Jeff's Hot Dog Chili

Chili dogs, anyone? This easy homemade hot dog chili recipe is so much better than the canned stuff. 

How to Make Hot Dog Chili

You'll find a detailed ingredient list and step-by-step instructions in the hot dog chili recipe below, but let's go over the basics:

Hot Dog Chili vs. Regular Chili

Hot dog chili tends to be slightly sweeter than regular chili that you’d eat from a bowl. Also, it’s usually made with ketchup.

Hot Dog Chili Ingredients

These are the budget-friendly ingredients you’ll need to make this homemade hot dog chili recipe (you may even have most of them on hand):

• Beef: This hot dog chili recipe starts with one pound of ground beef. 
• Water: Cook the ground beef with ⅓ cup of water. 
• Tomato products: You’ll need tomato sauce and ketchup for the best flavor. 
• Seasonings: The hot dog chili is seasoned with chili powder, salt, black pepper, and onion powder. 
• Worcestershire sauce: A dash of Worcestershire sauce takes the flavor up a notch. 
• Sugar: A pinch of sugar lends subtle sweetness. 

Tip from orion3: You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef. Just add a little oil to the saucepan before cooking.

How to Make Homemade Hot Dog Chili

Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect when you make this hot dog chili recipe: 

1. Cook the beef in water. 
2. Stir in the remaining ingredients and bring to a boil.
3. Simmer until the beef is cooked and the chili is thick.

How to Make Hot Dogs

Now that you have your homemade hot dog chili, all you need is a hot dog! Check out our How to Cook Hot Dogs 8 Different Ways guide to learn how to make hot dogs on the grill, on the stove (by boiling or  pan-frying), in the microwave, in the oven, in the slow cooker, in the air fryer, and in the Instant Pot. 

How to Store Hot Dog Chili?

Store your leftover hot dog chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave, on the stove, or in the slow cooker. 

Can You Freeze Hot Dog Chili?

Yes, you can freeze hot dog chili for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating thoroughly. 

Allrecipes Community Tips and Praise

“This recipe reminded me of eating hot dogs with chili at the baseball field growing up,” according to one Allrecipes community member. “I can’t have hot dogs now without making this delicious simple recipe to go on top. My buddies have all raved about it and love it!

“Have been making this for several years,” says Chris Hopkins. “If you like your chili a bit on the sweet side (as I do), this is the recipe for you, I add a half teaspoon of garlic salt. Always awesome on a dog with a cold beer!”

“Best hot dog chili I’ve ever had. Ever,” raves macinnis_family. “The only thing I changed was I added a little chopped onion. Will be the only chili recipe I ever use.”

Editorial contributions by Corey Williams