This Texas Roadhouse Chili is hearty and full of flavor, packed with tender beef and zesty beans. It’s perfect for warming you up on a chilly day!
I love making this chili on lazy weekends. It’s simple to cook and always a hit with family and friends. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a big bowl of comfort food? 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the chili. I prefer using 80/20 to keep it juicy, but you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Plant-based crumbles also work well if you’re going meatless.
Beans: Kidney and black beans give great texture and flavor. If you want to switch it up, pinto beans or even chickpeas can be used. Just remember to rinse them to remove excess sodium.
Spices: Chili powder and cumin are essential for that warmth and depth of flavor. If you need it spicier, try adding more cayenne or some jalapeño. Some folks love adding a bit of chipotle for a smoky twist!
Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes and tomato sauce add acidity and sweetness. If you have fresh tomatoes, feel free to use them, just chop and adjust quantities accordingly. A splash of tomato paste can also boost flavor.
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor Blend in My Chili?
The key to flavorful chili is letting it simmer, but there are also a few tricks. First, toasting the spices with sautéed onions and garlic builds a rich base.
- Start by cooking your onions until they’re soft and slightly golden.
- Once you’ve added the spices, cook them briefly to enhance their aroma.
- After combining all your ingredients, let the chili simmer on low heat for at least 45 minutes. This helps meld all the flavors together.
- Don’t forget to taste it before serving. Adjust the seasoning to your liking!
Enjoy making your Texas Roadhouse-style chili! It’s sure to warm you and fill your kitchen with amazing aromas.
Delicious Texas Roadhouse Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (15 oz) cans kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 3 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Toppings (optional but recommended):
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Diced red onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chili takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and then simmers for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Overall, you should set aside about 1.5 hours to enjoy cooking and deliciously filling your home with that amazing chili aroma!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes until they turn translucent. This is where we build that tasty foundation!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn; we just want to awaken those flavors!
3. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned, about 6-8 minutes. As it cooks, break it up with a spatula. If there’s any excess fat, feel free to drain it out now.
4. Spice It Up:
Now it’s time to spice things up! Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook these spices with the meat and onion mixture for 1-2 minutes to toast them and enhance their flavors.
5. Combine Everything Together:
Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth into the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. You should start to see a vibrant mix of colors already!
6. Let It Simmer:
Bring the chili to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot partially and let it cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and let those flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, it’s tasting time! Take a moment to check if the seasoning is just right. If you think it needs a little more kick, feel free to add salt, pepper, or more chili powder.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to enjoy, serve the chili hot in bowls. Top it off with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, and diced red onions for an extra pop of flavor!
9. Pair It Up:
If you like, serve your chili alongside warm cornbread or crunchy tortilla chips for a delightful meal!
Enjoy your rich, flavorful Texas Roadhouse-style chili! 🌶️❤️
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Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute for ground beef. Just keep in mind that turkey can be drier, so consider adding a splash more beef broth or a touch of olive oil to maintain moisture.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
To make vegetarian chili, simply replace the ground beef with a mix of your favorite beans or use meat alternatives like lentils or textured vegetable protein (TVP). You’ll want to add an extra cup of vegetable broth to achieve the desired consistency.
What Should I Do with Leftover Chili?
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. Chili also freezes well, lasting up to 3 months in the freezer!
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Yes, adjusting the spice level is easy! Simply reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a milder version. Conversely, you can add fresh jalapeños or more cayenne to crank up the heat if you like it spicy!
