Crockpot Hot Dog Chili (Easy, Meaty & Flavorful)

Take your hot dogs to the next level with this Crockpot Hot Dog Chili — rich, savory, and slow-cooked to perfection!
This hands-free recipe delivers the perfect topping for chili dogs, fries, burgers, or nachos. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, planning game day snacks, or just craving something hearty, this chili is a guaranteed hit.

💛 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Prep: Let the slow cooker do the work!
• Rich, Balanced Flavor: Just the right blend of spice, tang, and sweetness.
• Perfect for Parties: Great for feeding a crowd or prepping ahead.
• Versatile: Use it on hot dogs, fries, nachos, or burgers!

🛒 Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tsp brown sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned.
Drain excess fat, then add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft.

Step 2: Add to Crockpot

Transfer the beef mixture to your crockpot.
Stir in tomato sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, spices, water, and brown sugar.

Step 3: Cook Low & Slow

Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Serve

Spoon over hot dogs and garnish with toppings like shredded cheese, diced onions, jalapeños, or pickles.
Enjoy every meaty, saucy bite!

🍽️ Serving Ideas

• Classic chili dogs with mustard and onions
• Over crinkle-cut fries or waffle fries
• As a topping for nachos, burgers, or baked potatoes
• With tortilla chips as a dippable appetizer

🧊 Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheat: Warm in a saucepan over low heat, or microwave in 30-second intervals.

🔥 Pro Tips for the Best Hot Dog Chili

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Reduces grease but still delivers a rich texture.
• Customize the Spice: Add more cayenne or a splash of hot sauce if you like heat.
• Thicker Chili: Reduce the water or cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
• Make Ahead: It tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

🔄 Flavor Variations

• Smoky BBQ: Add 1 tbsp BBQ sauce to the mix
• Tex-Mex Twist: Mix in a dash of taco seasoning
• Sweet Heat: Stir in hot honey or diced chipotle peppers
• Cheesy Finish: Melt shredded cheddar into the chili before serving

📊 Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx.)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 14g
• Carbs: 7g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 470mg

❓ FAQs

Can I make this chili without a crockpot?
Yes! Simmer everything on the stovetop for about 30–40 minutes over low heat.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Absolutely. Just keep in mind the flavor may be slightly lighter — adjust seasonings if needed.

What can I use this chili on besides hot dogs?
Fries, nachos, baked potatoes, burgers, or even as a dip with tortilla chips!

Can I double this recipe?
Yes — perfect for parties or freezing extras for later.

✅ Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Hot Dog Chili is a must-have recipe for BBQs, game days, and weeknight dinners. Packed with savory flavor and made with pantry staples, it’s a low-effort, high-reward topping that makes everything better — from hot dogs to nachos.

Make it once, and you’ll be keeping a batch in your freezer at all times. 🌭🔥