There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming hot dog slathered in rich, hearty chili. It takes me right back to summer cookouts and baseball games, where the scent of grilled meats mingled with laughter in the air. This Crockpot Hot Dog Chili recipe captures that nostalgic essence but with a twist—it’s crafted slow and low in the crockpot, marrying flavors in a way only slow cooking can achieve.

Imagine the best version of the classic hot dog chili: thick, flavorful, with just the right balance of sweetness and tang, all made simpler and more delicious by the crockpot. It’s perfect for drizzling over hot dogs, layering on burgers, or even scooping up with chips. Plus, using the crockpot means you can enjoy the outdoors or spend time with your family while dinner practically makes itself!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (90/10 for a leaner option)
• 1/3 cup water
• 5 ounces tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (or minced onion for a fresher taste)

Equipment

• Crockpot
• Medium skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Directions

1. Brown the Beef: Start by browning the ground beef with the water in a medium skillet over medium heat. The water helps break the beef into finer pieces, creating a smooth texture for the chili.
2. Drain: Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess water and grease from the skillet to keep your chili from being greasy.
3. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the cooked beef to your crockpot. Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, salt, black pepper, sugar, and onion powder until everything is well mixed.
4. Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 2 to 2-1/2 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to blend beautifully and the sauce to thicken to just the right consistency.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the hot dog chili over grilled hot dogs, tucked into buns, or over french fries or burgers as a delicious topping.

Serving Suggestions

This chili is versatile! Beyond hot dogs, try it over:

• A baked potato for a hearty meal.
• Nachos for a game-day treat.
• Homemade cornbread for a comforting dinner.

Tips and Variations

• For a Smoky Flavor: Add a dash of smoked paprika to the chili for a deeper, smoky flavor.
• Bean Addition: For a chunkier chili, add a can of drained kidney beans in the last hour of cooking.
• Make it Spicier: Increase the heat with a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I make this chili in advance? Absolutely! It refrigerates well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
2. How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey can be used for a lighter version. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the crockpot.
4. Is it necessary to brown the beef first? Yes, browning the beef not only enhances the flavor but also ensures a smoother texture in the chili.

With this Crockpot Hot Dog Chili, you bring the best of simple, savory cooking to any meal, enhancing your casual dining experience with a touch of gourmet delight. Whether it’s a family dinner or a large gathering, this chili promises to be the star topping of the evening!