Hot Dog Chili Recipe Crock Pot Made Easy and Delicious

If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful topping that takes your hot dogs to the next level, this Hot Dog Chili Recipe Crock Pot is exactly what you need. Slow-cooked to perfection, this chili is rich, savory, and packed with just the right amount of spice.

Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard BBQ, planning a game day feast, or simply craving a comforting meal, this crock pot chili will become your go-to recipe. Best of all, it requires minimal effort—just toss your ingredients into the slow cooker in the morning, and come home to an irresistible chili that’s ready to serve.

This recipe uses simple pantry staples and fresh spices to create a chili that’s thick enough to cling to your hot dog buns but still moist and flavorful. You can easily customize the spice level or add your favorite beans, but the classic version is a crowd-pleaser every time.

Get ready to impress your friends and family with a homemade chili topping that beats store-bought versions hands down!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This crock pot chili recipe is the ultimate convenience food without compromising on taste. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a deep, rich chili that’s not overly complicated or spicy.

You’ll love how easy it is to prepare, and how the leftovers taste even better the next day.

It’s also incredibly versatile—perfect for hot dogs, but also delicious over baked potatoes, nachos, or even as a filling for chili cheese fries. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and can be made in large batches, making it ideal for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (preferably 80/20 for fat content)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional for a touch of sweetness)
• 1/2 cup beef broth or water

Equipment

• Crock pot (slow cooker) – at least 4-quart size
• Large skillet for browning meat
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Can opener

Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef: Heat the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Combine ingredients in the crock pot: Transfer the beef mixture to your crock pot. Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, ketchup, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar (if using), and beef broth.
4. Stir well: Mix all ingredients thoroughly to combine.
5. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chili should thicken and the flavors will develop beautifully.
6. Adjust seasoning: About 30 minutes before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed—add more salt, chili powder, or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
7. Serve: Spoon the chili generously over grilled hot dogs and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

“For an extra thick chili, stir in 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.”

If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils. You can also add beans such as kidney or pinto beans for a heartier chili, though traditional hot dog chili often skips beans.

Vary the spice level by adjusting the chili powder and adding cayenne pepper if you like it hot. For a smoky twist, use chipotle powder instead of smoked paprika.

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freeze beautifully for up to 3 months—perfect for busy weeknights!

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chili is traditionally served over hot dogs in soft buns with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, diced onions, or mustard. For a fun twist, try these ideas:

• Chili Cheese Fries: Pour warm chili over crispy fries and top with melted cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese.
• Baked Potatoes: Spoon chili over a baked potato and add sour cream and green onions.
• Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with chili, cheese, jalapeños, and olives for a quick snack.
• Tacos: Use chili as a filling for soft tacos topped with lettuce and salsa.

Conclusion

This Hot Dog Chili Recipe Crock Pot offers a perfect blend of convenience and deliciousness. With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you can create a rich, flavorful chili that elevates any hot dog experience.

Its versatility makes it a great kitchen staple, perfect for casual meals or entertaining guests.

Slow cooking ensures every bite is infused with deep, comforting flavors, making it a standout recipe for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Whether you prefer yours mild or spicy, with beans or without, this chili is easily adaptable to your tastes.

Give it a try for your next gathering or cozy night in—you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed hot dogs without it!

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