Detroit-Style Coney Chili Recipe

Introduction

Detroit-Style Coney Chili is a regional treasure that transforms a regular hot dog into a savory, satisfying classic. With Greek and Macedonian roots, this meaty chili is famous for its unique blend of spices and smooth, sauce-like consistency—far different from traditional chili. It’s the signature topping for the iconic Coney Dog, a Detroit favorite that’s all about that rich, spiced meat sauce generously poured over a hot dog in a steamed bun.

Whether you’re recreating a nostalgic dish or discovering it for the first time, this recipe delivers that authentic Motor City flavor straight to your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it into fine crumbles for that signature Coney texture. Once fully browned, drain off any excess fat.

Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic

Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent, releasing their sweetness into the beef.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Add the tomato paste, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Stir well and cook for another 2 minutes to let the spices bloom and deepen in flavor.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Stir in Worcestershire sauce and yellow mustard for that classic Detroit tang, then pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Stir thoroughly until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chili simmer gently for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial to achieving the thick, smooth consistency and layered flavor of traditional Coney chili.

Step 6: Adjust & Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot over grilled hot dogs in steamed buns, or spoon over fries, burgers, or even nachos.

Variations

• Turkey or Veggie Option: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative.
• Smoky Upgrade: Add a dash of liquid smoke or chipotle powder for a smoky depth.
• Sweeter Finish: Some variations include a teaspoon of brown sugar for a hint of sweetness.

Cooking Note

This chili is traditionally fine-textured and thick, not chunky. Be sure to break up the beef well during cooking, and let the sauce reduce slowly to achieve that authentic consistency.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve on top of grilled beef hot dogs in steamed buns, finished with chopped onions and yellow mustard for the full Coney Dog experience.
• Use it as a topping for loaded fries, baked potatoes, or sliders.
• It’s also delicious as a dip with tortilla chips or spooned over mac and cheese.

Tips

• Make Ahead: This chili gets even better after a day or two in the fridge. Perfect for prepping in advance.
• Double Up: Make a big batch and freeze portions for quick future meals.
• Consistency: If your chili thickens too much, add a splash of beef broth to loosen it up.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

45 minutes

Total Time:

55 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per 1/4 cup serving, approximate):

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbs: 5g
• Sodium: 480mg

FAQs

Q: Is Detroit Coney chili spicy?
A: It has a mild heat from chili and cayenne pepper, but it’s more flavorful than spicy. You can increase the heat to your liking.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Brown the beef first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours.

Q: Can I freeze leftover Coney chili?
A: Absolutely. Cool completely and store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Detroit-Style Coney Chili is an all-American classic with bold spices and an irresistible meaty texture that takes any hot dog from ordinary to outstanding. Whether you’re throwing a game-day party or just need a quick weeknight dinner idea, this chili has you covered. Try it once, and you’ll keep coming back for more!

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