Hot Dog Chili Recipe
Nothing elevates a classic hot dog quite like a rich, savory chili topping. This homemade hot dog chili recipe brings the perfect balance of spices, meatiness, and thickness — making your hot dogs irresistible. Whether you’re preparing for a cookout, game day, or a quick family dinner, this chili is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Forget canned chili and experience the deep flavors of a freshly made version that’s easy, budget-friendly, and ready in under 30 minutes. Once you try it, your hot dog game will never be the same!
Ingredients Of Hot Dog Chili Recipe
Why You Will Love This Hot Dog Chili Recipe
This chili is thick, meaty, and perfectly spiced — specially crafted for topping hot dogs without making them soggy. It’s quick to make with pantry staples and customizable to your spice preference. Ideal for parties, barbecues, or just a weeknight treat, it turns a simple hot dog into something extraordinary. Plus, it freezes well for future cravings!
Preparation Process Of Hot Dog Chili Recipe
Making hot dog chili is incredibly straightforward. Begin by browning the ground beef, then mix in spices, tomato sauce, and other condiments. Simmer everything to let the flavors marry, creating a thick and delicious chili that’s ready to spoon over freshly grilled hot dogs.
Step By Step Instructions
Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef for 5–6 minutes until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess grease and return to the pan.
Add Seasonings & Condiments: Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, yellow mustard, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar. Mix well to coat the meat evenly.
Simmer with Water: Pour in 1/2 cup of water to loosen the mixture and deglaze the pan. Stir thoroughly and bring the chili to a gentle simmer.
Thicken the Chili: Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Serve Hot: Spoon the hot chili generously over grilled or steamed hot dogs. Add toppings like shredded cheese or chopped onions, and serve immediately.
How to Serve?
- Spoon generously over grilled hot dogs
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese
- Add chopped onions for crunch
- Serve with toasted buns
- Pair with coleslaw or fries
Tips & Variations
Use Chicken Thighs: Swap ground beef with ground chicken thighs for extra juiciness and rich flavor.
Add Spinach or Mushrooms: Stir in chopped spinach or sliced mushrooms during the simmering stage for added nutrients and texture.
Make it Spicy: Increase the heat with more red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to turn up the flavor.
Go Meatless: Use plant-based crumbles or lentils for a vegetarian version without sacrificing texture.
Thicken with Cornmeal: Add a teaspoon of cornmeal while simmering to naturally thicken the chili and enhance the body.
Add a Smoky Twist: Mix in a touch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a deep, smoky flavor.
Sweeten it Up: A bit of brown sugar or honey can balance the spice with a hint of sweetness.
Nutrition
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 13g
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
Recipe Card
Hot Dog Chili Recipe
Course: Banana Bread Recipe6
servings5
minutes20
minutes180
kcalLooking for the perfect hot dog chili recipe? This easy and flavorful chili is made specifically for topping hot dogs. Loaded with ground beef, a blend of spices, and tomato-based goodness, it’s thick enough to stay on your bun without soaking it. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a homemade chili that beats anything from a can. It’s ideal for cookouts, family meals, or party platters. Customize the heat level to your taste and store leftovers for later use. Whether you’re a chili dog fanatic or just exploring, this recipe will impress every time.
Ingredients
Ground beef (1 pound)
Tomato sauce (1 can, 8 oz)
Ketchup (1/4 cup)
Yellow mustard (1 tablespoon)
Chili powder (2 tablespoons)
Onion powder (1 teaspoon)
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
Paprika (1 teaspoon)
Salt (to taste)
Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
Brown sugar (1 teaspoon)
Water (1/2 cup)
Directions
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef for 5–6 minutes until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess grease and return to the pan.
- Add Seasonings & Condiments: Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, yellow mustard, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar. Mix well to coat the meat evenly.
- Simmer with Water: Pour in 1/2 cup of water to loosen the mixture and deglaze the pan. Stir thoroughly and bring the chili to a gentle simmer.
- Thicken the Chili: Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Serve Hot: Spoon the hot chili generously over grilled or steamed hot dogs. Add toppings like shredded cheese or chopped onions, and serve immediately.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Always drain the meat to avoid greasy chili.
- Adjust seasonings to taste before serving.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
- Double the recipe for large gatherings.
FAQs
Conclusion
This hot dog chili recipe is the ultimate upgrade for any backyard cookout or casual dinner. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s a game-changer for your hot dog toppings. Whether you like it classic or with a spicy twist, this versatile chili will become your go-to recipe. Ditch the canned version and make your own homemade masterpiece today!
