Chili For Hot Dogs
A hearty and flavorful chili perfect for topping hot dogs. Rich in smoky paprika, chili powder, and savory tomato paste, this dish offers a comforting taste that pairs well with casual gatherings and quick meals. Its thick, spicy profile makes it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a pot.
- Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Reduce heat to low and cook for about 1 hour or until it thickens sufficiently.
- Stir often when it first starts cooking.
- Serve hot over hot dogs.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix. If you're out of chili powder, a combination of cumin and cayenne can work as a substitute. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or mushrooms instead of ground chuck. Stir the chili frequently at the beginning to prevent sticking, especially as it thickens.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chili hot over grilled or steamed hot dogs, and consider adding toppings like shredded cheese, diced onions, or jalapeños for extra flavor. This chili pairs beautifully with Wee Lemon Cakes for dessert, making for a complete meal. For sides, offer coleslaw or potato chips to complement the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short increments, stirring in between. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili For Hot Dogs contains roughly 218 calories, with 11g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (83% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value), and iron (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1196mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and simply reheat when you're ready to serve.
What if I want a vegetarian version?
You can easily make a vegetarian chili by substituting the ground chuck with lentils, black beans, or chopped mushrooms. Add some extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for additional flavor and texture.
How can I thicken the chili if it's too soupy?
If your chili is too thin, you can let it simmer uncovered for a while to evaporate excess liquid. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the chili and cook until thickened.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).