How to Make Texas Roadhouse Chili at Home: A Hearty, Flavorful Recipe
Texas Roadhouse is famous for its bold flavors, and their chili is no exception. Packed with tender beef, a blend of spices, and a rich tomato base, this chili is a crowd-pleaser that brings the heart of Texas right to your table. Whether you’re a fan of the original or looking to recreate a comforting bowl of chili with a kick, this recipe will guide you through making a delicious, Texas-style chili at home.
The Essence of Texas Roadhouse Chili
Texas Roadhouse chili is known for its deep, robust flavors. Unlike some other chilis, which might include beans or a variety of vegetables, Texas Roadhouse keeps it simple and traditional, focusing on the beef and a well-balanced blend of spices. This chili is hearty, meaty, and perfect for a cold day or a game-day feast.
Ingredients
- For the Chili:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/4 cup chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- For Serving:
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream
- Chopped green onions
- Saltine crackers or cornbread
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Break the beef into small crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, drain off any excess fat.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
- Add the Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Then, add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, smoked paprika (if using), cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Simmer: Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
- Taste and Adjust: After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a sweeter chili, add the sugar. For more heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and chopped green onions. Serve with saltine crackers or a slice of cornbread on the side.
Tips for the Best Texas Roadhouse Chili
- Meat Matters: Using 80% lean ground beef provides the right balance of flavor and fat. Too lean, and the chili may lack richness; too fatty, and it could become greasy.
- Customize the Heat: Texas chili is known for its kick, but you can adjust the heat level to your preference. Add more cayenne or even diced jalapeños for an extra spicy chili, or tone it down by reducing the chili powder.
- Let It Simmer: The longer the chili simmers, the deeper the flavors will become. If you have the time, let it cook low and slow for up to 2 hours.
- Thick or Thin: For a thicker chili, continue to simmer uncovered until it reaches your desired consistency. If it becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a bit more beef broth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! After browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients, stir, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Q: Can I add beans to this chili?
A: Traditional Texas chili is bean-free, but if you prefer beans, feel free to add a can of kidney beans or pinto beans during the simmering stage.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Chili often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Q: Can I freeze this chili?
A: Absolutely! Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
Conclusion
Recreating the rich, hearty flavor of Texas Roadhouse Chili at home is easier than you might think. With simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can enjoy a bowl of this comforting chili whenever the craving strikes. Whether served on its own, over a hot dog, or with your favorite toppings, this chili is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.