There’s nothing quite like the hearty, comforting taste of Texas Roadhouse chili to bring everyone together. I’ve always been a fan of its rich flavors and perfectly tender beef, making it a standout dish on their menu.
After several attempts, I finally perfected a copycat recipe that captures the essence of this beloved chili. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly night or looking to impress at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
For the Chili
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 pound ground pork
- 3 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Jalapeño slices
- Fresh cilantro
- Crushed tortilla chips
Tools and Equipment
To master my Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe, you’ll need the following tools and equipment:
Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot
- Essential for even heat distribution and simmering the chili to perfection.
Stovetop or Portable Burner
- Provides the necessary heat source to cook your chili thoroughly.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
- Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Ensures precise measurement of spices, liquids, and other ingredients for authentic flavor.
Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
- Ideal for chopping onions, jalapeños, and other fresh vegetables uniformly.
Can Opener
- Necessary for opening canned tomatoes, beans, and other pantry staples.
Colander
- Useful if you prefer to drain beans before adding them to the chili.
- Makes serving the chili easy and helps portion it out neatly.
Having these tools on hand will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable, allowing you to focus on creating a delicious, hearty chili that rivals the original Texas Roadhouse version.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Texas Roadhouse Chili ahead of time can save you time and enhance the flavors. Follow these steps to ensure your chili remains delicious when you’re ready to serve it.
Cooking and Cooling
- Prepare the Chili: Follow the recipe steps to cook the chili completely.
- Cool Quickly: Transfer the hot chili to shallow containers to allow it to cool faster. Avoid leaving it out at room temperature for more than two hours.
- Store Properly: Once cooled, cover the containers tightly with lids or plastic wrap.
Refrigerating
- Refrigeration Time: Store the chili in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the desired amount in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
Freezing
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Freezer | Up to 3 months |
- Freeze in Portions: Divide the chili into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave some space at the top for expansion.
- Label and Date: Clearly label each container with the date to keep track of storage time.
- Thawing: Transfer the chili from the freezer to the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips for Best Results
- Flavor Development: Allowing the chili to sit for a day or two in the refrigerator enhances the depth of flavors.
- Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, cook gently to prevent the meat from becoming tough.
- Add Fresh Toppings Later: If you plan to add toppings like cheese or sour cream, add them after reheating to maintain their texture.
By following these make-ahead instructions, you can enjoy hearty Texas Roadhouse Chili anytime with minimal effort.
Directions
Recreating Texas Roadhouse Chili is a rewarding process that allows each ingredient to shine. Follow these steps to master the perfect bowl of hearty chili.
Prep
- Gather Your Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups beef broth
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Finely chop the onion and garlic.
- Dice the green bell pepper.
- Measure out all the spices and set them aside.
Cook
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until softened.
- Brown the Meat:
- Add the ground beef and ground pork to the pot.
- Cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink, approximately 7-10 minutes.
- If there’s excess fat, drain it to keep the chili from becoming greasy.
- Season the Meat:
- Sprinkle in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, and dried oregano.
- Stir well to ensure the meat and vegetables are evenly coated with the spices.
Simmer
- Add Tomatoes and Beans:
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the drained kidney beans.
- Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Incorporate Beef Broth:
- Pour in 2 cups of beef broth, ensuring the chili has enough liquid to simmer without drying out.
- Mix everything together to blend the flavors.
- Bring to a Boil:
- Increase the heat to high and bring the chili to a rolling boil.
- Reduce Heat and Cover:
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the Dutch oven and let the chili simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow flavors to meld.
- Adjust Consistency and Seasoning:
- After simmering, taste the chili and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- If you prefer a thicker chili, leave the lid off and simmer uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve:
- Ladle the chili into bowls.
- Top with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced jalapeños for an authentic Texas Roadhouse experience.
Serving Suggestions
When my Texas Roadhouse Chili is ready, I love elevating the dining experience with a few thoughtful additions. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve this hearty chili:
Classic Toppings
Enhance the flavors and textures by adding these classic toppings:
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A generous sprinkle melts beautifully into the warm chili.
- Sour Cream: Adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the spicy richness.
- Jalapeño Slices: For those who crave an extra kick of heat.
- Chopped Green Onions: Provides a fresh, crisp bite that complements the savory chili.
Side Dishes
Pairing the chili with the right sides can make the meal even more satisfying:
- Warm Cornbread: Its sweet and crumbly texture is perfect for soaking up every bit of the chili.
- Crispy Tortilla Chips: Great for scooping and adding a crunchy element.
- Steamed Rice: Adds a hearty base, making the meal more filling.
Bread Options
Serving chili with some delicious bread options can enhance the meal:
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor pairs wonderfully with the robust chili.
- Crusty French Bread: Perfect for dipping and enjoying the rich sauce.
Beverage Pairings
Choosing the right drink can complement the spicy and savory notes of the chili:
- Cold Beer: A light lager or pilsner refreshes the palate between bites.
- Iced Tea: Sweet or unsweetened, it’s a classic choice that balances the heat.
- Red Wine: A bold Cabernet Sauvignon adds depth to the meal.
Presentation Tips
Creating an inviting presentation makes the meal more enjoyable:
- Use Warm Bowls: Keeping the chili hot enhances the flavors upon serving.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of cilantro or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve Family-Style: Placing the chili in a large serving bowl encourages a communal and cozy dining atmosphere.
Experimenting with these serving suggestions allows you to customize your chili experience and make each meal uniquely delicious. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet night in or hosting a gathering, these ideas will ensure your Texas Roadhouse Chili shines on the table.
Conclusion
Making Texas Roadhouse chili at home is a fun and satisfying experience I’m thrilled for you to try. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps you can recreate that amazing flavor any night.
Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or hosting friends, this copycat recipe is sure to impress. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy every hearty, delicious bite. Happy cooking!
