Libby'S Hot Dog Sauce

Cook: 30 min Cuisine: American

A flavorful and hearty hot dog sauce with savory beef, tangy vinegar, and spices, perfect for elevating your hot dog experience and satisfying craving for bold flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. hamburger
  • 1 onion, chopped fine
  • 2 Tbsp. oil
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 1/2 cup sweet pickle relish
  • 2 Tbsp. chili powder
  • 2 cans tomato paste
  • 2 or 3 cups water
  • 1/4 tsp. paprika
  • dash of Worcestershire

Instructions

  1. Brown the hamburger and chopped onion in oil.
  2. Add salt, pepper, paprika, chili powder, vinegar, relish, tomato paste, water, Worcestershire, and other ingredients.
  3. Simmer until the meat is well cooked and flavors meld.
  4. Add hot pepper if desired, and continue simmering for better flavor.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder to the meat while browning. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger for a leaner option. If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of water added. Adjust the chili powder and paprika to your taste for spiciness. This sauce can also be used as a topping for baked potatoes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hot dog sauce over grilled hot dogs in buns for a classic treat. It pairs well with a side of coleslaw or potato salad. For a hearty meal, try it over a baked potato or with a side of Alabama Baked Beans. This sauce is also perfect for nachos or as a topping for chili cheese fries.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover hot dog sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Libby'S Hot Dog Sauce contains roughly 1703 calories, with 30g protein, 138g carbohydrates, and 141g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (255% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1213mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).

1703 kcal 85% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 29.6g 59% DV
Total Fat 141.3g 100% DV
Carbs 137.5g 50% DV
Fiber 71.3g 100% DV
Sugar 41.7g 83% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1213.5mg 53% DV
Potassium 4778.3mg 100% DV
Cholesterol 0.1mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 3000mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 5.1mg 6% DV
Calcium 488.9mg 38% DV
Iron 40mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber

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 hot dog sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the hot dog sauce a day in advance. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making it even tastier when served.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute the hamburger with a plant-based ground meat alternative or finely chopped mushrooms and lentils. Adjust the seasoning to ensure it remains flavorful and satisfying.

What types of hot dogs pair best with this sauce?

Any type of hot dog works well, but beef or turkey hot dogs are popular choices. For a gourmet twist, try using bratwurst or kielbasa. Grilling the hot dogs adds a smoky flavor that complements the sauce.

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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