Jim'S Hot Dog Chili
A hearty, savory chili perfect for hot dogs or casual gatherings, featuring rich tomato flavors, onions, garlic, and a hint of vinegar for depth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground chuck and chopped onions in a large skillet.
- Mix in all remaining ingredients: tomato paste, tomato sauce, sugar, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, chili powder, and apple cider vinegar.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish and cook in a 375°F oven for 3 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the skillet when browning the meat and onions. If you prefer a sweeter chili, you can substitute honey for sugar. Use ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter or vegan option. Adjust the chili powder to your spice preference, and feel free to experiment with different types of vinegar.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Jim's Hot Dog Chili over grilled hot dogs for a classic experience, or use it as a topping for baked potatoes and nachos. It pairs beautifully with a side of cornbread or a fresh salad. For a delightful dessert, consider serving No Bake Strawberry Short Cake after your meal to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the chili in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop or microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally to maintain even heat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jim'S Hot Dog Chili contains roughly 1201 calories, with 43g protein, 293g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (313% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (232% of the Daily Value), and iron (179% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2407mg per serving (105% 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?
Yes, you can prepare this chili a day or two in advance. In fact, letting it sit in the fridge overnight can enhance the flavors. Just reheat gently before serving.
Is it possible to make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the meat and onions, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Can I add beans to this chili?
Yes, adding beans can enhance the texture and flavor. Canned kidney beans or black beans work well. Just stir them in during the last hour of cooking to heat them through.
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).