Crockpot Hot Dog Chili Recipe: 5 Easy Steps to Best Flavor

This Crockpot Hot Dog Chili recipe is about to become your new favorite way to elevate your hot dog game. Forget bland, watery chili; we’re talking about a rich, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned concoction that simmers to perfection with minimal effort.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with this incredibly easy and delicious homemade hot dog chili. It’s perfect for game days, summer BBQs, or just a cozy night in.

Introduction to the Ultimate Hot Dog Chili

There’s nothing quite like a perfectly loaded hot dog, and a key component to that perfection is an outstanding chili topping. Our crockpot hot dog chili takes all the fuss out of making a truly savory and hearty chili, letting your slow cooker do all the hard work.

This recipe focuses on deep flavors and a texture that clings beautifully to your hot dogs, ensuring every bite is a delight. It’s a game-changer for anyone who loves a good chili dog.

Why This Crockpot Hot Dog Chili Recipe is a Game-Changer

Using a slow cooker for your hot dog chili isn’t just about convenience; it’s about flavor development. The long, slow simmer allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a depth of flavor that’s hard to achieve with quicker methods.

Plus, it frees up your stove and your time! You simply set it and forget it, coming back to a pot of irresistible, perfectly cooked chili. This easy hot dog chili recipe truly delivers on taste and simplicity.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Amazing Chili

Gathering your ingredients for this amazing slow cooker chili for hot dogs is straightforward. Most of these are pantry staples you likely already have on hand.

1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 lean)
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
½ tsp smoked paprika
¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little kick)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

How to Make Crockpot Hot Dog Chili: The 5 Easy Steps

Follow these simple steps for the best chili for hot dogs you’ve ever made. It’s truly as easy as 1-2-3!

Step 1: Browning Your Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef thoroughly. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain off any excess fat.

Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Combining Ingredients in the Crockpot

Transfer the browned beef, onion, and garlic mixture into your slow cooker. Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, and beef broth.

Next, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add the Worcestershire sauce. Season generously with salt and black pepper to your liking.

Step 3: Slow Cooking for Maximum Flavor

Give all the ingredients a good stir to combine completely. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.

Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chili should be thick and bubbling, with all the flavors wonderfully melded together. This slow cooking is key to a truly rich and savory chili.

Step 4: The Final Stir and Seasoning

Once the cooking time is complete, open the lid and give the chili a thorough stir. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want a little more salt, pepper, or another dash of chili powder.

If the chili is too thin for your liking, you can remove the lid for the last 30 minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate.

Step 5: Serving Your Delicious Hot Dog Chili

Your homemade crockpot hot dog chili is now ready! Serve it warm over your favorite hot dogs, coney dogs, or even as a standalone dish.

Don’t forget the toppings!Read our in-depth guide here.

Tips for the Best Hot Dog Chili Experience

Don’t Skimp on Browning: Browning the beef properly before adding it to the crockpot adds a crucial layer of flavor.
Drain Fat Well: Excess fat can make your chili greasy. Ensure you drain it thoroughly after browning.
Taste and Adjust: Chili flavors deepen during cooking. Always taste before serving and adjust spices as needed.
Simmer Longer if Possible: While minimum times work, longer slow cooking often results in even richer flavors.

Serving Suggestions and Topping Ideas

This versatile chili isn’t just for hot dogs! It’s fantastic on burgers, loaded fries, or even as a dip with tortilla chips. For your hot dogs, consider these classic chili topping for hot dogs ideas:

Shredded cheddar cheese
Diced raw onions
Jalapeños (fresh or pickled)
A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt
Mustard and ketchup (of course!)
Crushed Fritos for crunch
A sprinkle of fresh cilantro

For more inspiration, check out Allrecipes’ collection of chili ideas.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Your delicious ground beef chili crockpot creation stores wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep!

Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions.

FAQ

Can I make this Crockpot Hot Dog Chili vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground crumbles. Just cook them according to package directions before adding to the slow cooker, skipping the draining step.

What if my hot dog chili is too thin?

If your chili is thinner than desired, try removing the lid of the slow cooker for the last 30-60 minutes of cooking. This allows some of the liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the hot chili in the last 15 minutes of cooking to thicken it.

Can I add beans to this hot dog chili recipe?

While traditional hot dog chili typically doesn’t contain beans, you certainly can add them if you like! A can of drained kidney or pinto beans, added during the last hour of cooking, would be a great addition for extra heartiness.