Name: Hot Dog Chili Topping
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small onion (finely chopped); 2 –3 garlic cloves (minced); 1 cup beef broth; 14 oz tomato sauce (1 can); 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Optional: dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for heat

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a savory, homemade chili topping that elevates the humble hot dog to a hearty meal. This hot dog chili topping bursts with rich, meaty flavors and a hint of spice, perfect for cozy gatherings or casual family dinners. Whether you’re loading it onto hot dogs, fries, or burgers, this chili adds a warm and satisfying touch that everyone will love.

Made with ground beef and a blend of spices, this chili simmers slowly to develop deep flavors that complement any dish it adorns. The thick, rich sauce clings beautifully to your favorite comfort foods, making every bite irresistibly full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatile chili topping perfect for hot dogs, burgers, fries, and more.
Rich, savory flavor with a mild kick of warmth from spices.
Simple ingredients and straightforward steps for quick preparation.
Customizable heat level to suit every palate.

Ingredients

Ground beef (500 g / 1 lb): Lean ground beef provides a hearty, meaty base essential for a rich chili flavor.
Small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth, balancing the spices and enhancing the chili’s aroma.
Garlic cloves, minced (2–3): Fresh garlic infuses a bright, savory note that complements the beef perfectly.
Beef broth (1 cup): Adds moisture and intensifies the meaty flavor while helping create a thick sauce.
Tomato sauce (1 can, 400 g / 14 oz): Provides a smooth, tangy base that melds all the ingredients together beautifully.
Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Concentrated tomato flavor thickens the chili and enhances its richness.
Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Imparts a subtle tang and umami depth that rounds out the flavor profile.
Chili powder (1 tablespoon): Brings warmth and complexity with a mild blend of peppers and spices.
Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds earthy, smoky undertones essential in classic chili seasoning.
Paprika (½ teaspoon): Contributes mild sweetness and a vibrant red color.
Salt (½ teaspoon, adjust to taste): Enhances all flavors and balances the acidity.
Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Offers a subtle peppery heat that rounds out the taste.
Optional hot sauce or cayenne: Add a dash for extra heat if desired to tailor the spice level.

Instructions

Brown the Beef and Onion: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add ground beef along with the finely chopped onion. Cook while breaking up the beef with a spatula, stirring frequently until the meat is browned evenly and the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step develops the deep base flavor of your chili and releases the natural sweetness of the onion.
Drain Excess Fat: If there is excess fat accumulated in the pan after browning the beef, carefully drain it off to avoid a greasy chili. This keeps the topping rich but not oily, ensuring a cleaner texture and better taste.
Sauté the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 to 60 seconds, just until fragrant. Garlic releases its flavor quickly, creating an aromatic foundation without turning bitter, enhancing the overall savory profile of the chili.
Add Liquids and Tomato Components: Pour in the beef broth, canned tomato sauce, and tomato paste. These liquids build a luscious, thick sauce that binds your chili topping together, intensified by simmering.
Season the Chili: Mix in Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. These spices and sauces add layers of flavor and a balanced heat, transforming the meat and tomato base into a rich, savory chili that’s perfect for topping.
Simmer Until Thickened: Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This simmering process melds the flavors and thickens the sauce to the ideal consistency for scooping onto hot dogs or fries.
Adjust Heat Level: If you like your chili spicy, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper towards the end of simmering. This customization allows you to control the heat and make the topping perfect for your taste.
Serve Warm Over Favorites: Spoon the warm chili generously over hot dogs, burgers, fries, baked potatoes, or loaded tots. For extra indulgence, top with shredded cheese, chopped onions, or a dollop of mustard for a classic flavor combination.

You Must Know

You can swap ground beef with turkey or pork for a lighter or different flavor profile.
Adding kidney or pinto beans makes this chili heartier and great as a standalone dish.
For a classic cheese dog experience, sprinkle shredded cheddar on top of the chili before serving.
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat gently on the stove to retain texture.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover chili topping in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, to preserve the best texture and flavor without drying out.

Serving Suggestions

This chili topping is incredibly versatile—serve it warm over grilled hot dogs, juicy burgers, crispy fries, or fluffy baked potatoes. For an elevated snack, pile it on loaded tots or even nachos and finish with shredded cheese and diced onions for added crunch and richness.

Professional Tips

Use lean ground beef to avoid excessive fat that can make the chili greasy.
Finely chopping onions ensures they cook evenly and blend seamlessly into the topping.
Simmering longer at low heat can deepen flavors but watch to avoid over-thickening.
Customize the spiciness by adding hot sauce gradually and tasting as you go.

FAQs

Can I make this chili topping ahead of time?: Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
What can I use instead of ground beef?: Ground turkey or pork are great alternatives for a different taste or lighter option.
Is this chili topping gluten-free?: Yes, as long as your Worcestershire sauce and other ingredients are certified gluten-free, this recipe contains no gluten.
Can I add beans to this chili?: Absolutely! Adding kidney or pinto beans will make it heartier, perfect for chili bowls or a standalone meal.
How spicy is this chili?: It has a mild warmth thanks to the chili powder and paprika. You can increase heat by adding hot sauce or cayenne to your liking.
What toppings go well with this chili?: Shredded cheese, diced onions, mustard, and jalapeños all complement the chili beautifully.