Imagine the sizzle of hot dogs on the grill, the laughter of friends and family gathered around, and the aroma of savory Crockpot Hot Dog Chili wafting through the air. This recipe is not just any chili—it’s a hearty, flavorful topping that takes your hot dogs from ordinary to extraordinary. Join us as we explore how to make this delicious chili in your crockpot, perfect for summer cookouts, game day gatherings, or any occasion where good food and good company come together.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (use a lean cut like 90/10)
- 1/3 cup water
- 5 ounces tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder or minced onion
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef
- Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Break it into small pieces with a spatula and cook until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer to the Crockpot
- Once the ground beef is browned, transfer it to your crockpot. Add water, tomato sauce, ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, salt, black pepper, sugar, and onion powder (or minced onion). Stir everything together until well combined.
- Cook Low and Slow
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 4 to 6 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the chili to thicken beautifully. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust Seasonings
- After a few hours of cooking, taste the chili and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or chili powder according to your personal preference. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can cook it uncovered for the last hour.
- Serve Hot and Enjoy
- Once the chili is done cooking, it’s time to serve! Ladle it generously over grilled hot dogs nestled in soft buns. Garnish with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, chopped onions, jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream.
Cook’s Tips
- Make Ahead: You can brown the ground beef and prepare the other ingredients the night before. Store them in the refrigerator overnight, and in the morning, simply transfer everything to the crockpot and set it to cook.
- Freeze for Later: Crockpot Hot Dog Chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Nutritional Benefits
Crockpot Hot Dog Chili offers a balance of protein from the ground beef, vitamins from tomato sauce, and essential flavors from spices. It’s a hearty and satisfying addition to your meal, providing energy and nutrients.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or add extra beans like kidney beans or black beans for a meat-free version.
- Spicy Twist: Increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their chili.
Serving Suggestions
Crockpot Hot Dog Chili is incredibly versatile. Here are a few delicious ways to enjoy it:
- Chili Cheese Dogs: Serve over grilled hot dogs with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese.
- Chili Cheese Fries: Spoon over crispy fries and top with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream.
- Loaded Baked Potatoes: Use as a hearty topping for baked potatoes, along with butter, cheese, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions.
Experience the joy of making and serving Crockpot Hot Dog Chili—a recipe that brings together bold flavors and comfort in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, celebrating game day with friends, or simply craving a cozy meal at home, this chili is sure to please. Share the love of homemade comfort food with your loved ones and enjoy the delightful simplicity of this classic dish.
Enjoy preparing and serving Crockpot Hot Dog Chili, and savor the delicious flavors it brings to your table!
