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–+ servings
Close-up of a hot dog in a bun with chili, mustard, and chopped onions.
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Hot Dog Chili

This recipe is a quick and flavorful topping that transforms ordinary hot dogs into a crowd-pleasing meal.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Football
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 168kcal
Author: Katie

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • ⅓ cup water
  • 5 ounces tomato sauce
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 2 ½ teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste for heat levels
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Cook meat. Heat a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease from the pan if necessary.
    Two images showing ground beef in a skillet, one raw and one cooked.
  • Add liquids and seasonings. Add the water, tomato sauce, ketchup, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
    Two images showing ground beef in a skillet with tomato sauce, ketchup, and spices added, and the final chili mixture.
  • Simmer. Mix well to incorporate all the spices. Allow the mixture to simmer over low heat for approximately 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste to adjust the seasoning as needed.
    Skillet filled with cooked hot dog chili, surrounded by hot dog buns, shredded cheese, and condiments.
  • Serve. Serve the hot dog chili with your favorite hot dogs and toppings such as chopped onions, yellow mustard and shredded cheese.
    A hot dog topped with chili, mustard, and chopped onions on a bun, served with potato chips on a plate.

Notes

The hot dog chili can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. It also freezes well, so feel free to make a big batch and freeze portions for later use. To freeze, allow the chili to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags to containers. The chili can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. 
For a leaner option, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

Nutrition

Calories: 168kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 10g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 40mg | Sodium: 269mg | Potassium: 271mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 387IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 2mg