Name: Irresistible Texas Roadhouse Chili
Ingredients: 2 tbsp neutral oil (olive or avocado): This oil is used to sauté the vegetables and adds a healthy fat component.; 1 medium yellow onion, diced: Onions provide a foundational flavor that forms the base of the chili.; 2 tbsp minced fresh garlic: Garlic adds depth and enhances the overall aroma of the chili.; 2 lbs lean ground turkey bacon (or chicken): As a main protein source, ground turkey bacon (or chicken) keeps the dish lean and flavorful.; 3.5 tsp cumin: Cumin offers an earthy flavor that is essential in chili.; 2 tbsp brown sugar: This acts as a sweet counterbalance to the spices, enhancing the overall flavor.; 2 tbsp chili powder: The star spice that gives chili its signature flavor – make sure to use a quality blend for the best results.; 1.5 tbsp smoked paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness that enhances the chili’s depth.; ½ tsp cracked black pepper: Provides a bit of heat and complexity.; 3.5 tsp salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.; 2 (14 oz) cans crushed tomatoes: The base of the chili, adding moisture and richness.; 3 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the chili.; 1 (14 oz) can kidney beans (optional): These beans add texture, fiber, and make the dish more filling. Use low-sodium for a healthier option.; 1 cup low-sodium broth: Acts as a cooking liquid that infuses additional flavor.; ⅛ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy extra heat, this adds a nice kick.

Description

Irresistible Texas Roadhouse Chili: A hearty, flavorful chili packed with tender beef, beans, and spices. Perfect for a comforting, filling meal.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tbsp neutral oil (olive or avocado): This oil is used to sauté the vegetables and adds a healthy fat component.
1 medium yellow onion, diced: Onions provide a foundational flavor that forms the base of the chili.
2 tbsp minced fresh garlic: Garlic adds depth and enhances the overall aroma of the chili.
2 lbs lean ground turkey bacon (or chicken): As a main protein source, ground turkey bacon (or chicken) keeps the dish lean and flavorful.
3.5 tsp cumin: Cumin offers an earthy flavor that is essential in chili.
2 tbsp brown sugar: This acts as a sweet counterbalance to the spices, enhancing the overall flavor.
2 tbsp chili powder: The star spice that gives chili its signature flavor – make sure to use a quality blend for the best results.
1.5 tbsp smoked paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness that enhances the chili’s depth.
½ tsp cracked black pepper: Provides a bit of heat and complexity.
3.5 tsp salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
2 (14 oz) cans crushed tomatoes: The base of the chili, adding moisture and richness.
3 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the chili.
1 (14 oz) can kidney beans (optional): These beans add texture, fiber, and make the dish more filling. Use low-sodium for a healthier option.
1 cup low-sodium broth: Acts as a cooking liquid that infuses additional flavor.
⅛ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy extra heat, this adds a nice kick.

Instructions

Heat the oil: In a Dutch oven over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of neutral oil. Once hot, it should shimmer, indicating it’s ready for cooking.
Sauté the onion: Add the diced medium yellow onion to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent it from browning.
Add garlic: Stir in 2 tablespoons of minced fresh garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Cook the ground turkey bacon (or chicken): Add 2 lbs of ground turkey bacon (or chicken) to the pot. Cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
Mix in spices: Stir in 3.5 teaspoons of cumin, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1.5 tablespoons of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of cracked black pepper, and 3.5 teaspoons of salt. Cook for 30-60 seconds to bloom the spices, stirring constantly.
Add the base: Pour in the 2 cans of crushed tomatoes, 3 tablespoons of tomato paste, and 1 cup of low-sodium broth. If using, add 1 can of kidney beans and the optional ⅛ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until well combined.
Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the chili simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Serve: Dish out the chili into bowls and serve warm, accompanied by your favorite toppings such as shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onions, sour cream, and tortilla chips or yeast rolls. Enjoy!