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Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe (Copycat Version)

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Texas Roadhouse Chili is a bold, meaty, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, or meal prepping. This copycat recipe delivers the same hearty, smoky, and slightly spicy chili you love right at home!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Soup
Cuisine American, Southern, Tex-Mex
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Pressure Cooker (for quick cooking)
  • 2 Dutch Oven (for slow simmering)
  • 3 Large Stockpot (for traditional stovetop cooking)
  • 4 Slow Cooker (for hands-off cooking)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained
  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions
 

Sauté the Base

  • In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat.
  • Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.

Build the Flavor

  • Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, black pepper, and salt. Cook for 1 minute to release flavors.

Add the Liquids

  • Pour in beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir well.

Simmer for Depth

  • Add kidney beans, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar.
  • Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Thicken if Needed

  • If you prefer a thicker chili, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water, then stir into the pot.

Serve & Enjoy!

  • Serve hot with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, or cornbread.

Notes

Pro Tips for the Best Texas Roadhouse Chili

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions, garlic, and peppers enhance the flavor.
Let it simmer longer: The longer it cooks, the deeper the flavor.
Customize the spice: Add extra cayenne or diced jalapeños for more heat.
Try smoked meat: Swap ground beef for smoked brisket or pulled pork for an authentic Texas twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Brown the beef first, then add everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.
Q: Can I freeze this chili?
A: Absolutely! Let it cool, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Q: What makes Texas Roadhouse Chili different?
A: It’s thick, rich, and slightly smoky with a perfect balance of spice and sweetness no beans overload!
Keyword Best Texas Chili, Copycat Texas Roadhouse Chili, Homemade Chili, Texas Roadhouse Chili, Texas Roadhouse Chili Recipe