There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty, no-fuss meal that brings the bold flavors of a steakhouse right to your kitchen table. And if you’ve ever dined at Texas Roadhouse, you know exactly what I mean—those sizzling plates, the buttery rolls, and that unmistakable smoky aroma. But today, we’re tackling a dish with a name as wild as its flavor: the infamous Texas Roadhouse Roadkill. Don’t let the name scare you—this dish is a delicious, messy, meat-lover’s dream, and I’m here to show you how to recreate it at home.
What Exactly Is Roadkill?
Before you raise an eyebrow, let me assure you—no actual roadkill is involved here! The name is just Texas Roadhouse’s playful way of describing a hearty chopped steak smothered in mushrooms, onions, and melted cheese. It’s the kind of dish that sticks to your ribs and leaves you grinning with every bite. Perfect for a cozy night in or a weekend family dinner, this recipe is all about big flavors and even bigger satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this Roadhouse favorite to life:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef (80/20 blend) – The fat keeps it juicy and flavorful.
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced – Sweet and caramelized to perfection.
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced – Baby bellas or white mushrooms work great.
- 2 tbsp butter – Because everything’s better with butter.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds that deep, umami kick.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – For a little extra savory goodness.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika – A hint of smokiness to mimic the grill.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Season generously!
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melty, gooey, and absolutely necessary.
- Fresh parsley (optional) – For a pop of color and freshness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
1. Sauté the Onions and Mushrooms
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and mushrooms, stirring occasionally until they’re soft and golden brown—about 8–10 minutes. This is where all that rich, savory flavor starts building, so don’t rush it!
2. Cook the Beef
Push the onions and mushrooms to the side of the skillet (or remove them temporarily if your pan is crowded). Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Once the beef is browned and no longer pink, stir in the Worcestershire sauce for that signature Roadhouse tang.
3. Bring It All Together
If you removed the onions and mushrooms earlier, now’s the time to add them back in. Give everything a good stir, letting those flavors mingle. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it melt into gooey perfection—about 2 minutes.
4. Garnish and Serve
Once the cheese is melted, take the skillet off the heat. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a nice touch. Serve this beauty straight from the skillet for that rustic, family-style appeal.
Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions
Making Texas Roadhouse Roadkill at home is all about embracing the hearty, comforting flavors while making it your own. Here are some tips and tweaks to help you nail this dish:
- Meat Choices: While the classic recipe calls for ground beef, you can swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian twist.
- Cheese Lover’s Dream: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses—pepper jack, smoked gouda, or even blue cheese crumbles can add a fun twist.
- Spice It Up: If you love heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
- Mushroom Magic: For extra umami, sauté some mushrooms and mix them into the beef before assembling.
What to Serve With Texas Roadhouse Roadkill
This dish is a meal in itself, but pairing it with the right sides can take it to the next level. Here are some crowd-pleasing options:
- Classic Fries: Crispy, golden fries are a no-brainer—just like you’d get at the restaurant.
- Buttery Corn: Sweet corn on the cob or creamy corn kernels balance the richness of the dish.
- Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with ranch or balsamic dressing adds a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any cheesy, meaty goodness left on the plate.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you somehow have leftovers (unlikely, but possible!), here’s how to keep them tasting great:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual portions tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: For best results, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes, or until heated through. The microwave works in a pinch, but the oven keeps the cheese melty and the edges crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What’s the best way to prevent the cheese from burning?
Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking. If the cheese starts browning too quickly, tent the dish loosely with foil.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
You can, but freshly shredded cheese melts smoother and creamier since pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents.
Is there a gluten-free version?
Yes! Swap the flour in the gravy for a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably comforting about digging into a plate of Texas Roadhouse Roadkill—warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re recreating a favorite restaurant meal or just craving a hearty, satisfying dish, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. Gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade comfort food at its finest. Happy cooking!
PrintTexas Roadhouse Roadkill
A hearty and flavorful dish inspired by Texas Roadhouse, featuring ground beef, mushrooms, and a rich gravy.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in mushrooms, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spoon the beef mixture onto the bottom halves of the hamburger buns.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Place the open-faced sandwiches on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Serve hot with additional toppings if desired.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.