Name: Easy Hot Dog Chili
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chuck or turkey; 1 packet chili seasoning; 1/2 cup water; 1 cup ketchup; 1/4 cup minced onion; 1 teaspoon sugar ((can omit if desired)); dash of hot sauce or worchestershire; salt & pepper to taste

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If you love hot dogs, you have to try my Easy Hot Dog Chili which comes together in a flash. It's great on hotdogs, nachos, loaded fries, and even hamburgers!

two hot dogs with creamy coleslaw and chili on top

Why This Recipe is Special

As far back as I can remember, folks have been asking for my hot dog chili recipe. The first person who ever asked for it was my mother-in-law. She loved my chili more than anything and begged me to bring it to every family picnic.

When July the 4th or Labor Day rolls around, I whip up Easy Hot Dog Chili in less than 20 minutes and have it waiting on the dogs to grill. I always think of Mareta and wish she was here to take a big bite!

Does Hot Dog Chili Have Beans In It?

No way! In true southern tradition, this recipe is made without beans of any shape or kind. It's a condiment (or sauce) more than it is a meal.

This recipe is sweeter than the type you eat in a bowl like Campfire Chili. Folks around here are so crazy about chili, they even eat it on a Carolina Burger with mustard, slaw, and onions. Man, is that ever good!

Ingredients You'll Need

ground chuck or turkey
chili seasoning mix
water
ketchup
onion
sugar
hot sauce or worchestershire
salt & pepper

ingredients for hot dog chili including hamburger, ketchup, onion and chili seasoning

How to Make Hot Dog Chili

Brown ground beef or turkey in a skillet. Drain grease. Add chili seasoning and water. Stir and simmer until thickened (about 5 minutes). Use a large fork to break up any big chunks of meat. It should be as fine as possible.

Fold in ketchup, onion and sugar. Stir well and cook for 10 minutes over medium low heat until meat is tender.

Sprinkle in a dash of hot sauce or worchestershire (your choice). Stir well, then add salt and pepper to taste.

What Goes Well with Hot Dog Chili?

The best part about this chili is it's so versatile. Besides hot dogs, it tastes great on nachos and loaded french fries. I've also served it on top of baked potatoes topped with cheddar cheese and sour cream. Mmm.

It's the perfect side to bring to a tailgate party, backyard cookout, or football game. Serve it alongside my Creamy Southern Coleslaw for a special treat.

Why not dream up a gourmet hot dog bar and provide lots of toppings for guests to make their own chili dogs? Try these great hot dog bar ideas from my friend, Anecia, at Smarty Pants Kitchen.

hot dogs side by side with chili and coleslaw on top

More Picnic Sides to Love

Try these delicious sides that go perfectly with hot dogs at your next cookout or picnic!

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