There are plenty of choices when it comes to casual sit-down dining chains. Still, it’s hard to beat the combination of steakhouse style and Southwestern-inspired flair that defines the menu at Texas Roadhouse. Over three decades of operation, more than 650 Roadhouses have opened their doors nationwide.
However, if you find yourself far from one or crave these delicious dishes without the cost or hassle of dining out, you’re in luck. Try a few of these copycat recipes that are as tasty as they are simple to prepare in your home kitchen.
Whether you’re looking for a starter to your meal, a hearty main course, or a satisfying dessert, Texas Roadhouse offers it all. Here are a few of the best options.
Appetizers & Sides
Rattlesnake Bites
Though they may sound scary or unusual, the only thing dangerous about this classic app is how delicious it is. The fritter-style bites are made up of a mixture of cheese, diced jalapeno, and spiced flour, bound together with egg and deep-fried. When served with the mouthwatering Cajun horseradish, it’s a versatile and popular snack for all situations.
Check out this recipe
Cactus Blossom
Another Texas Roadhouse creation with a name that’s not quite what it seems, the cactus blossom is a delicately fried onion cooked whole and cut into strips for easy removal and dipping. The secret comes down to the slicing technique and the simple yet effective spice mix that defines the dish. It’s a surefire crowd favorite!
Check out this recipe
Chili
Start a dinner or enjoy a light meal with this hearty chili, which is so tasty you won’t notice it breaks a key Texas rule by adding beans. With a mix of spicy, smoky, and sweet undertones, it’s a top take on this common dish.
Check out this recipe
Yeast Rolls
One of the chain’s most iconic items isn’t even ordered – it’s simply delivered to every table as part of the homestyle experience. These rolls combine a yeasty, soft, slightly sweet interior with a gently browned outside and pair perfectly with just about any entree or other appetizer. Meanwhile, they also serve as the perfect delivery vehicle for all types of sauces, jams, jellies, and butters.
Check out this recipe
Cinnamon Honey Butter
Speaking of butter, the ideal, authentic companion for your Texas Roadhouse rolls is a copycat version of the chain’s famous honey cinnamon butter. Those three ingredients, along with powdered sugar, are beaten together into an airy, luscious, easily spreadable treat that enhances any type of bread. Plus, it lasts up to two weeks, making it a great choice to prepare in batches.
Check out this recipe
Seasoned Rice
Rice may not seem exciting, but when prepared Roadhouse-style, your fellow diners will be clamoring for seconds. The rich, savory flavor comes from a combination of beef broth and creole seasoning. A bit of parsley for fresh contrast elevates it even further.
Check out this recipe
Green Beans
Simple canned green beans are taken to an entirely new level with this preparation, which will be very familiar to those who’ve enjoyed the dish at the restaurant itself. Bacon and ham base provide intense porky flavor, alongside gently cooked white onion. Plus, preparing it is quick and relatively hands-off, allowing busy cooks to focus on their main course.
Check out this recipe
Entrees
Chicken Fried Sirloin
Chicken fried steak is elevated with the use of delectable sirloin instead of more traditional, lower-quality cuts. However, what remains the same is the incredible flavor, satisfying crunch from the fried coating, and creamy gravy. Despite the big, bold flavors, it’s prepared with items likely already found in most home kitchens, too.
Check out this recipe
Smothered Chicken
This famous Texas Roadhouse dish is built on a base of tender, juicy chicken breasts topped with a flavorful mix of mushrooms, onions, and cheese that “smothers” them. While it might feel decadent, it’s surprisingly simple to prepare and a great way to spice up your typical chicken breast meals.
Check out this recipe
Roadkill
Another smothered option from Texas Roadhouse, this time diners can enjoy a perfectly seasoned hamburger steak accentuated with the same mushroom, onion, and cheese mixture. It’s reminiscent of a high-end hamburger without the bun but with even more flavor!
