Crockpot Hot Dog Chili

Introduction

Hot dogs have long been a beloved staple at summer barbecues and family gatherings, but they often need a little something extra to truly shine. Enter this Crockpot Hot Dog Chili—a hearty, flavorful topping that transforms the humble hot dog into a culinary delight. The first time I made this chili, my family couldn’t get enough of it. It’s rich, savory, and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether served at a casual backyard barbecue or a cozy game night, this chili is always a crowd-pleaser. The best part? It simmers in the crockpot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you focus on other things.

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

1. Prepare the Ground Beef: In a medium skillet over medium heat, combine the ground beef and water. Break up the ground beef into fine pieces while cooking, stirring occasionally.
2. Drain Excess Fat: Once the beef is browned and cooked through, drain off any remaining water or grease from the skillet.
3. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the cooked ground beef to your slow cooker. Add all the remaining ingredients to the slow cooker with the ground beef and stir together until well combined.
4. Cook the Chili: Cover and let cook on LOW for 2 to 2.5 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve: Once cooked, serve the hot dog chili on top of your favorite hot dogs, french fries, or burgers.
6. Enjoy: Savor the deliciousness of this crockpot hot dog chili with your favorite summer meals!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories: Approximately 230 kcal per serving

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes

How to Serve

• Hot Dogs: Serve the chili generously over grilled or steamed hot dogs in a bun.
• French Fries: Drizzle or spoon the chili over crispy French fries for a delicious twist on chili cheese fries.
• Burgers: Use as a topping for burgers for an extra layer of flavor.
• Chili Bowls: Serve it on its own in bowls, garnished with cheese, onions, or sour cream.
• Side Dishes: Pair with cornbread or coleslaw for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

1. Meat Choices: While ground beef works best, you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
2. Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder and add jalapeños for extra heat if desired.
3. Make Ahead: Prepare the chili a day in advance; the flavors develop even more after resting.
4. Garnishes: Fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, or diced onions make excellent toppings.
5. Thicker Chili: If you prefer a thicker chili, reduce the amount of water or add a little extra cornstarch mixed with water.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or black beans for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Chili: Add diced green chilies or extra chili powder for a spicy kick.
• BBQ Flavor: Mix in your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor profile.
• Cheesy Chili: Stir in shredded cheese towards the end of cooking for a cheesy variation.

Serving Suggestions

• Game Day: This chili is perfect for game day parties—serve it with hot dogs and chips for a fun snack spread.
• Picnic: Pack it in thermoses for a picnic, along with buns and toppings.
• Family Dinners: Pair with simple sides like a garden salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: The chili freezes well! Just place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this chili in advance?

• Yes, it can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a day or two.

1. What can I serve with hot dog chili?

• It pairs well with hot dogs, fries, burgers, cornbread, and coleslaw.

1. Can I use different meats?

• Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option.

1. How do I make it spicier?

• Add more chili powder or fresh jalapeños to increase the heat level.

1. Can I make this chili vegetarian?

• Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or beans.

1. How do I store leftovers?

• Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

1. Can I freeze this chili?

• Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months.

1. How do I reheat frozen chili?

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

1. Can I use fresh ingredients instead of canned?

• Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes and beef broth instead of canned products.

1. What toppings do you recommend?

• Shredded cheese, chopped onions, or fresh herbs like cilantro are great options!

Conclusion

Crockpot Hot Dog Chili is more than just a topping; it’s a versatile and flavorful addition to any meal. Its simplicity and robust flavor make it an easy choice for busy nights, family gatherings, or summertime barbecues. You’ll find that once you make this chili, it will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation. The ability to customize it according to your tastes makes it a hit with everyone, whether you’re serving it on hot dogs, fries, or burgers. So, grab your ingredients, set your crockpot, and get ready to elevate your hot dog game with this delightful dish! Enjoy!

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