Independent guide. Not affiliated with Texas Roadhouse, Inc. Prices & calories are approximate and may vary by location.
$7.99The Texas Red Chili is a warming, made-from-scratch starter, a hearty bowl of signature chili loaded with ground beef and beans. It’s filling enough to be a light meal on its own.
What It Is
A bowl of the house Texas red chili with ground beef and beans, made fresh. Also available as a smaller cup.
Taste and Texture
Rich, savory, and mildly spiced with a thick, hearty texture. Comforting on a cold day.
Ingredients
Ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and chili seasoning. The exact recipe isn’t published, so treat copycat versions as estimates.
Available Sizes
Offered as a bowl (larger) and a cup (smaller).
Nutrition Information
Approximately 420 calories for the bowl. Treat macros as estimates and check the official nutrition portal.
Allergen Information
Generally contains beans and seasonings; cross-contact is possible in a shared kitchen. Confirm with your local restaurant if needed.
Popular Pairings
Pairs with the free rolls, or as a starter before a steak. Cheese or onions on top add flavor where available.
Price Information
Usually around $7.99 for the bowl. Prices vary by location.
Ordering Tips
Order the cup if you want a lighter portion; the bowl can double as a light meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Texas Red Chili at Texas Roadhouse?
It’s a hearty, made-from-scratch chili with ground beef and beans, served as a bowl or a cup.
How much is the chili bowl?
Usually around $7.99 for the bowl. Prices vary by location.
How many calories are in the chili bowl?
Roughly 420 calories.
Is there a smaller size?
Yes, a cup portion is available for a lighter serving.
Cup or Bowl? The Math Is Simple
The cup is $4.99 and 210 calories. The bowl is $7.99 and 420. Exactly double the calories for three dollars more.
| Size | Price | Calories | Cost per calorie |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cup | $4.99 | 210 | 2.4 cents |
| Bowl | $7.99 | 420 | 1.9 cents |
The bowl is better value per unit of food. Whether it is the better order depends on what else you are eating.
The cup is the lightest appetizer on the menu. At 210 calories it beats fried pickles at 380, tater skins at 520, and the Cactus Blossom at 1,230. If you want a starter without spending your entree budget, this is it.
How It Compares to Other Starters
| Appetizer | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Texas Red Chili, cup | $4.99 | 210 |
| Grilled Shrimp | $10.99 | 240 |
| Fried Pickles | $7.99 | 380 |
| Texas Red Chili, bowl | $7.99 | 420 |
| Tater Skins | $9.49 | 520 |
| Rattlesnake Bites | $9.99 | 650 |
| Cheese Fries | $8.49 | 720 |
| Cactus Blossom | $8.99 | 1,230 |
Chili as a Meal
A bowl at 420 calories is the same as a 6oz sirloin dinner, for nine dollars less. If you want something warm and filling without a full entree, that is a reasonable trade, particularly at lunch.
Add a side salad at 160 and you are at 580 for under twelve dollars. Not many combinations on this menu do that.
Ordering Notes
- Toppings add up. Cheese and onions come standard at most locations and are included in the figures above.
- Availability varies. Not every location carries chili year round, and some run it seasonally.
- It contains beans and beef. Ask about the seasoning blend if you have dietary restrictions. See our allergen page.
Related
- Full menu with prices and calories.
- Low calorie guide for building a lighter meal.
- Best value guide covers the cheapest ways to eat here.
Prices and calories are estimates and vary by location.