Easy Chili Dog Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide for Perfect Flavor in 30 Minutes

Discover the easiest way to make delicious chili dogs with this step-by-step recipe. Perfect for quick meals, BBQs, or street-style snacks, this guide includes all ingredients, precise measurements, and pro tips to elevate your chili dogs in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• 8 hot dogs
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 lb ground beef (or plant-based alternative)
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp McCormick Chili Powder Blend (or preferred brand)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin seeds, toasted (see Tip #3)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/4 cup dark beer (optional, see Tip #8)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (see Tip #7)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chili Base

Heat vegetable oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

Toast cumin seeds in the same pan for 1 minute until fragrant. Add chili powder, smoked paprika, and brown sugar. Stir for 30 seconds to release flavors.

Step 2: Simmer the Chili

Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, beef broth, and beer (if using). Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Finish with apple cider vinegar and adjust seasoning. For best results, let chili rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Step 3: Cook Hot Dogs and Assemble

Grill or pan-fry hot dogs until heated through. Split buns and place hot dogs inside. Top with 1/4 cup chili per dog. Add toppings like mustard, onions, or spicy mayo (see Tip #10).

Type of Chili Powder	Flavor Profile	Best For
Regular Chili Powder	Mild earthy heat	Daily use, classic hot dogs
Smoked Chili Powder	Smoky + medium heat	BBQ vibes, deeper flavor
Cayenne Pepper	Burns like lava	Adding serious heat fast

Top Chili Products for Perfect Chili Dogs

Product	Description	Pros	Cons	Best For
McCormick Chili Powder Blend	Classic American-style blend with garlic, cumin, and oregano	Inexpensive, widely available, consistent flavor	Slightly salty	Beginners, daily use
Penzeys Smoked Chile Colorado	Rich red chili powder with smoky undertones	High-quality, versatile, deep flavor	Pricier than supermarket brands	Chefs, advanced users
La Costeña Chipotle in Adobo Sauce	Ready-to-use canned chili paste	Adds instant smoky heat, great base	Can be overpowering if used too much	Quick meals, marinades, sauces

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make chili for hot dogs from scratch?

This recipe takes 30 minutes total. For quicker options, use pre-made chili bases (like La Costeña) and add vinegar/brown sugar for flavor enhancement.

Can I make chili dogs without meat?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles. Add 1 tbsp tomato paste for umami and simmer with beans for texture.

What's the best way to reheat chili for hot dogs?

Reheat gently in a saucepan with a splash of broth. Avoid microwaving to prevent uneven heating. For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the fridge first.

How much chili should I put on each hot dog?

Use 1/4 cup per hot dog. This provides full coverage without overwhelming the dog. Adjust based on preference, but leave room for toppings.

Can I use canned chili for hot dogs?

Yes! Choose a quality brand like La Costeña Chipotle in Adobo. Enhance it with 1 tsp brown sugar and 1 tbsp vinegar for balanced flavor.

What are the essential toppings for the best chili dogs?

Classic toppings: yellow mustard, diced white onions, and shredded cheddar. For elevation, add pickled jalapeños and spicy mayo (mix mayo + chipotle sauce).