Hot Dog Chili Recipe – Flavorful & Easy Homemade Topping
If you love a loaded hot dog, then this hot dog chili recipe is about to become your new favorite! Unlike a traditional bowl of chili, hot dog chili is made smoother, thicker, and slightly sweet so it clings perfectly to your hot dog without overpowering it.
This Southern-inspired chili topping is rich in flavor, made with ground beef, tomato sauce, and a blend of warm spices. It’s quick to prepare, freezes well, and turns an ordinary hot dog into a game-day or backyard BBQ classic.
Ingredients (Makes About 6–8 Servings)
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean recommended)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- ½ tsp sugar (balances acidity)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Cook the beef – In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into fine crumbles with a spoon.
- Add onion & garlic – Stir in chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 3 minutes).
- Mix in seasonings – Add chili powder, paprika, cumin, cayenne, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
- Add liquids – Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well.
- Simmer – Reduce heat to low and let chili simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Adjust seasoning – Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or spice level as desired.
- Serve – Spoon the hot dog chili generously over grilled or boiled hot dogs.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Serving Size: 6–8 hot dogs (depending on portion size)
Tips & Variations
- Make it sweeter: Add a teaspoon of brown sugar or ketchup for a sweeter chili, similar to diner-style hot dog chili.
- Add beans (optional): Traditionally, hot dog chili is bean-free, but you can add kidney or pinto beans for extra bulk.
- Thicker consistency: For a stickier chili, reduce the liquid slightly or simmer longer.
- Spice it up: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra cayenne for heat lovers.
- Make ahead: Chili tastes even better the next day! Store in the fridge overnight for enhanced flavor.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approx. ¼ cup chili)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
Healthy Alternatives
- Low-Oil Option: Use lean ground turkey or chicken and skip added oil.
- Sugar-Free: Omit sugar and use natural tomato sauce with no added sweeteners.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure Worcestershire sauce and broth are gluten-free.
- Keto-Friendly: Use ground beef with higher fat, skip sugar, and keep portion size moderate.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Replace beef with lentils, textured vegetable protein (TVP), or plant-based crumbles.
Serving Suggestions
This hot dog chili recipe is perfect for BBQs, tailgates, and family dinners. Serve it spooned over grilled hot dogs, topped with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onions, or jalapeño slices.
It also works great as a topping for baked potatoes, nachos, or even french fries for a chili cheese fries upgrade. With its rich, flavorful taste and smooth texture, this chili is guaranteed to take your hot dogs from ordinary to unforgettable.
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I make hot dog chili ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove before serving.
Q2: Can I freeze hot dog chili?
Absolutely. Freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
Q3: What’s the difference between hot dog chili and regular chili?
Hot dog chili is usually smoother, slightly sweeter, and bean-free, making it perfect as a topping rather than a main dish.
Q4: Can I double this recipe?
Yes! This recipe easily doubles or triples for parties, potlucks, and game days.
Q5: What’s the best hot dog to use with this chili?
Beef hot dogs pair best, but turkey or chicken hot dogs also work well for lighter options.
