North Carolina Hot Dog Chili
North Carolina Hot Dog Chili offers a flavorful, savory topping with a hint of tang, perfect for hot dogs and rolls. Its rich, spiced profile makes it a great choice for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners, appealing to those who enjoy hearty, zesty condiments with a Southern twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute hamburger and onion in a skillet until browned; drain excess fat.
- Return the cooked hamburger and onion to a deep skillet or heavy 2-quart pot.
- Add tomato sauce, water, chili powder, vinegar, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture.
- Cook on low heat for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, adding small amounts of water as needed to prevent sticking.
- Continue cooking until most of the liquid has evaporated and the chili is thickened.
- Serve hot over hot dogs and rolls, garnished with slaw, mustard, and chopped onion if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a spoonful of brown sugar to balance the acidity of the tomato sauce. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce the chili powder or substitute with paprika. Ground turkey can be used instead of hamburger for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili hot over grilled hot dogs in buns, topped with coleslaw, mustard, and diced onions for a classic North Carolina experience. Pair with Corn Bread You Will Like for a complete meal, or enjoy with a side of Best Baked Beans for a hearty barbecue spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to regain the desired consistency. It can also be reheated in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of North Carolina Hot Dog Chili contains roughly 340 calories, with 5g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (26% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2361mg per serving (103% 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 in advance?
Absolutely! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day ahead, cool completely, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat and enjoy.
Is this chili spicy?
The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your preference. Start with 2 teaspoons of chili powder and taste as it cooks, adding more if you desire a stronger kick. This allows you to customize the heat level for all palates.
What types of hot dogs work best with this chili?
All-beef hot dogs are a popular choice, but you can use any type you prefer, including turkey or vegetarian options. The chili's robust flavor complements the hot dog's taste, making it a versatile topping for any variety.
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).