Delicious Slow Cooker Hot Dog Chili

Looking to elevate your backyard cookouts or game night snacks? Look no further than this ultimate comfort food: Crockpot Hot Dog Chili. This savory and classic chili recipe is a game-changer, infusing tender beef with a hint of sweetness and a medley of spices that will have your taste buds dancing. Perfect for topping hot dogs at a summer barbecue or drizzling over crispy fries for a cozy night in, this homemade chili is a must-try for anyone craving that nostalgic chili dog flavor.

What sets this Crockpot Hot Dog Chili apart is its perfect blend of flavors, including a touch of mustard and Worcestershire sauce that will transport you back to your favorite old-fashioned diner. Imagine the aroma of this chili simmering in your kitchen, evoking memories of summer fairs and family gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply craving a taste of nostalgia, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Get ready to impress your guests and family with this delicious homemade chili that’s both easy to make and impossible to resist.

Table of Contents

Quick Benefits

Lean ground beef such as 90/10 provides robust flavor with less grease, keeping the chili rich but not overly fatty.
Substituting minced onion for onion powder adds a touch of sweetness and texture to the chili.
Cooking on LOW for about 2 to 2½ hours allows for optimum flavor melding and a pleasing consistency.
Perfect for hot dogs, fries, burgers, baked potatoes, and nachos—ideal for casual meals or gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Slow Cooker Hot Dog Chili Recipe

Perfect for casual meals, backyard cookouts, or game day gatherings—this chili elevates hot dogs, fries, burgers, baked potatoes, and nachos to something truly special.
The savory blend of lean ground beef, tomato sauce, and spices, along with a touch of sweetness from ketchup and mustard, creates a nostalgic and crave-worthy flavor profile that will be loved by all ages.
The slow cooking process in the crockpot allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and comforting chili that fills your home with delicious aromas.
This recipe is versatile and customizable—you can adjust the chili powder for your preferred level of spiciness or swap ingredients like ground turkey for a lighter version.
Easy to prepare in advance and reheat, making it a convenient option for busy days or party planning.
With the option to freeze leftovers for future use, this chili is a convenient and practical dish to have on hand.
The chili bar idea provides a fun and interactive way to serve this dish at parties, allowing guests to customize their toppings and create their perfect hot dog experience.
A classic comfort food that evokes memories of summer fairs, baseball games, and family traditions, making it a heartwarming and nostalgic addition to any meal.

Ingredients for Delicious Slow Cooker Hot Dog Chili

Base

1/2 cup water
1 pound lean ground beef (90/10 preferred)

Sauce and Seasoning

1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 teaspoon onion powder or 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
1 tablespoon chili powder, adjust to taste
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce

Pro Tips for Delicious Slow Cooker Hot Dog Chili

For the best results with this Crockpot Hot Dog Chili recipe, opt for lean ground beef like a 90/10 blend for robust flavor without being overly greasy. To enhance the texture and taste, consider using 1 tablespoon of minced onion instead of onion powder, adding a touch of sweetness and a pleasant texture to the dish. Cooking on LOW for about 2 to 2½ hours allows the flavors to meld perfectly, creating a satisfying consistency that pairs well with hot dogs, burgers, fries, baked potatoes, and nachos. Adjust the chili powder to your preferred level of spiciness, starting conservatively and adding more as needed.

If you’re preparing this chili in advance for a party or gathering, feel free to make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Before serving, gently reheat the chili to ensure it retains its delicious flavors. This versatile dish is not only perfect for summer cookouts and tailgating but also for cozy winter dinners over baked potatoes or adding a fresh twist with canned green chiles in the spring. Enjoy the nostalgic and comforting flavors of this classic hot dog chili recipe that is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike.

How to Make Delicious Slow Cooker Hot Dog Chili

Step 1: Brown the ground beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with water, breaking up the meat into fine crumbles.

