Chili Sauce For Hot Dogs
A rich, flavorful chili sauce with savory beef and sweet tomato notes, perfect for hot dogs and casual gatherings, combining bold spices and hearty texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over low heat until browned, constantly breaking it into a very fine consistency.
- Add seasoned salt while cooking.
- Pour the cooked beef into a strainer and drain well.
- Return 3 tablespoons of drippings to the skillet.
- Saute chopped onion until clear and tender.
- Add drained ground beef to the skillet.
- Toss the beef and onions well to combine.
- Add tomato sauce, tomato juice, tomato ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, dry mustard, white pepper, black pepper, garlic salt, and seasoned salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
- Quick cool by placing the pan in ice, then refrigerate overnight.
- Remove any solidified fat before reheating and serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chili sauce. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, increase the brown sugar slightly. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner substitute for beef, while vegetable broth can replace tomato juice for a vegetarian version. This recipe can also be adapted for variations like Chili Dog Sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili sauce over hot dogs in toasted buns and top with diced onions, shredded cheese, or jalapeños for added flavor. It also pairs beautifully with a side of coleslaw or potato salad. For a fun twist, try it with a baked potato or as a topping for nachos, making it a versatile addition to your American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Sauce For Hot Dogs contains roughly 134 calories, with 3g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 sauce ahead of time?
Yes, this chili sauce can be made a day in advance. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before refrigerating. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even tastier when reheated.
What type of ground beef is best for this recipe?
For optimal flavor and texture, use 80/20 ground beef, which has a good balance of fat to keep the sauce rich and moist. Leaner options can be used, but they may result in a drier sauce.
Can I freeze the leftover chili sauce?
Absolutely! This chili sauce freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).