Classic Hot Dog Chili Sauce: A Must-Have for the Perfect Hot Dog

Introduction

No summer cookout or game day spread is complete without a delicious hot dog piled high with savory toppings. If you’re looking to elevate your hot dog experience, this Classic Hot Dog Chili Sauce is exactly what you need. Made with simple pantry staples like ground beef, tomato sauce, and a blend of spices, this sauce is rich, flavorful, and just the right amount of spicy. Whether you’re serving a crowd at a barbecue or enjoying a casual family dinner, this chili sauce transforms plain hot dogs into a nostalgic, diner-style treat. Best of all, it’s easy to make and stores well for future meals. Let’s get into the recipe!

Ingredients

For the Chili Sauce

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor for the chili sauce.

Step 3: Add the Tomato Base

Pour in the tomato sauce and stir to combine. The sauce will help create a smooth, cohesive texture and add a rich tomato flavor that complements the beef.

Step 4: Season the Chili Sauce

Add the Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices throughout the meat mixture. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper to your liking.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Reduce the heat to low and let the chili sauce simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the flavors meld together. The sauce should thicken slightly and develop a rich, hearty flavor.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon the hot dog chili sauce generously over hot dogs nestled in warm buns. Add your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, diced onions, or mustard for the ultimate chili dog experience.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for extra heat.
• Chunky Texture: Stir in a few tablespoons of diced tomatoes or bell peppers for added texture.
• Sweeter Sauce: Add a teaspoon of brown sugar or a splash of ketchup for a subtle sweetness.
• Vegan Option: Swap the ground beef for plant-based ground meat for a meat-free version.
• Thicker Sauce: Simmer uncovered for a longer period to reduce the sauce and concentrate the flavors.

Cooking Notes

• Ground Beef Fat Content: Lean ground beef (85% or 90%) works well for this recipe, but feel free to use what you have on hand. Drain excess grease if necessary.
• Consistency Tip: For a thinner sauce, add a splash of water or beef broth during simmering.
• Make Ahead: This chili sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Classic Hot Dog Chili Sauce is perfect for topping hot dogs, but don’t stop there! Try it on:

• Grilled sausages or brats
• Baked potatoes
• French fries for loaded chili cheese fries
• Nachos or tortilla chips for a quick appetizer
• Tacos or wraps for a fun twist

Pair it with sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or chips for a complete meal.

Tips

• Batch Cooking: Double the recipe for larger gatherings or freeze extra portions for later use.
• Chop Onions Finely: Finely diced onions melt into the sauce, giving it a smoother consistency.
• Flavor Boost: For deeper flavor, cook the onions a little longer until they caramelize slightly before adding garlic.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

FAQs

Can I freeze hot dog chili sauce?
Yes! Allow the sauce to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

Is this chili sauce spicy?
It has a mild spice level, but you can adjust the heat by adding more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the beef, transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours.

How long does the sauce keep?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, this chili sauce lasts up to 4 days.

Conclusion

This Classic Hot Dog Chili Sauce is the secret to taking your hot dogs from ordinary to unforgettable. It’s easy to make, loaded with flavor, and perfect for feeding a crowd at your next cookout or tailgate. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a casual weeknight dinner, this chili sauce is a must-try recipe that will keep everyone coming back for more. Give it a try and elevate your next hot dog night!

Print