Dinner

Hot Dog Chili Recipe

ByElena Hart January 11, 2026January 11, 2026

Introduction

This Hot Dog Chili is a flavorful and hearty topping that transforms any simple hot dog into a delicious meal. Packed with spices and rich tomato goodness, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Two chili cheese hot dogs are placed on a white plate set on a wooden board over a white marbled texture. Each hot dog has a soft white bun holding a grilled sausage with a reddish-brown color. The first layer on top of each sausage is a generous amount of thick, meaty chili with a deep reddish-brown tone. Above the chili is a layer of melted shredded cheddar cheese with a bright orange color that partially covers the chili. The final layer consists of chopped white onions and small pieces of green parsley spread evenly on top, adding white and green accents to the dish. Around the plate, there are bowls with diced onions and chopped green herbs, along with some sausages on a white plate in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 lbs ground beef
1 onion (diced)

3 cloves garlic (minced)
28 oz can crushed tomatoes

2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 ½ tablespoons chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
1-2 teaspoons white sugar (or to taste)

Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, sauté the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Step 2: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, sugar, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Bring the chili to a boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until it thickens.
Step 4: Spoon the chili over hot dogs and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce.

Use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative to beef.
Add finely chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for extra texture and flavor.
If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer longer or add a tablespoon of tomato paste.

Storage

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. This chili can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.