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Hot Dog Chili Recipe

4.6 from 70 reviews

This classic hot dog chili recipe features a flavorful and hearty chili sauce made from ground beef, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. Perfect for topping hot dogs, this chili is easy to prepare on the stovetop and simmers to a rich, thick consistency with a balanced heat and savory depth.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs ground beef
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Spices and Seasonings

  • 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
  • 12 teaspoons white sugar (or to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef and Vegetables: In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, sauté the ground beef along with diced onion and minced garlic. Stir frequently to break up the beef and cook until it is evenly browned and the onions are softened.
  2. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Then add chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
  3. Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently, uncovered, for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chili thickens and the flavors meld together.
  4. Serve: Spoon the hot dog chili generously over cooked hot dogs and enjoy immediately.

Notes

  • Adjust the cayenne pepper and chili powder to control the spiciness according to your preference.
  • Using a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot helps prevent scorching during simmering.
  • This chili can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
  • For a thicker chili, simmer longer or add a little tomato paste during cooking.
  • Optional toppings include shredded cheese, diced onions, or mustard.

Keywords: hot dog chili, chili sauce for hot dogs, ground beef chili, easy chili recipe, stovetop chili