Introduction
Get ready to dive into the ultimate comfort food experience with these mouthwatering chili dogs! I’ve perfected this recipe to create the perfect balance of smoky, spicy chili and juicy hot dogs that’ll make your taste buds dance. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or craving a satisfying weekend meal, these chili dogs deliver big flavors without complicated techniques. Let me show you how to make this classic American favorite that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 8 all-beef hot dogs
- 8 hot dog buns
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, mustard
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and break it apart while cooking until no pink remains.
- Add diced onions and garlic to the beef. Cook until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in tomato sauce and all seasonings. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While the chili simmers, grill or pan-fry your hot dogs until they develop a nice char on the outside.
- Lightly toast the hot dog buns for extra texture and stability.
- Place each hot dog in a bun and top generously with hot chili.
- Add your favorite toppings and serve immediately while everything’s hot.
Cook Time and Serving Size
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8 chili dogs
Recipe Notes
- The chili can be made ahead and reheated when needed. It actually tastes even better the next day!
- For the best texture, avoid using super lean ground beef – the fat adds flavor and moisture.
- Toast your buns just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy.
- If your chili seems too thick, add a splash of beef broth to reach your desired consistency.
- For extra flavor, try grilling your hot dogs instead of pan-frying them.
- Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To prevent buns from splitting, slice them from the top instead of the side.

Chili Dogs
Get ready to dive into the ultimate comfort food experience with these mouthwatering chili dogs! I've perfected this recipe to create the perfect balance of smoky, spicy chili and juicy hot dogs that'll make your taste buds dance. Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ or craving a satisfying weekend meal, these chili dogs deliver big flavors without complicated techniques. Let me show you how to make this classic American favorite that'll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 8 all-beef hot dogs
- 8 hot dog buns
- 1 pound ground beef 80/20
- 1 medium onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese diced onions, mustard
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and break it apart while cooking until no pink remains.
- Add diced onions and garlic to the beef. Cook until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in tomato sauce and all seasonings. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While the chili simmers, grill or pan-fry your hot dogs until they develop a nice char on the outside.
- Lightly toast the hot dog buns for extra texture and stability.
- Place each hot dog in a bun and top generously with hot chili.
- Add your favorite toppings and serve immediately while everything's hot.