Step 2: Drain and transfer

Remove any excess fat from the beef and transfer the crumbled meat to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Add seasonings and liquids

Combine tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, salt, black pepper, sugar, and onion powder until mixed well.

Step 4: Slow cook the chili

Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 2 1/2 hours.

Step 5: Serve

Mix thoroughly before serving. Drizzle over hot dogs, fries, burgers, or nachos to your liking.

Storage Tips

Once the Crockpot Hot Dog Chili has been prepared and enjoyed, any leftovers should be allowed to cool before being placed in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chili can be stored this way for up to four days, ensuring it remains fresh and safe to eat. For longer storage, the chili can be ladled into a freezer-safe bag, flattened for easy stacking, and stored in the freezer. To enjoy the frozen chili, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

This savory and classic chili is versatile and can be served in various ways, such as spooned over grilled hot dogs, baked potatoes, fries, burgers, or nachos. To elevate the dish further, consider creating a chili bar with an array of toppings like diced red onions, jalapenos, shredded cheddar, and more. Whether it’s a summer cookout, tailgating event, cozy winter dinner, or a party with family and friends, this flavorful homemade chili is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. By following these storage tips and serving suggestions, you can continue to enjoy the delicious flavors and nostalgic feel of this Crockpot Hot Dog Chili even after the initial cooking session.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter option, ground turkey can be substituted for the ground beef in this crockpot hot dog chili recipe. While it may alter the classic taste slightly, ground turkey offers a leaner alternative that is still delicious and flavorful.

If you prefer a more textured chili, consider swapping the granulated onion powder for 1 tablespoon of dried minced onion. This substitution will add a touch of sweetness and enhance the overall mouthfeel of the chili.

Feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder used in the recipe to suit your spice preference. Start with a smaller amount and add more gradually to achieve the desired level of spiciness. Remember, you can always add more chili powder later on if you want a bolder flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and delicious twist, serve this Crockpot Hot Dog Chili in a bread bowl! Simply hollow out a round loaf of bread, ladle the chili into the bread bowl, and top with shredded cheddar and chopped onions for a hearty and comforting meal. The combination of the warm chili and soft bread makes for a cozy and satisfying dining experience.

Create a DIY Chili Dog Bar for your next gathering using this flavorful chili. Set up a station with grilled hot dogs, soft buns, and a variety of toppings such as shredded cheddar, diced red onions, pickled jalapenos, and crispy bacon. Let your guests customize their chili dogs with their favorite toppings for a fun and interactive dining experience that is sure to be a hit at parties and family gatherings.

FAQs for Delicious Slow Cooker Hot Dog Chili

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef for this recipe?

Yes, ground turkey can be used for a lighter version of the chili, but keep in mind that beef provides the best classic taste.

Can I substitute minced onion for onion powder in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute 1 tablespoon minced onion for the powder to add a touch of sweetness and texture to the chili.

How long should I cook the chili in the crockpot for optimal flavor?

Cook the chili on LOW for about 2 to 2½ hours to allow the flavors to meld and achieve a pleasing consistency.

What are some serving suggestions for this hot dog chili?

This chili is perfect for serving over hot dogs, fries, burgers, baked potatoes, and nachos, making it ideal for casual meals or gatherings.

Conclusion

As you savor the delicious aroma of Crockpot Hot Dog Chili filling your home, you’ll know that a hearty and flavorful meal is just moments away. This recipe truly captures the essence of classic chili dog flavor, making it a beloved addition to any gathering or casual meal. Whether enjoyed atop grilled hot dogs, crispy fries, or loaded onto baked potatoes, this chili is sure to bring smiles to the faces of all who taste it.

So go ahead, whip up a batch of this Crockpot Hot Dog Chili and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones. Whether it’s a summer cookout, a cozy winter dinner, or a lively tailgating event, this chili is a versatile and beloved dish that is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Bring the nostalgia and warmth of homemade chili to your table, and watch as it becomes a family favorite for years to come.