This hearty Texas Roadhouse Chili is packed with juicy ground beef, beans, and a mix of tasty spices that will warm you right up. It’s the perfect comfort food for chilly days!
Making this chili is fun! I love how easy it is to whip up a big batch, and it always disappears quickly. Serve it with cornbread for extra yum! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Chuck is ideal for chili due to its flavor and fat content. If you want a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a vegetarian twist, use lentils or a mix of beans.
Beans: Kidney beans are classic here. If you prefer, you can swap them with black beans or pinto beans. Just make sure to rinse them for better flavor and texture!
Spices: Chili powder is the star! If you’re out, a mix of paprika, cayenne, and cumin can work. I personally love using smoked paprika for that extra depth. Adjust cayenne for your heat preference.
Beef Broth: You can replace it with vegetable broth for a meat-free version. Using homemade broth can elevate the flavor, but store-bought is convenient too.
How Do You Make Sure Your Chili is Packed with Flavor?
To elevate your Texas chili, focus on how you layer the flavors. Start by sautĂ©ing the onions and garlic until they’re fragrant; this is where the base flavor comes from. Then, browning the meat well before adding the spices ensures they release their full potential.
- Cook the onions until they’re soft, then add garlic for a quick cook.
- Browning the beef is key! Don’t rush this step. It’ll develop a rich flavor.
- Toast the spices briefly before adding liquids; this enhances their aromas.
- Let your chili simmer. The longer it cooks, the better the flavors meld. Aim for 2-3 hours if time allows!
Don’t forget to taste it before serving. Sometimes, a little extra salt or spice can make a big difference!
Delicious Texas Roadhouse Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds ground beef (preferably chuck)
- 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Texas Roadhouse Chili recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an hour minimum to cook. For the best flavor, aim to let it simmer for 2-3 hours. A little patience goes a long way in making the chili delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté them until they become translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant. This will create a wonderful base for your chili!
2. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Stir until it’s browned and no longer pink. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off to keep your chili from getting greasy.
3. Add Spices:
Now it’s time to sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for about a minute to toast the spices. This step really helps to release their flavors!
4. Combine All Ingredients:
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, kidney beans, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Give everything a good stir to combine well.
5. Simmer to Perfection:
Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for at least 1 hour. If you have the time, simmering for 2-3 hours will give it even more delicious flavor. Be sure to stir occasionally!
6. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, taste your chili and adjust the seasonings if needed. If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the chili hot! Top it off with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions or cilantro, if desired. Enjoy your warm, hearty Texas Roadhouse-style chili—it’s perfect for a cozy meal!
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Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to beef. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll still achieve a delicious chili. You may need to adjust the seasonings slightly for your taste.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegan?
To make this chili vegan, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use lentils and additional beans for protein. Replace beef broth with vegetable broth, and ensure all other ingredients, like Worcestershire sauce, are vegan-friendly or omitted.
What Are Good Toppings for Texas Roadhouse Chili?
Some fantastic toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced green onions, chopped cilantro, and sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick. Crushed tortilla chips or cornbread on the side are also great for adding texture!
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Yes, making the chili ahead of time is perfect! It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, just warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it gets too thick.
