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The BEST Hot Dog Chili Recipe

4.6 from 138 reviews

This delicious hot dog chili recipe combines lean ground beef with a rich tomato base, enhanced by a blend of classic chili spices. Perfectly simmered to develop deep flavors, this chili is ideal for topping hot dogs or serving alongside your favorite dishes.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 6-oz can tomato paste
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 teaspoons pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 lb lean ground chuck (90/10 or leaner)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Onions: Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced small onion and sauté for about 5 minutes or until the onions turn golden and soft.
  2. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the garlic to release its aroma without burning.
  3. Cook Tomato Paste: Add the 6-ounce can of tomato paste to the saucepan. Stir continuously and cook for 2-3 minutes until the paste begins to brown slightly on the bottom of the pan, enhancing its flavor.
  4. Add Liquids and Spices: Pour in 2 cups of water to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Add chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and combined.
  5. Add Ground Beef: Incorporate 1 pound of lean ground chuck into the saucepan. Use a whisk or fork to break the meat up and blend it evenly into the sauce. Bring the mixture to a low boil over medium heat.
  6. Simmer Covered: Cover the saucepan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the chili simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to allow flavors to meld.
  7. Simmer Uncovered: Remove the lid and continue simmering the chili for another 30 minutes uncovered, stirring occasionally until the chili thickens to your desired consistency.
  8. Keep Warm: Once thickened, cover the chili again to keep it warm until ready to serve, perfect for topping hot dogs or serving as a flavorful side dish.

Notes

  • For a spicier chili, increase the cayenne pepper to taste.
  • Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content and keep the chili healthier.
  • If you prefer a thicker chili, simmer uncovered longer until desired thickness is achieved.
  • This chili can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
  • Serve with your favorite hot dog buns, shredded cheese, and onions for a classic hot dog topping.

Keywords: hot dog chili, chili sauce, ground beef chili, easy chili recipe, stovetop chili, lean ground chuck chili