If you're searching for the best hot dog chili recipe, look no further. This Ultimate Homemade Hot Dog Chili Recipe prepared in the Instant Pot, delivers incredible flavor that complements any hot dog. Bring a delicious, homemade touch to your weeknight meals or family gatherings without the hassle.
Hot dog chili is a flavorful sauce made with ground beef, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. It's the perfect topping for hot dogs, adding a savory element that brings the simple hot dog to a whole new level. Traditionally served at BBQs and cookouts, hot dog chili is a dish that can also be used on burgers, fries, and more.
Why We Love This Recipe:
- Flavor: The combination of spices and beef broth creates a deep, satisfying taste.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients make this recipe accessible for any home cook.
- Perfect for Entertaining: A hit at BBQs and family gatherings, this chili is a crowd-pleaser.
- Versatile: Great not just on hot dogs but also on burgers, fries, and baked potatoes.
If you like this beef recipe, you may also love our Dutch Oven Chili: Cincinnati Style or our Sloppy Joe Sliders.
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What Ingredients Will You Need?
- Ground Beef: Choose an 80/20 blend for richer flavor and juiciness.
- Onion: Finely chopped to blend well into the sauce.
- Tomato Sauce: Adds a robust tomato base.
- Tomato Paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor.
- Garlic: Minced for a touch of aromatic flavor.
- Brown Sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Yellow Mustard: Adds a tangy kick.
- Chili Powder: Provides the classic chili flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances the umami profile.
- Ground Cumin: Adds warmth and depth.
- Beef Broth: Used instead of water for a richer taste.
- White Vinegar: Adds a subtle tanginess.
- Kosher Salt and Pepper: Enhances the overall flavor.
- Bay Leaf: Adds an aromatic touch.
- Olive Oil: Optional, for sautéing.
- Topping: Cheddar cheese and onion
Note: Refer to the recipe card below for exact quantities.
Instructions
How to Make the Ultimate Homemade Hot Dog Chili
STEP ONE: Prepare the Beef
Set your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add olive oil if using, ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
STEP TWO: Add the Seasonings
Stir in the tomato paste, brown sugar, mustard, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
STEP THREE: Add Liquids
Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, and white vinegar. Stir to incorporate everything thoroughly.
STEP FOUR: Pressure Cook
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. The valve should be in the sealing position. Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully turn the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
Use an immersion blender to break up the mixture to your desired consistency, making sure it’s smooth enough for a chili dog sauce.
What Are Some Good Substitutions?
- Ground Beef: You can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Tomato Sauce: Use crushed tomatoes if you prefer a chunkier texture.
- Brown Sugar: Substitute with white sugar or omit.
How Can You Change This Recipe Up?
- Diet-Friendly: Use lean ground meat and low-sodium broth for a healthier version.
- Spice: Add diced jalapeños.
- Kid-Friendly: Reduce the amount of chili powder and add a bit more brown sugar.
What Kitchen Equipment Is Best?
This post shows some of our kitchen essentials. Please visit our shop if you would like to see more of our favorites. These are Amazon affiliate links and we earn commission from qualifying purchases.
- Instant Pot
- Immersion Blender
- Measuring Spoons
- Wooden Spoon
- Cutting Board
- Chef’s Knife
How Should You Store This?
Store the homemade hot dog chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Chili dog sauce freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm up on the stove.
Note: Refer to Top Tips below for more storage and reheating tips.
What Are Some Expert Tips?
While sautéing the beef and onions, stir consistently to prevent burning.
Always let the pressure release naturally before turning the valve to venting to avoid splatters.
Use an immersion blender for a smoother sauce, perfect for topping hot dogs.
To reheat, warm up on the stove or microwave until heated through.
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Have Leftover Ingredients?
- Use leftover beef broth in soup, or try these Burgundy Mushrooms.
- Tomato paste can be frozen in ice cube trays for future use.
- Brown sugar is great on Caramelized Sweet Potatoes.
Need Something To Pair This With?
- Serve with a Classic Southern Potato Salad or coleslaw.
- Pair with Easy Air Fryer Potato Wedges or Buttermilk Onion Rings for a satisfying meal.
- Enjoy with a cold glass of lemonade for a summer vibe.
In The Mood For a Similar Dish?
- Classic Beef Chili
- BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
- Skillet Sourdough Patty Melt with Special Sauce
Related
More beef recipes you will love:
FAQ
Hot dog chili should have a perfect blend of spices, meat, and tomato base. It should be thick enough to stay on top of a hot dog. Key ingredients typically include ground beef, onions, garlic, tomato sauce, and a blend of spices such as chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
Yes, let the chili cool completely, then portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Label and date the containers, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw the chili in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
To make hot dog chili thicker, you can simmer it uncovered on the stove to let some of the liquid evaporate. You can also add tomato paste or cornstarch mixed with a bit of water and use less liquid (like beef broth).
📖 Recipe
The Ultimate Homemade Hot Dog Chili: Easy Instant Pot Recipe
Equipment
- Immersion blender
- Measuring Spoons
- Chef’s Knife
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs. ground beef 80/20 blend for richer flavor
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 1 can (15oz.) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 4 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 can (14.5 oz.) beef broth
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon olive oil optional, for sautéing
Chili Dogs
- hot dog buns
- hot dogs
- cheddar cheese and onion for topping
Instructions
- Set your Instant Pot to the sauté mode.
- Add olive oil (if using) to the Instant Pot. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, breaking up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste, brown sugar, mustard, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, ground cumin, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, and white vinegar. Stir to incorporate everything thoroughly.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Make sure the valve is in the sealing position.
- Once the cooking time is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully turn the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure. Check that ground beef is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C)
- Use an immersion blender to break up the mixture to your desired consistency, making sure it’s smooth enough for a chili dog sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve the chili dog sauce hot over grilled or steamed hot dogs in buns. Top with cheddar cheese and onion.
Notes
- Ground Beef: You can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Tomato Sauce: Use crushed tomatoes if you prefer a chunkier texture.
- Brown Sugar: Substitute with white sugar or omit.
Nutrition
This homemade hot dog chili recipe is a game-changer for any family meal or gathering. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it's sure to become a household favorite.
Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! Don’t forget to check out our other recipes for more delicious ideas.
Important Food Safety Tips
Always refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking. Reheat thoroughly before consuming. Ground beef should be cooked to a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Create a clean work area.
- Wash hands after touching raw meat or seafood.
- Rinse fresh produce thoroughly.
- Do not use the same cutting board or utensils on cooked food or produce, that previously touched raw meat or seafood.
- Do not leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods.
- Never leave cooking food unattended.
- Use oils with a high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds.
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove.
See more guidelines at USDA.gov.
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