Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce

If you’re looking for a chili sauce that perfectly complements your hot dog, you’ve just found the one! This Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce is a local favorite that packs a punch with its rich, savory flavor. It’s the kind of chili sauce you’ll want to drizzle over your hot dog, burgers, fries, and even baked potatoes. It’s a thick, meaty sauce that’s just bursting with flavor—slightly spicy, a little tangy, and so hearty it could almost stand alone as a meal. Trust me, once you try this, regular store-bought chili won’t even come close. So grab your hot dogs and get ready to elevate your BBQ game with this classic Southern West Virginia recipe.

Why You’ll Love Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce

This isn’t just any chili sauce. Here’s why it’s going to steal the show:

Rich and Flavorful:

The base of this chili sauce is packed with savory goodness. It combines spices and ingredients that give it a depth of flavor that will make your taste buds do a happy dance. From the ground beef to the tangy vinegar kick, each bite is a burst of savory satisfaction.

Perfect for Hot Dogs (and More!):

While this sauce is traditionally served on hot dogs, it’s so versatile. Try it on burgers, fries, or even on a bowl of mac ‘n’ cheese for an extra layer of deliciousness. It’s that good!

Simple, Pantry-Friendly Ingredients:

No need to hunt down exotic ingredients—this chili sauce is made with simple items you likely already have in your kitchen. It’s easy, approachable, and totally budget-friendly.

Ideal for a Crowd:

Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just making a quick dinner, this chili sauce is a crowd-pleaser. It’s the kind of recipe that guarantees compliments and requests for the recipe. It’s perfect for big gatherings or family nights.

Quick and Easy:

This chili sauce comes together quickly, making it the perfect go-to recipe for busy days when you still want to impress. Just simmer and serve!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this tasty Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce:

For the Chili Sauce:

• Ground beef (or ground turkey if you prefer)
• Onion
• Garlic
• Tomato paste
• Tomato sauce
• Apple cider vinegar
• Worcestershire sauce
• Chili powder
• Paprika
• Ground cumin
• Ground cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Water

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Ready to make this mouthwatering chili sauce? Let’s get started:

Cook the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet or saucepan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Sauté the Aromatics:

Add the finely chopped onion and garlic to the pan with the beef. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant.

Add the Tomato and Seasonings:

Stir in the tomato paste, tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, paprika, ground cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

Simmer the Sauce:

Add the water to the pan and bring the sauce to a simmer. Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken and develop deeper flavors as it cooks.

Taste and Adjust:

Once the sauce has thickened, taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add a pinch more salt, vinegar, or chili powder, depending on your preference for tanginess and spice.

Serve:

Once the sauce is ready, it’s time to serve! Spoon it generously over your favorite hot dogs, and maybe even top with some shredded cheese or chopped onions for the ultimate hot dog experience.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on 8 servings):

Calories per serving: 180
Total Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 480mg
Total Carbohydrates: 6g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 12g
Vitamin D: 0mcg
Calcium: 20mg
Iron: 2mg
Potassium: 250mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce

This chili sauce is made to be piled high on hot dogs, but there are many ways to enjoy it:

On Hot Dogs:

Of course, the classic way is to drizzle this chili sauce over a hot dog. You can add all your favorite toppings like mustard, onions, cheese, or even some crunchy pickle slices.

With Fries:

Serve the chili sauce over crispy French fries for a Southern-inspired take on chili cheese fries. It’s perfect for a quick snack or a hearty side dish.

On Burgers:

Top your burger with a generous scoop of this chili sauce for a bold, savory twist on the classic burger.

On Baked Potatoes:

This chili sauce works wonders as a topping for baked potatoes. Add a dollop of sour cream and maybe some shredded cheese, and you’ve got yourself a filling meal.

On Mac ‘n’ Cheese:

For a fun twist, spoon the chili sauce over creamy mac and cheese. The spicy, tangy sauce contrasts wonderfully with the creamy pasta.

Additional Tips

Make it Spicier:

If you like your chili sauce with a little more heat, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or even add some chopped jalapeños to the sauce.

Make It Ahead:

This chili sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make a big batch and use it throughout the week on hot dogs, burgers, fries, and more.

Freeze Leftovers:

Got extra chili sauce? You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat it when you’re ready to use it.

Adjust the Consistency:

If you prefer a thicker chili sauce, you can simmer it for longer to reduce it. If you want a thinner sauce, simply add a bit more water during the simmering process.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

A1: Absolutely! Ground turkey will work just fine if you prefer a leaner option. The sauce will still be flavorful and delicious.

Q2: Can I make this chili sauce vegetarian?

A2: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative, such as lentils or crumbled tempeh.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?

A3: Store any leftover chili sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy.

Q4: Can I make this chili sauce spicier?

A4: Of course! Add more cayenne pepper or chili powder, or even some chopped fresh jalapeños to kick up the heat.

Q5: Can I use this chili sauce on anything other than hot dogs?

A5: Yes! This chili sauce is great on burgers, fries, baked potatoes, and even mac ‘n’ cheese. It’s super versatile!

Q6: Can I freeze this chili sauce?

A6: Yes, you can freeze the chili sauce for up to 3 months. Just let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag.

Q7: Can I add beans to the chili sauce?

A7: Sure! If you like beans in your chili, feel free to add some cooked kidney beans or black beans to the sauce for added texture and flavor.

Q8: How long does it take for the sauce to thicken?

A8: The sauce will take about 20-30 minutes to simmer and thicken. If you want a thicker consistency, just let it cook a little longer.

Q9: Can I adjust the sweetness of the chili sauce?

A9: Yes! If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add a small amount of brown sugar or honey. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance.

Q10: What’s the best way to serve this chili sauce at a party?

A10: You can keep the chili sauce warm in a slow cooker and serve it with a hot dog bar, complete with all your favorite toppings. It’s the perfect casual and fun party dish!

Conclusion

This Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce is the perfect way to add a burst of flavor to your hot dogs and more. It’s rich, savory, and oh-so-satisfying—guaranteed to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re grilling out, having a casual dinner, or just in the mood for something hearty, this chili sauce is sure to become your new go-to. Enjoy!

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