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Get ready to warm up with this hearty and flavorful Texas Roadhouse Chili! This recipe is inspired by the famous restaurant chain and features tender chunks of ground beef and a medley of spices and vegetables that come together to create a satisfying and savory chili. Perfect for chilly evenings or game day gatherings, this recipe is easy to make and can be customized to your liking with optional toppings and modifications.

The aroma alone will have your mouth watering, and the taste is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving some comfort food, this chili recipe is a must-try. So grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor the flavors of Texas in every spoonful!

History Of Texas Roadhouse Chili

Texas Roadhouse Chili is a popular dish that originated in the United States. The Texas Roadhouse restaurant chain, which first opened its doors in 1993, is known for its delicious and hearty food, including its famous chili. While the exact origins of the recipe are unclear, it is believed that the chili was inspired by the traditional Texan dish of chili con carne, which has been a staple in the region for centuries. Chili con carne, which translates to “chili with meat,” typically features ground beef, tomatoes, chili peppers, and a variety of spices.

Ingredients

beef chuck, 4 pounds
canola oil, 3 tablespoons
Garlic (diced), 2 tablespoons
Diced yellow or white onion, 1 cup
chili powder, 2 teaspoons
ground cumin seeds, 1 1/2
smoked paprika (Spanish), 1 tablespoon
black pepper, 1/8 teaspoon
kosher salt, 2 teaspoons
Italian seasoning blend, 1 tablespoon
brown sugar, 1 tablespoon
Tomatoes (crushed), 2 cups
canned red kidney beans, 2 (15 ounces)
Vinegar, 1 tablespoon
jalapenos (sliced and seeded), 1/4 cup
red pepper flakes (crushed), 1/8 teaspoon
masa harina (or corn tortilla flour), 2 tablespoons
cheddar cheese (shredded), 1 cup
red onions (diced), 1/2 cup

Step By Step Instructions To Make Texas Roadhouse Chili

Step 1

The beef chuck should be cut into half-inch cubes.

Step 2

A large pot or Dutch oven should contain 3 tablespoons of oil. The oil should be heated on high.

Step 3

The onion and garlic should be cooked for two minutes in the pot. The heat should be reduced to medium-high, then the beef cubes should be added. Make sure you stir the meat constantly while it is browning.

Step 4

Immediately after the meat has browned slightly (without showing any red), lower the heat to medium.

Step 5

In a large bowl, combine Italian seasonings, vinegar, smoked paprika, diced jalapenos, cumin, chili powder, tomatoes, beans, brown sugar, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes. Be sure to mix well.

Step 6

Adding corn tortilla flour (or masa harina) will thicken the chili after simmering for about 10 minutes.

Step 7

The chili should thicken after 10 more minutes of cooking.

Step 8

Serve with your favorite sides.

Tips and Tricks

Use beef chuck: Beef chuck is a great cut of meat for chili as it is well-marbled and becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.

Brown the beef: Before adding the beef to the chili, make sure to brown it in a hot skillet with oil. This will help develop a deeper flavor and color.

Drain and rinse the beans: Drain and rinse the beans before adding them to the chili to remove any excess sodium and starch.

Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the amount of chili powder and jalapenos. If you like it spicier, add more!

Use smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky flavor to the chili and gives it that authentic Texas Roadhouse taste.

Add masa harina: Masa harina is a type of corn flour used to thicken the chili and add a subtle corn flavor. Make sure to mix it with water before adding it to the chili to prevent lumps.

Garnish with toppings: Shredded cheddar cheese, diced red onions, and sour cream are great toppings for Texas Roadhouse Chili. They add a creamy and tangy contrast to the spicy and hearty chili.

By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to make a delicious and authentic Texas Roadhouse Chili that will be a hit with your family and friends.

Variations

While the classic Roadhouse Chili recipe is delicious on its own, there are a few variations you can try to switch things up:

Vegetarian Texas Roadhouse Chili: Replace the beef with plant-based protein such as textured vegetable protein or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

White Texas Roadhouse Chili: Swap out the red kidney beans for white beans, and use white chicken meat instead of beef.

Turkey Texas Roadhouse Chili: Use ground turkey instead of beef, and adjust the spices and seasonings to your taste.

Slow Cooker Texas Roadhouse Chili: Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Texas Roadhouse Chili Mac: Serve the chili over macaroni noodles and top with shredded cheddar cheese and diced onions.

White Chicken Chili: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of beef and add some white beans like cannellini beans or navy beans. Add some cumin, coriander, and oregano to give it a Mexican flavor. Top it with shredded Monterey jack cheese and fresh cilantro for a delicious twist.

Use beer: Replace some of the beef broth with beer for added flavor. Choose a lager or ale that complements the chili’s spices.

Substitutions

If you don’t have some of the ingredients for Roadhouse Chili, don’t worry! Here are some common substitutions you can make:

Beef chuck: You can substitute beef chuck with another tough cut of beef such as beef brisket or beef round roast.

Canola oil: Any neutral-tasting oil such as vegetable oil, grapeseed oil, or sunflower oil can be used instead of canola oil.

Diced garlic: If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder or minced garlic from a jar.

Yellow or white onion: You can use any type of onion, such as red onion or shallots, depending on your preference.

Smoked paprika: If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika or chipotle powder instead.

Red kidney beans: Any type of bean such as black beans, pinto beans, or navy beans can be used instead of red kidney beans.

Masa harina: Cornmeal or cornstarch can be used as a substitute for masa harina.

Note

substitutions can affect the overall taste and texture of the dish, so adjust the seasonings accordingly. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make the recipe your own!

Serving Suggestions

Roadhouse chili can be served with a variety of sides to make a complete meal. Here are some options:

Cornbread: Cornbread is a classic side dish for chili and is a great way to soak up the flavorful broth.

Rice: A serving of white or brown rice can be a great way to bulk up the meal and add some texture to the dish.

Toppings: You can also serve the chili with a variety of toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or chopped cilantro.

Salad: A side salad is a great way to add some freshness and balance out the richness of the chili.

Fritos: Fritos corn chips can be crumbled on top of the chili for added crunch and flavor.

Ultimately, the sides you choose to serve with your Texas Roadhouse chili will depend on your personal taste preferences and dietary restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Texas Roadhouse Chili in advance?

Yes, you can make the chili ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in Texas Roadhouse Chili?

Yes, you can adjust the spiciness level by adding more or less jalapenos or red pepper flakes. You can also adjust the chili powder and cumin to your taste.

Can I use ground beef instead of the beef chuck in Texas Roadhouse Chili?

While you can use ground beef, it won’t be as tender as using beef chuck. If using ground beef, reduce the cooking time accordingly.

Is it possible to make Texas Roadhouse Chili in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make Texas Roadhouse Chili in a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Can I freeze Roadhouse Chili?

Yes, you can freeze Texas Roadhouse Chili. Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Texas Roadhouse Chili is a delicious and satisfying dish that has a rich history in Texas and beyond. Whether you’re enjoying it at the restaurant or making it at home, this recipe is easy to customize and perfect for chilly evenings or game day gatherings. So why not give it a try and see why it’s become such a beloved classic?

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