Easy Hot Dog Chili Recipe

Name: Easy Hot Dog Chili Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce; 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Homestyle Comfort Plates

Transform your hot dogs into a flavor-packed delight with this Easy Hot Dog Chili recipe. This simple yet delicious chili is made from scratch, featuring savory ground beef, zesty spices, and rich tomato sauce that perfectly complements your favorite franks. Perfect for game day, barbecues, or a cozy family dinner, this dish adds a hearty twist to classic hot dogs and is sure to be a hit with everyone.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2025-12-02T05:00:00.029Z

This Easy Hot Dog Chili recipe is not just ordinary chili; it's a transformative experience for your hot dogs. Packed with rich flavors, it's a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

The Perfect Game Day Dish

Game day gatherings are all about great food that brings people together, and this Easy Hot Dog Chili is the ideal choice. Its rich, savory flavor profile complements the classic hot dog, creating a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it's also a dish that can be made ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen.

By serving this chili alongside hot dogs, you can encourage your friends and family to customize their meals with toppings like shredded cheese, diced onions, or jalapeños. This interactive dining experience enhances the festive atmosphere, making every bite a unique experience. Plus, the aromas that waft through your kitchen while the chili simmers will get everyone's taste buds tingling long before the food hits the table.

An Easy Weeknight Meal

Busy weeknights call for recipes that are both quick and easy to prepare, and this Easy Hot Dog Chili fits the bill perfectly. With only a handful of ingredients and simple cooking steps, you can have a hearty, homemade meal ready in no time. The best part? Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a great option for lunch or a quick dinner on the go.

This chili is also versatile. Whether you prefer serving it over a baked potato, with tortilla chips for a nacho twist, or simply tucked in a bun, it's a dish that adapts to your family's preferences. It's comforting, filling, and can satisfy even the heartiest of appetites without complicated preparation, making it a staple in any household.

Customizing Your Chili

One of the greatest aspects of making chili is the ability to customize it to fit your taste. For those who enjoy a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix. You can also experiment with different types of beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, or even add corn for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

If you're looking to make this recipe vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or a combination of lentils and mushrooms. This way, you can maintain that savory depth of flavor while catering to various dietary preferences. Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own; there are countless ways to personalize your hot dog chili to keep things fresh and exciting.

Ingredients

Hot Dog Chili Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients combine to make a delicious sauce that will turn your hot dogs into a delightful meal.

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables and Spices

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.

Combine with Sauce

Add the kidney beans, tomato sauce, and tomato paste to the skillet. Stir to combine all ingredients.

Simmer the Chili

Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Serve this delicious chili over hot dogs and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Easy Hot Dog Chili, the possibilities are nearly endless. Pair it with your favorite hot dogs in a bun for the ultimate classic combo, or serve it in bowls for a comforting chili experience. Don't forget to offer a variety of toppings to elevate the meal, such as diced onions, shredded cheese, sour cream, and sliced avocados. This allows everyone to tailor their dishes to their liking, creating a fun and interactive dining experience.

For a side dish, consider cornbread, slaw, or tortilla chips, which provide a nice contrast to the hearty chili. You can even set up a chili bar, where guests can choose their favorite toppings and sides, making your gathering both memorable and enjoyable. With a little creativity, your hot dog chili feast will be a hit!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, you’re in luck! Hot dog chili stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This makes it an excellent dish for meal prepping, as you can simply heat it up throughout the week for a quick lunch or dinner. Just make sure to let the chili cool completely before storing it to preserve its rich flavors.

When it’s time to reheat, you can use a microwave or stovetop. If using the stovetop, heat it gently over low heat while stirring occasionally to ensure it warms evenly. You can also add a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick after refrigeration. Enjoying homemade chili has never been easier!

Nutritional Benefits

Besides being delicious, this Easy Hot Dog Chili has its share of nutritional benefits, particularly from the kidney beans. Packed with protein and fiber, beans help support digestive health and keep you feeling full longer. Ground beef adds iron and essential nutrients, making this dish not just a satisfying meal but also a nourishing one.

Additionally, the use of onions and garlic not only enhances the flavor but also offers health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and immune support. By choosing quality ingredients, you can feel good about serving this chili to your family while still enjoying a comforting classic that brings joy to the dinner table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this chili ahead of time?

Yes! This chili can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

→ What kind of hot dogs work best?

Any type of hot dogs will work, but beef hot dogs complement the chili best.