Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe is a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect whether you like your chili with beans or without. It’s packed with tender ground beef, a rich tomato base, and loads of spices that give it that classic Texas kick. The best part is how easy it is to make at home and the way it fills the kitchen with such a comforting aroma.
I love this chili because it feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, and everyone can enjoy it just the way they like. If you want it bean-free or with hearty beans for extra texture, both ways are delicious. I usually toss in some diced onions and green peppers when I make it to give it a little extra flavor and bite, but it’s flexible enough to fit your mood or pantry.
One of my favorite ways to serve this chili is with a big sprinkle of shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and some crunchy tortilla chips on the side. It’s perfect for casual dinners or game day. Also, leftovers taste even better the next day, so I always make a bit more and look forward to enjoying it again the following lunch. This chili really brings people together and makes any meal feel special without any fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend 80/20 ground beef for a juicy, flavorful chili. Leaner beef can make the chili dry, while higher fat adds richness. If you want a lighter version, ground turkey or chicken works, but the flavor changes a bit.
Beans: Kidney beans are classic but optional. For a traditional Texas chili, skip the beans. If you want beans, pinto or black beans are good alternatives. Rinse canned beans well to reduce salt and improve texture.
Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes with juices and tomato sauce for body and tang. If fresh tomatoes are in season, you can chop and stew them before adding. Crushed tomatoes work too if you want a smoother consistency.
Chili Powder & Spices: Chili powder is key for that signature flavor. If you can, get a good quality chili powder with a mix of spices. Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky note, but you can substitute with regular paprika if needed.
How Do You Build Deep Flavor in This Chili?
Layering flavors little by little is the secret.
- Sauté onions & garlic: Cook until soft and fragrant, this builds the base flavor.
- Brown the beef: Let it get a nice sear without stirring too much, which locks in meat flavor.
- Toast the spices: Stir spices into the beef and onions so the heat releases their oils, boosting aroma.
- Simmer long: Slow simmering melds all flavors together. Stir occasionally and add broth if too thick.
- Season to taste: Always taste before serving and add salt or more chili powder if needed—the spices develop as it cooks.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven – it holds heat well and lets the chili simmer evenly without burning.
- Wooden spoon – perfect for stirring the chili and scraping the bottom without scratching your pot.
- Chef’s knife – to chop onions, garlic, and jalapeños easily and safely.
- Cutting board – a sturdy surface for prep work and protecting your counters.
- Measuring spoons – for accurate spice measurements to get that perfect chili flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner chili that still tastes great.
- Add diced green bell peppers or poblano peppers to boost freshness and a mild heat.
- Mix in black beans or pinto beans instead of kidney beans for a different texture and flavor.
- Stir in a tablespoon of cocoa powder or a square of dark chocolate to add depth and complexity.
Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe (With or Without Beans)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (14 oz) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
Spices and Liquids:
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth or water (as needed)
For Serving:
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for garnish)
- Sliced jalapeños (optional garnish)
- Tortilla chips (optional)
- Sour cream (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chili takes about 15 minutes for prep and browning the meat, plus about 45 to 60 minutes simmering time to develop the flavors well. So plan for roughly 1 hour total, with most of that time spent simmering while you can relax or prepare other dishes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Veggies and Beef
Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until it’s soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until fully browned with no pink showing. Drain excess fat if there’s any.
2. Spice It Up
Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and black pepper over the beef and onions. Stir everything well so the spices coat the meat evenly and become fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Simmer
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well.
If you want beans in your chili, add the drained and rinsed kidney beans now. If you prefer your chili without beans, just skip this step.
Let the chili come to a low boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. If it becomes too thick, add a little more broth or water to loosen it up.
4. Taste and Serve
Give the chili a taste and add extra salt or chili powder if you want it spicier. Serve the chili hot in bowls. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and sliced jalapeños if you like a bit of heat.
For an authentic Texas Roadhouse touch, add some sour cream and crunchy tortilla chips on the side.
Enjoy this hearty, flavorful chili that’s perfect for cozy dinners or gathering with friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Just keep in mind the flavor will be milder, so consider adding a bit more chili powder or cumin to boost the taste.
How Do I Make This Chili Without Beans?
Simply skip adding the kidney beans in step 6. The chili will still be rich and hearty thanks to the ground beef and spices.
Can I Make This Chili Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken Thin Chili?
If your chili is too soupy, simmer it uncovered a bit longer to reduce the liquid. You can also stir in a small amount of tomato paste or crush a few crackers to help thicken it up.
