Hot Dog Chili Sauce

Cook: 30 min Cuisine: American

Hot Dog Chili Sauce is a savory, mildly spicy topping with rich tomato and beef flavors, perfect for hot dogs, burgers, or fries. Its bold taste and hearty texture make it a favorite for casual gatherings and quick weeknight dinners alike.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 6 oz. can tomato paste
  • 1 1/2 cups water
  • 1 Tbsp. minced onion
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire
  • 1 Tbsp. mustard
  • 3 tsp. chili powder
  • 2 tsp. sugar

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef and break it into small pieces.
  2. Drain the fat from the cooked meat.
  3. Add the tomato paste, water, minced onion, salt, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, chili powder, and sugar to the meat.
  4. Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños while browning the beef. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of water or simmer longer. Adding a dash of hot sauce can also elevate the heat level to your liking. This chili sauce pairs beautifully with White Castles.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the hot dog chili sauce over grilled hot dogs for a classic treat. It also makes a great topping for baked potatoes or nachos. Pair with a side of coleslaw for a refreshing crunch, or serve with cornbread for a hearty meal. This dish is versatile and can complement various sides, making it a great addition to any summer cookout.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover chili sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, consider freezing the sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Hot Dog Chili Sauce contains roughly 208 calories, with 7g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1509mg per serving (66% of the Daily Value).

208 kcal 10% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.1g 14% DV
Total Fat 4g 5% DV
Carbs 44.5g 16% DV
Fiber 12.1g 43% DV
Sugar 6.9g 14% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1508.9mg 66% DV
Potassium 1054.8mg 22% DV
Cholesterol 2.7mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 274.9mcg 31% DV
Vitamin C 52.1mg 58% DV
Calcium 103mg 8% DV
Iron 4.9mg 27% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-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 use other types of meat for this chili sauce?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option. Each will lend a different flavor profile, so choose according to your dietary preferences or needs.

How can I make this chili sauce spicier?

To add more heat, incorporate diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce while simmering. Adjust the amount to suit your taste, and consider tasting as you go to reach your desired spice level.

What can I serve with hot dog chili sauce?

Hot dog chili sauce is fantastic over grilled hot dogs, but it also pairs well with nachos, baked potatoes, or even as a topping for chili cheese fries. For a complete meal, serve with a side of coleslaw or cornbread.

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).

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