Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Phase 1: Sautéing the Aromatics
- Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed stock pot over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and diced yellow or white onion to the pot. Cook them for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are translucent and slightly softened, releasing their fragrant aroma into your kitchen.
Phase 2: Browning the Beef
- Add the ground beef to the pot with the softened aromatics. Break up the meat with a spoon, stirring continually to separate the beef and prevent large chunks. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the beef is evenly browned all over.
- You can choose whether to drain off the rendered fat. Personally, I don't drain the fat, as it contributes significantly to the chili's flavor and richness.
Phase 3: Building the Flavor Base
- Add in all the remaining ingredients: the rinsed and drained red kidney beans, tomato sauce, rich tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, packed brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything thoroughly to ensure all the spices are well combined with the vibrant tomato base and beef.
Phase 4: The Two-Stage Simmer & Rest – Our Unique Twist
- Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. First, let the chili cook, uncovered, for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally. After 25 minutes, cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and continue to simmer for an additional 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Once the simmering is complete, remove the chili from the heat. Let the chili rest, uncovered, for 10 minutes before serving.
Phase 5: Serving Your Masterpiece
- Serve your homemade Texas Roadhouse chili hot, topped generously with shredded cheddar cheese and diced red onions, or any other favorite toppings. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Nutrition
Notes
Embrace the unique two-stage simmer and crucial 10-minute rest for maximum flavor and restaurant-quality texture. Chili flavors deepen overnight, making it ideal for meal prepping. Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for 4-6 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Serve with classic toppings like shredded cheddar cheese and diced red onions, or creative additions like avocado slices and cornbread. Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.