Hot Dog Chili is one of those nostalgic, crowd-pleasing recipes that brings back memories of summer cookouts, ball games, and easy family dinners. The first time I made homemade hot dog chili, I couldn’t believe the difference it made , rich, meaty, perfectly seasoned, and thick enough to sit beautifully on top of a hot dog without sliding off. This style of chili is smooth, saucy, and deeply flavorful, made with finely crumbled beef, tomato sauce, and simple spices that simmer together into a silky chili topping. It’s the perfect recipe for weeknight dinners, parties, barbecues, or anytime you want classic American comfort food. Whether you prefer it mild, spicy, or slightly sweet, this Hot Dog Chili becomes an instant favorite you’ll want to keep on repeat.
This post contains Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Smooth, thick chili that clings perfectly to hot dogs
• Rich, classic flavor that tastes like old-fashioned diner chili
• Quick, simple ingredients and easy to prepare
• Perfect for parties, cookouts, game nights, or family dinners
• Works with hot dogs, burgers, fries, nachos, or baked potatoes
• Easy to customize, spicy, smoky, sweet, or mild
• Budget-friendly and makes a large batch
• Leftovers freeze beautifully for future meals
Ingredients
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp sugar
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp cayenne (optional)
Recommended Tools
Silicone Spoon Set – great for stirring without scratching the pot.
Measuring Cups & Spoons – helps you measure spices and liquids accurately.
Glass Storage Containers – perfect for storing leftovers safely.
Preparation Steps
STEP 1: BROWN THE MEAT
• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
• Add ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it into very fine crumbles.
• Add diced onion and garlic; cook 2–3 minutes until softened.
STEP 2: ADD SEASONINGS
• Stir in chili powder, paprika, cumin, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
• Cook spices for 1 minute to bloom flavor.
STEP 3: BUILD THE SAUCE
• Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, ketchup, and beef broth.
• Stir thoroughly so the mixture becomes smooth and even.
STEP 4: SIMMER
• Bring to a gentle simmer.
• Reduce heat and cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes until thickened.
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
STEP 5: SERVE
• Spoon the chili generously over hot dogs.
• Add cheese, onions, or any toppings you love.
If you enjoy easy recipes like this one, you might also love :
Cooking Notes
• Finely crumbled beef creates the classic smooth hot dog chili texture
• Simmer uncovered to thicken the sauce
• Add more broth if chili gets too thick
• Chili will thicken further as it cools
• Leftovers freeze extremely well
Variations
• Add Worcestershire sauce for depth
• Make it spicy with jalapeños or chipotle
• Add brown sugar for a sweeter Carolina-style chili
• Use ground turkey instead of beef
• Add a splash of vinegar for tang
• Mix in beans for a thicker serving chili
Serving Suggestions
• Spoon over grilled hot dogs
• Use as a topping for chili cheese fries
• Add to burgers or sloppy joes
• Serve over baked potatoes or rice bowls
• Use as a nacho topping with cheese and onions
Tips
• Use a potato masher to break beef into tiny crumbles
• Simmer longer for richer flavor
• Adjust sweetness, heat, and salt to taste
• Add broth slowly to control thickness
• Make ahead , flavor improves overnight
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Approx. 210 calories – 15g protein – 12g fat – 10g carbs
FAQs
What makes hot dog chili different from regular chili?
- Hot dog chili is smoother, thicker, and contains no beans. It’s designed to sit on top of hot dogs without falling off.
Can I make this chili spicier?
- Yes. Add cayenne, jalapeños, chipotle powder, or hot sauce depending on how spicy you want it.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
- Absolutely. Turkey works great , just add a splash of oil to keep it moist.
How do I thicken the chili if it’s too thin?
- Simmer uncovered longer or add a small spoon of tomato paste.
Does it freeze well?
- Yes! Freeze in portions and reheat quickly for easy meals.
Conclusion
Hot Dog Chili is a classic, flavorful, and incredibly versatile recipe that transforms simple hot dogs into something special. With its smooth, thick texture and rich blend of spices, it’s the perfect topping for backyard cookouts, family dinners, or casual gatherings. This chili is easy to make, customizable, budget-friendly, and loved by both kids and adults. Whether you serve it on hot dogs, fries, burgers, or baked potatoes, this chili delivers warm, comforting flavor every time.
