Crock-Pot Franks
A savory and sweet crock-pot dish featuring hot dogs in a tangy ketchup and chili sauce glaze, perfect for casual gatherings and quick family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ketchup, vinegar, chili sauce, and brown sugar together in a bowl.
- Add the beef wieners or little franks, cut into thirds, to the crock-pot.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the hot dogs.
- Cook on high for one hour, then reduce to low and cook for an additional two hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced onions or bell peppers to the sauce mixture. You can substitute apple cider vinegar for regular vinegar for a slightly sweeter taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix. This recipe is versatile; try using turkey or chicken wieners as a lighter option. For more flavor, browse more American recipes featuring beef.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Crock-Pot Franks as a main dish at your next gathering, paired with coleslaw or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. They make excellent appetizers at parties, especially when served with toothpicks. For a fun twist, serve them in slider buns or alongside chips for a casual dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Crock-Pot Franks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. Ensure they are heated evenly to enjoy the best taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Franks contains roughly 283 calories, with 1g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cut the wieners ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply combine the ingredients in the crock-pot and follow the cooking instructions. This makes it a great option for busy days or gatherings.
What can I substitute for chili sauce?
If you don't have chili sauce on hand, you can use a mix of ketchup and hot sauce for a similar flavor profile. Alternatively, a homemade sauce using crushed tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and spices can work well. Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences for a personalized flavor.
Is it possible to cook this recipe on low for a longer time?
Absolutely! If you prefer to cook on low, you can set the crock-pot for 4 to 6 hours instead of 1 hour on high. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully over a longer period. Just ensure the wieners are cooked through before serving.
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).