Best Damn Chili Dogs

A backyard BBQ classic, my Chili Dogs are easy to make, fun to eat, and great for any get-together. Make your hot dogs just the way you like. Then load ’em up with hearty chili and your favorite toppings like melted cheese, crunchy onions, and spicy jalapeños.

Why You’ll Love This Chili Dog Recipe

I mean, it’s pretty hard not to love chili dogs, right? But what I really like about this recipe is how much flavor you get from the chili in just 20 minutes of cooking. The key is to let that chili simmer long enough so the flavors mingle together and become nice and rich.

Since this is more of a summer recipe, I recommend making the hot dogs on the grill to add that charred, smoky layer to things. You’ll definitely get the most flavor and texture that way! 

Make it for game days, holidays like the Fourth of July, or just a casual summer cookout with friends and family for a fun and delicious meal.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: I recommend 85% lean beef for the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
• White or yellow onion: Onions are a great aromatic ingredient that adds flavor and moisture to the meat.
• Canned tomatoes: You’ll need tomato sauce and tomato paste for a rich, tangy flavor.
• Spice mix: I used chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to season the beef.
• Beef broth: This gives the chili a richer flavor and just the right consistency.
• Hot dogs: Use any kind you like, but I prefer beef franks for their bold flavor.
• Hot dog buns: I like toasting my buns on the grill or griddle for added texture.

Chili Dog Topping Ideas

Almost anything is fair game when it comes to chili dogs! Here are some favorites, plus a few unique ones to try out:

• Shredded cheese
• Red onion
• Scallions
• Jalapeño
• Yellow mustard
• Ketchup
• BBQ sauce
• Banana peppers
• Coleslaw
• Mac and cheese
• Crushed tortilla chips
• Bacon bits

Making the Chili

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

Next, add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Now add tomato sauce, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and broth. Stir to combine.

Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Feel free to add an extra splash of broth if it becomes too thick.

Making the Dogs

Cook the hot dogs however you like! Here are a few popular ways to do it:

• Grilling: Adds a smoky flavor and gives the hot dogs a nice charred texture. 
• Boiling: A quick and simple method that keeps the hot dogs juicy and tender without adding extra fat.
• Pan-frying: Creates a crispy outer layer while locking in the flavor. 
• Microwaving: The fastest way to heat up hot dogs if you’re short on time. Just be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
• Oven-baking: An evenly cooked option that doesn’t require much attention.

Assembly

Now let’s get these guys ready to go!

Place each hot dog in a bun and spoon a generous amount of warm chili on top. Add toppings of your choice, serve, and enjoy!

What Else Is on the Menu?

These chili dogs would taste excellent with my Best Damn Baked Mac and Cheese. Add a slice of Best Damn Iron Skillet Cornbread, perfect for soaking up all the chili goodness!

For a true BBQ feast, grill some Corn in the Husk for a smoky, sweet side, and balance it with some crispy Air Fryer Homestyle French Fries. My Easy Instant Pot Potato Salad is a total go-to for any BBQ or potluck.

Storage & Reheating

I would store your chili, hot dogs, and buns separately in airtight containers or Ziploc bags in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. 

When ready to reheat, heat up each component individually on the stove or microwave, or assemble your chili dogs and heat them up in the oven or air fryer.

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