Check out this recipe
Herb Crusted Chicken
For a lighter but equally vibrant option, try this herb-crusted chicken, which is coated with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and more. When finished off with fresh parsley and the juice of a gently charred lemon, the combination of brightness, savoriness, and herbiness brings you right back to your last visit to Texas Roadhouse.
Check out this recipe
Chicken Critters
Even the fried chicken tenders get their own twist at Texas Roadhouse! These “critters” are coated in a spiced buttermilk batter before being deep-fried to crispy, juicy perfection. They’re delicious on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce, like Roadhouse’s Cajun horseradish
Check out this recipe
Beef Tips
Succulent sirloin beef tips are the star of the show in this comfort-food classic. After grilling your beef, toss it in an ultra-savory sauce based on beef base, Worcestershire sauce, and Maggi sauce. Meanwhile, sautéed mushrooms and onions provide both extra flavor and a delicious textural contrast.
Check out this recipe
Salmon
If you think chicken and steak are the only things worth ordering at Texas Roadhouse, think again. All the same Lone Star flavor is imbued into these tender, flaky salmon filets, which are sautéed in butter to add flavor and a tasty crust.
Check out this recipe
Desserts
Brownie
Cap off your meal Texas-style with this deliciously decadent brownie topped with a sweet chocolate drizzle. With such a simple recipe and reliably tasty result, you’ll wonder why you ever used the boxed mix!
Check out this recipe
Granny’s Apple Classic
It doesn’t get more American than a Texas-inspired American pie topped with ice cream, just like Granny used to make. There are no big surprises here when it comes to the familiar and comforting flavors. Still, Texas Roadhouse’s scratch-made process shows how a little bit of old-fashioned care can go a long way toward producing memorable desserts.
Check out this recipe
Strawberry Cheesecake
Those who’d prefer a creamy, fruity way to cap off their meal can also opt for a slice of strawberry cheesecake prepared just like their favorite restaurant. A dense, creamy filling is baked atop a simple cookie or graham cracker crust, all drizzled with a sweet sugared topping of fresh strawberries.
Check out this recipe
Cocktails
Hurricane Margarita
This Texas Roadhouse classic combines the best elements of two legendary cocktails, the Hurricane and the Margarita. Both spiced rum and tequila ensure this drink packs a punch, while margarita mix and fruit juices help round out the flavors and mellow out the drink’s intensity.
Check out this recipe
:quality(85):upscale()/2020/06/11/752/n/1922195/f39d1bd65ee263dff08624.69732416_.jpg)
Frozen Sangria Margarita
Another fusion classic from Texas Roadhouse, this one takes the classic frozen margarita and amps up the experience with red wine, citrus juice, and more. Plus, prep is ultra-simple: just toss the ingredients in a blender, pour, and serve, no bartending skills required. This also makes this distinctive drink an excellent choice for preparing in large batches for parties.
Check out this recipe
Cactus Water
More commonly known as Ranch Water, Texas Roadhouse’s Cactus Water shows that the most enjoyable cocktails don’t need a vast array of ingredients and garnishes. Lime juice, agave, and carbonated water (ideally Topo Chico brand, for authenticity) are mixed with your favorite tequila or mezcal for a simple and refreshing drink ideal for cooling off and versatile enough to go with nearly any meal or snack. For extra flair, add a rim of zesty, spicy Tajin seasoning!
Check out this recipe
Peach Fuzz
Most people may think of Georgia when they think of peaches, but this drink may have you reconsidering. This Lone Star cocktail includes peach schnapps, vodka, and several types of juice, ensuring it provides both a nice buzz and a sweet, uniquely flavored drinking experience. It’s a great contrast for many of the zesty, flavorful entrees that are found on the Texas Roadhouse menu.
Check out this recipe
Bring the roadhouse to your house with these incredible recipes
Enjoying the vibrant flavors of the Lone Star State no longer requires the time, money, and stress of eating out. Even beginner home cooks will find these straightforward copycat recipes easy to recreate in their home kitchens and customize to fit their tastes and budgets. Texas Roadhouse fans should keep this list handy, and they may find that satisfying their next craving can be accomplished more easily than they think.
Leave a Reply