Name: Crockpot Hot Dog Chili
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-484730H15M24S
Total time: PT-484730H15M24S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (use a lean cut like 90/10); ⅓ cup water; 5 ounces tomato sauce; ½ cup ketchup; 1 Tablespoon yellow mustard; 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 2 teaspoons chili powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon sugar; ½ teaspoon onion powder or minced onion

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There’s something about a perfectly topped hot dog that just hits the spot. And trust me, once you try this crockpot hot dog chili, you’ll never go back to store-bought versions again. This chili is rich, meaty, and full of bold flavors that take your hot dog game to the next level. Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to make just toss everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic. Whether you’re prepping for a game day feast, a backyard barbecue, or just craving a comforting classic, this recipe is a total game-changer.

Why You’ll Love Crockpot Hot Dog Chili

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.

Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.

Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.

Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.

Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Crockpot Hot Dog Chili

Here’s the magic of this chili it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:

Ground Beef: The heart of this chili. Cooking it low and slow in the crockpot makes it extra tender and flavorful.

Tomato Sauce: Gives the chili a rich, velvety texture and deep tomato flavor that blends perfectly with the spices.

Tomato Paste: Thickens the chili and adds an extra layer of concentrated tomato goodness.

Onion: Adds a hint of sweetness and depth to the chili. Dice it finely so it melts right into the sauce.

Garlic: Because every great chili needs a little garlicky kick. Freshly minced garlic brings out the best in the other flavors.

Chili Powder: The key spice that gives this chili its signature warmth. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.

Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that enhances the overall flavor.

Cumin: Brings a slightly earthy, nutty taste that rounds out the chili’s seasoning blend.

Brown Sugar: A little sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Mustard: A secret ingredient that adds a tangy zing to the chili.

Worcestershire Sauce: Deepens the umami flavor and makes everything taste richer.

Salt & Pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.

Instructions

Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease.

Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for a few minutes until softened and fragrant.

Combine in the Crockpot: Transfer the beef mixture to the crockpot. Add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, chili powder, paprika, cumin, brown sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the chili and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve and Enjoy: Spoon generously over hot dogs, burgers, or even fries. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8 Calories per serving: 220

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 4 hours (on low) or 2 hours (on high) Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes

How to Serve Crockpot Hot Dog Chili

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.

Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious sauces or juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.

Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a creamy dip to complement the dish’s flavor profile.

Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots, zucchini, or asparagus, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.

As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a finishing touch.

Additional Tips

Prep Ahead: Save time by chopping and measuring ingredients the night before. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh.

Spice It Up: Experiment with spices like cayenne pepper, turmeric, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique twist.

Dietary Adjustments: If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, swap regular beef for turkey or a plant-based alternative.

Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge. Reheat gently to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.

Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch. Having a homemade meal ready in the freezer can be a lifesaver on busy days.

FAQ Section

Can I substitute ground beef with another protein? Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well, but it may have a slightly different texture.
Can I make this chili ahead of time? Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze this dish? Yes! Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to reheat this chili? Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.
Can I add beans? You can, but traditional hot dog chili is bean-free for a smoother texture.
Can I make this spicier? Definitely! Add cayenne pepper or extra chili powder to increase the heat.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, but you’ll need to blend them for a smoother consistency.
What’s the best hot dog to use? Any good-quality beef hot dog will work perfectly with this chili.
Can I use this chili for something other than hot dogs? Absolutely! It’s great on fries, burgers, or even as a nacho topping.

This crockpot hot dog chili is a game-changer for any gathering or weeknight meal. It’s rich, flavorful, and ridiculously easy to make. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll never go back to store-bought chili again!

Why You’ll Love Crockpot Hot Dog Chili

Ingredients in Crockpot Hot Dog Chili

Instructions

Nutrition Facts

Preparation Time

How to Serve Crockpot Hot Dog Chili

Additional Tips

FAQ Section

Crockpot Hot Dog Chili

Description

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition