Crockpot Hot Dog Chili

If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful topping for your hot dogs, look no further than this Crockpot Hot Dog Chili recipe. Made with a blend of ground beef, spices, and tomato sauce, this chili is rich, hearty, and the perfect complement to your favorite hot dog. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can prepare this dish in advance and have it ready when it’s time to serve.

Ingredients for Crockpot Hot Dog Chili:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup water or beef broth
• 8 hot dog buns

Instructions for Crockpot Hot Dog Chili:

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Transfer to Crockpot: Once the beef and onions are browned, transfer the mixture to your Crockpot.
3. Add the Ingredients: To the Crockpot, add the tomato sauce, tomato paste, chili powder, sugar, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine everything evenly.
4. Add Liquid: Pour in the water or beef broth, and stir again to combine. This helps to create a smooth, pourable consistency for the chili.
5. Slow Cook: Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Serve: Once your chili is ready, spoon it generously over your hot dogs. You can top with your favorite condiments like shredded cheese, onions, or mustard.

Tips for the Best Crockpot Hot Dog Chili:

• Customize Your Chili: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. If you like it spicier, add more cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also experiment with adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This chili can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply reheat it when you’re ready to use.
• Serving Ideas: While this chili is perfect for hot dogs, it can also be served over burgers, fries, or even as a dip for nachos.

Why You’ll Love Crockpot Hot Dog Chili:

• Easy to Make: With the Crockpot doing most of the work, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare. Just brown the beef, toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it simmer for hours.
• Versatile: Not only is it great on hot dogs, but this chili can be used in a variety of other dishes, making it a great recipe to keep in your rotation.
• Tasty and Satisfying: The combination of ground beef, spices, and tomatoes results in a rich, flavorful chili that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Conclusion:

This Crockpot Hot Dog Chili is an easy and delicious way to elevate your hot dog game. Whether you’re hosting a casual barbecue, a game day party, or just enjoying a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone. With the slow cooker doing most of the work, you can enjoy a homemade, flavorful chili with minimal effort.

Serving Tips for Crockpot Hot Dog Chili:

1. Hot Dog Variations: While this chili pairs perfectly with classic beef hot dogs, you can mix things up by using turkey dogs, chicken sausage, or even veggie dogs for a different twist. The chili complements all types of hot dogs!
2. Toppings Galore: Customize your hot dogs with a variety of toppings. Try adding shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, jalapeños, or even a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor. Crumbled bacon and chopped pickles can also make great additions.
3. Chili Bowls: If you have extra chili, you can serve it on its own in bowls as a hearty chili dish. Top with shredded cheese, diced onions, and tortilla chips for a fun and casual meal.
4. Pair with Sides: Serve your hot dogs with classic sides like potato salad, coleslaw, or French fries. The chili will add a rich, savory element to your meal that pairs well with crunchy or creamy sides.

Storage Tips for Crockpot Hot Dog Chili:

1. Refrigeration: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to let the chili cool to room temperature before refrigerating it to maintain its quality.
2. Freezing: Crockpot Hot Dog Chili can be frozen for up to 3 months. Divide it into smaller portions for easier thawing. To freeze, transfer the chili to freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
3. Reheating: Reheat the chili on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. If the chili is too thick after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

By following these serving and storage tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your Crockpot Hot Dog Chili beyond the first meal, keeping it fresh and delicious for days!

1. Can I make Crockpot Hot Dog Chili ahead of time? Yes! This chili is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it in the Crockpot and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I make this recipe without ground beef? Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version. The chili will still be flavorful with these alternatives.

3. How can I make my Crockpot Hot Dog Chili spicier? If you like heat, you can add more cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce. You can also include chopped fresh jalapeños or chili flakes to give it an extra kick.

4. Can I serve this chili with other dishes besides hot dogs? Yes! This chili is versatile and can be served over burgers, baked potatoes, fries, or even as a dip for nachos and tortilla chips. It’s also great in a bowl with toppings like cheese and sour cream.

Print