texas roadhouse chili recipe

Texas Roadhouse chili is a hearty, flavorful dish that delivers bold spices, tender beef, and just the right kick of heat. Known for its rich and smoky flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser that feels like true Southern comfort food.

This recipe brings the signature Texas Roadhouse style into your own kitchen, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game days. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a warm bowl ready in no time.

Whether topped with cheese, onions, or jalapeños, this chili is versatile, comforting, and always satisfying—just the way Texas Roadhouse intended.

Ingredients List

– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 preferred)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes with juice
– 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
– 2 cups beef broth
– 3 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for balance)
– Toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, jalapeño slices, sour cream, or cornbread on the side

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat the vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes to bloom the spices and deepen the flavor.

Step 4: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, kidney beans, pinto beans, and beef broth. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This allows flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.

Step 6: Taste and adjust seasoning. Add brown sugar if desired to balance acidity. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like cheese, sour cream, and fresh jalapeños.

Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings

Serves 6–8

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

Calories: 420
Carbs: 28g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 19g

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding extra broth if needed.

Pairings/Suggestions

Serve this Texas Roadhouse chili with warm cornbread, garlic bread, or baked potatoes. It also pairs well with tortilla chips, rice, or a fresh side salad. For a true restaurant-style experience, top with shredded cheddar and diced onions.

Seasonal Relevance

This chili is perfect for fall and winter months, offering warmth and comfort on chilly evenings. It’s also an excellent choice for game days, family gatherings, or casual weekend dinners when you want a filling and flavorful dish.

Health Benefits

This chili provides a good balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. The beans offer plant-based protein and dietary fiber to support digestion and heart health, while tomatoes provide antioxidants such as lycopene. Using lean ground beef or substituting with ground turkey can lower fat content. Spices like cumin and paprika add not only flavor but also anti-inflammatory benefits.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons

Easy to make with common ingredients

Requires a long simmer for best flavor

High in protein and fiber

Can be spicy for sensitive eaters

Feeds a crowd affordably

Contains beans, which some may not prefer

Customizable toppings for variety

Not ideal for very low-carb diets

Conclusion

Texas Roadhouse chili is a bold, hearty, and comforting dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your home kitchen. With its mix of smoky spices, tender beef, and beans, it’s a recipe that satisfies both hunger and taste buds.

Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or a big game day, this chili will quickly become a go-to favorite. Simple, flavorful, and endlessly customizable, it’s a dish that never disappoints.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Q2: Can I make it without beans?
Absolutely. Leave out the beans and add extra beef or vegetables to maintain the hearty texture.

Q3: How can I make this chili less spicy?
Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and opt for mild chili powder. You can also add a bit more tomato paste or sugar to balance the heat.