A good hot dog chili recipe is the secret weapon behind a truly unforgettable frank. Born from classic American diner culture, hot dog chili (or chili sauce) is a thick, meaty, slightly sweet topping designed to complement—rather than overpower—the flavor of a grilled hot dog. It’s rich, saucy, spiced just right, and has a nostalgic, comfort-food appeal that brings backyard cookouts and ballpark eats to mind.
Unlike regular chili, this version is smoother and less chunky, perfect for layering without making your bun soggy. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or crafting a comfort meal at home, this chili elevates any hot dog to gourmet levels.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
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1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
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1 cup beef broth (or water + bouillon cube)
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1 tbsp chili powder
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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1/2 tsp ground cumin
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1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
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1 tbsp yellow mustard
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2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tsp sugar
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Salt and black pepper to taste
Substitutions:
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Ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian option.
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Vegetable broth in place of beef broth for plant-based diets.
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Tomato sauce (1/2 cup) can sub for tomato paste and reduce broth by 1/4 cup.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Sauté Aromatics:
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In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add a drizzle of oil.
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Cook the chopped onion for 3–4 minutes until translucent.
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Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Brown the Beef:
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Add ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon.
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Cook until browned and no pink remains, about 6–8 minutes.
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Add Seasonings:
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Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, mustard, Worcestershire, and sugar.
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Let the spices bloom for 1–2 minutes.
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Simmer:
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Add tomato paste and beef broth. Stir until fully combined.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
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Final Taste Test:
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Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust heat or sweetness if desired.
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Serve Warm:
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Spoon over grilled hot dogs and top with onions, cheese, or mustard as desired.
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Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Mash the meat: Use a potato masher while cooking to get that fine, diner-style chili texture.
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Simmer uncovered: This allows the sauce to reduce and intensify in flavor.
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Make ahead: It tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld.
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Use a cast iron or heavy-bottom pan to ensure even heat and avoid burning.
Variations and Customizations
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Vegetarian: Swap beef for lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based meat.
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Low-carb/Keto: Use lean beef, skip the sugar, and serve on lettuce wraps.
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Sweet and Spicy: Add a touch of honey or maple syrup with extra chili flakes.
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Tex-Mex Fusion: Stir in a bit of chipotle in adobo for smoky depth.
Serving Suggestions
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Classic Style: Over hot dogs in toasted buns, topped with chopped onions, shredded cheddar, and yellow mustard.
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Loaded Fries: Spoon it over French fries and add sour cream and jalapeños.
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Chili Nachos: Layer over tortilla chips with melted cheese for a party snack.
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Side Pairings: Coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, or a cold beer.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1/4 cup chili)
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Calories: ~140
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Protein: 9g
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Carbohydrates: 5g
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Fat: 10g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 2g
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Note: Nutritional values vary with ingredient brands and substitutions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze hot dog chili?
A: Absolutely. Let it cool completely and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Q: How do I reheat it?
A: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warm.
Q: Can I double or triple the recipe?
A: Yes! This recipe scales beautifully for large gatherings or meal prep.
Q: What if it’s too spicy?
A: Add a teaspoon of sugar or a splash of cream to balance the heat.
Q: Is this the same as regular chili?
A: Not quite—hot dog chili is smoother and thicker, designed to be a topping, not a bowlful.
Closing Thoughts
Hot dog chili is more than just a topping—it’s a nostalgic flavor bomb that brings people together. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just craving a classic American treat, this recipe has you covered. Try it once, and you’ll never want a plain dog again!
