taste.
- Bold Ignoring Consistency: Forgetting to thicken your chili may lead to a watery texture. Use masa harina as suggested for perfect thickness.
- Bold Neglecting Toppings: Serving without toppings can reduce enjoyment. Consider adding sour cream or avocado slices for extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
- Allow the chili to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway until heated thoroughly.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.
What makes this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe special?
This recipe features a rich blend of spices and quality meat, making it hearty and flavorful, perfect for gatherings.
Can I customize my Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.
How long does it take to make Texas Roadhouse Chili?
The total time is about 55 minutes, including preparation and cooking, making it a quick option for dinner.
What are good sides for Texas Roadhouse Chili?
Consider serving cornbread, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad alongside your chili for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe offers warmth and richness that everyone will love. It’s versatile enough for customization based on personal tastes. Try adding your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your family’s preferences!

Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Experience the bold flavors of this hearty Texas Roadhouse Chili, perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in. With a rich blend of spices and tender beef, this dish delivers comfort in every bite. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite toppings, it’s ideal for game days, family dinners, or potlucks. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of this classic chili recipe that brings everyone together.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 medium yellow or white onion (diced)
- 2 pounds ground chuck (or beef chuck, cut into cubes)
- 2 tablespoons diced garlic
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning blend
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked 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)
- sour cream
- shredded cheddar cheese
- tortilla chips
- avocado slices
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven or large pot, heat canola oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion for 3-5 minutes until softened; add garlic and ground beef, browning the meat thoroughly.
- Lower heat and mix in Italian seasoning, chili powder, smoked paprika, crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, and masa harina.
- Simmer for about 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and chili to thicken.
- Serve hot with optional toppings like sour cream or shredded cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg