Hot Dog Chili For A Crowd
A hearty, flavorful chili perfect for large crowds, featuring ground meat, fresh vegetables, and bold spices for a satisfying and versatile hot dog topping or meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Use a 20-quart or larger pot.
- Dissolve the ground meat with about 2 quarts of water to separate and brown the meat.
- Add tomato sauce and bring to a boil.
- Stir in chopped onions, celery, bell peppers, shallots, parsley, chili powder, flour, and cooking oil.
- Simmer the chili until flavors meld and vegetables are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a tablespoon of vinegar. You can also substitute some of the ground beef with turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version. If you want to thicken the chili, adjust the flour to your preference or use cornstarch. Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning as it simmers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Hot Dog Chili over grilled hot dogs for a classic combination. It also pairs well with cornbread or tortilla chips for a hearty meal. Consider a side of coleslaw or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the chili. This dish is perfect for gatherings, so make a large batch and enjoy!
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Dog Chili For A Crowd contains roughly 469 calories, with 8g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (48% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. 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 use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a healthier alternative to beef in this recipe. It will still provide a satisfying base for the chili, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it's cooked through.
How spicy is this chili recipe?
The spiciness of this chili can be adjusted based on your preference. The Mexene chili powder adds flavor without overwhelming heat, but if you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Absolutely! This chili actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day in advance, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving, and it’s ready to impress your guests!
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).