Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for game days, family gatherings, or cozy nights at home. This chili stands out with its rich blend of spices and tender beef, delivering a taste that rivals your favorite steakhouse. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly evening or impress guests with your cooking skills, this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is sure to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices like smoked paprika and cumin creates a robust flavor that you won’t forget.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly yet rewarding.
- Versatile Toppings: Customize each bowl with toppings such as sour cream or shredded cheese for added richness.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Serve it at parties, family dinners, or simply enjoy it on a quiet night in.
- Filling and Hearty: This chili is packed with protein and fiber, making it a satisfying meal.

Tools and Preparation
To make the Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Preparing everything beforehand will ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven or large heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Can opener
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven or large heavy-bottomed pot: Ideal for even heat distribution when simmering the chili.
- Wooden spoon: Great for breaking apart the meat without scratching your cookware.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently.
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 Main Components
- 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: Cook the Onions and Beef
Warm the oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for about 3–5 minutes until they become soft. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Next, add the minced garlic and ground chuck. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
Step 2: Add Seasonings and Simmer
Reduce heat to medium-low. Add Italian seasoning, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin seeds, brown sugar, vinegar, crushed tomatoes, drained beans, black pepper, kosher salt, sliced jalapenos, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 3: Thicken the Chili
Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes. After that time has passed, add masa harina to help thicken the chili. Continue cooking for another 10 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
Step 4: Serve Your Chili
Spoon your flavorful Texas Roadhouse Chili into bowls. Top each serving with optional garnishes like sour cream, shredded cheese, tortilla chips, or avocado slices as desired. Enjoy!
How to Serve Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Serving Texas Roadhouse Chili is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various toppings and sides. This dish is hearty and flavorful on its own, but adding a few extras can elevate the meal to new heights.
Toppings
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the heat of the chili.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar on top for a melty, savory finish.
- Tortilla Chips: Crispy tortilla chips provide a satisfying crunch and are perfect for dipping.
- Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado slices add a creamy texture and a hint of freshness to your bowl.
Accompaniments
- Cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread complements the chili’s flavors beautifully and is great for soaking up every drop.
- Rice: Serving chili over rice makes it even heartier and is a wonderful way to stretch the meal.
- Green Salad: A crisp green salad provides a fresh contrast to the rich chili.
How to Perfect Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Perfecting Texas Roadhouse Chili requires attention to detail and some personal flair. Here are some tips to make your chili stand out.
- Seasonings: Use fresh spices for a more robust flavor. Consider adjusting the amounts based on your taste.
- Quality Meat: Choose high-quality ground beef or chuck for better texture and taste. Feel free to mix in different cuts for variety.
- Simmer Longer: Letting the chili simmer for longer deepens the flavors, making every bite more delicious.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer thicker chili, add more masa harina or let it simmer uncovered longer.
Best Side Dishes for Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
Pairing side dishes with Texas Roadhouse Chili can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Cornbread: Sweet or savory, cornbread is a classic complement that pairs well with any chili.
- Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavor of the chili.
- Garlic Bread: Soft garlic bread is perfect for mopping up leftover chili from your bowl.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese adds comfort and richness to your meal.
- Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with chili for a hearty twist on traditional toppings.
- Fried Pickles: Crunchy fried pickles offer a zesty bite that pairs well with the spice in the chili.
- Grilled Veggies: Lightly seasoned grilled vegetables add color, flavor, and nutrition to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can alter the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Overcooking the meat: Cooking the ground beef too long can make it tough. Brown it just until cooked through for a tender texture.
- Skipping the simmering step: Not allowing the chili to simmer lets flavors remain flat. Simmer for at least 10 minutes to deepen flavors.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Every ingredient varies in strength. Always taste and adjust seasonings like salt and spice levels before serving.
- Using low-quality tomatoes: Cheap canned tomatoes can affect taste. Opt for high-quality crushed tomatoes for a richer flavor and texture.
- Neglecting toppings: Toppings add extra flavor and texture. Don’t skip out on options like cheese, avocado, or sour cream to enhance your chili experience.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover chili in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Chili can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a lid, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about this comforting dish.
How can I customize the Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe?
You can easily customize this recipe by adding more vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or adjusting spices according to your taste preferences.
What is the best way to serve Texas Roadhouse Chili?
Serve it hot with your choice of toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or tortilla chips for added crunch.
Can I make Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe in advance?
Yes! This chili tastes even better the next day after all the flavors meld together. You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.
Is Texas Roadhouse Chili suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This hearty chili is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats easily, making it great for busy weeknights.
Final Thoughts
The Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is a deliciously hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy its rich flavors!

Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the rich, hearty flavors of this Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe that’s perfect for game days, family gatherings, or cozy nights in. With tender beef simmered in a robust blend of spices, this chili delivers a taste reminiscent of your favorite steakhouse. It’s easy to prepare and customizable with a variety of toppings, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or impressing guests, this comforting chili is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 2 pounds ground chuck
- 2 tablespoons diced garlic
- 2 (14 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans
- 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
- 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 (optional)
- shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- tortilla chips (optional)
- avocado slices (optional)
Instructions
- Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté onions for 3–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and ground chuck; cook until beef is browned.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in spices, crushed tomatoes, beans, black pepper, salt, jalapenos, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Simmer for about 10 minutes. Then add masa harina to thicken and continue cooking for another 10 minutes.
- Serve hot with desired toppings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Texan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Customize by adding vegetables like bell peppers or corn. Adjust seasoning according to your spice preference. This chili tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together.