Crockpot Hot Dog Chili 🌭 – A Backyard BBQ Essential

When summer rolls around and the grill is hot, there’s one simple upgrade that turns an ordinary hot dog into a drool-worthy backyard classic: homemade hot dog chili. This Crockpot Hot Dog Chili recipe is the secret sauce to unforgettable cookouts—savory, tangy, a little sweet, and absolutely perfect spooned over juicy grilled hot dogs (or just about anything else).

Forget canned chili. This version is made with lean ground beef, tomato sauce, ketchup, and classic chili spices, simmered low and slow in the crockpot to let all the flavors blend beautifully. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just spicing up dinner, this chili is guaranteed to be the hit of the party.

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🌭 Why This Hot Dog Chili Recipe Works

• Simple Ingredients: Everything on this list is likely already in your pantry or fridge.
• Crockpot Convenience: Set it and forget it—this recipe takes just 10 minutes of prep.
• Rich, Classic Flavor: Slightly sweet, tangy, and not too spicy—just like the old-school drive-in kind.
• Versatile Uses: Spoon it over hot dogs, chili cheese fries, burgers, nachos, or baked potatoes.
• Crowd Favorite: Makes enough for a party but freezes great in smaller batches, too!

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🛒 Ingredient Spotlight

Let’s take a closer look at the flavorful yet fuss-free ingredients that make this hot dog chili a must-have.

🔹 1 Pound Ground Beef (90/10 Lean)

Using lean beef ensures a hearty texture without excess grease. If you use a higher-fat mix, be sure to drain thoroughly before transferring to the crockpot.

🔹 1/3 Cup Water

Helps break the beef into fine, tender crumbles during cooking—essential for that classic chili dog texture.

🔹 5 Ounces Tomato Sauce

Adds depth, color, and tomato richness without being too “saucy.”

🔹 1/2 Cup Ketchup

Adds sweetness and tang. It helps balance the savory spices with a mild acidity.

🔹 1 Tablespoon Yellow Mustard

This sharp, zesty flavor is key to the nostalgic hot dog stand taste.

🔹 1 Tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce

Adds umami depth and rounds out the beefy flavor.

🔹 2 Teaspoons Chili Powder

Mild heat and earthiness. You can always adjust based on preference.

🔹 1/2 Teaspoon Salt + 1/2 Teaspoon Black Pepper

Basic but essential seasoning.

🔹 1/2 Teaspoon Sugar

Balances acidity and enhances the overall sauce.

🔹 1/2 Teaspoon Onion Powder (or minced onion)

Adds subtle sweetness and savoriness—perfect for a no-chop recipe.

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👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a medium skillet over medium heat, combine the ground beef and water. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the meat into fine crumbles while it cooks. This technique gives the chili its signature texture.

Step 2: Drain the Fat

Once the beef is cooked through, drain off any remaining water and grease. The leaner the meat, the less fat you’ll need to remove.

Step 3: Transfer to Crockpot

Pour the cooked beef into your slow cooker insert.

Step 4: Add the Flavor

Add the rest of the ingredients:

• Tomato sauce
• Ketchup
• Yellow mustard
• Worcestershire sauce
• Chili powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Sugar
• Onion powder

Stir everything together until well combined and smooth.

Step 5: Let It Simmer

Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 2 to 2½ hours. Stir occasionally if possible, though it’s mostly hands-off. The slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and deepen.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Once the chili is hot and bubbling, it’s ready to serve! Spoon it generously over:

• Grilled hot dogs
• Crispy French fries
• Cheeseburgers
• Loaded baked potatoes
• Nachos or Frito pies

Pro Tip: For best hot dog results, steam or grill your buns, toast them lightly, then load up with chili, cheese, onions, and mustard.

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🍟 Creative Serving Ideas

Dish	How to Use Hot Dog Chili
🌭 Classic Chili Dogs	Spoon over hot dogs with diced onions and shredded cheese
🍔 Burgers	Add to cheeseburgers for a messy, meaty upgrade
🍟 Chili Cheese Fries	Layer over fries with melted cheddar and jalapeños
🥔 Baked Potatoes	Spoon into fluffy baked potatoes with sour cream
🌮 Walking Tacos	Add to a bag of Fritos or Doritos and eat with a fork

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🔁 Recipe Variations & Substitutions

Option	Description
Spicy Kick	Add a pinch of cayenne, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños
Sweeter Chili	Increase sugar to 1 tsp or use a sweeter ketchup
Turkey Version	Use ground turkey for a leaner, lighter flavor
Smoky Flavor	Add a dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika
Extra Chunky	Mix in finely diced bell peppers or tomatoes

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❄️ Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in individual portions or a batch-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Gently warm in a saucepan or microwave. Add a splash of water or ketchup if it thickens too much.

Meal Prep Tip: Make a double batch and freeze for BBQs, tailgates, or weeknight dinners!

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🤔 Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I double this recipe?
Yes! It scales beautifully. Use a 6-quart crockpot for best results and add 30–60 minutes to the cook time.

Q: Can I skip the mustard or ketchup?
Ketchup and mustard give this chili its signature hot dog stand flavor. If you prefer a more traditional chili, reduce them slightly rather than omit completely.

Q: Is this chili spicy?
Not at all—it’s mild and kid-friendly. You can adjust spice levels by adding hot sauce or chili flakes.

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