Uncle Bob'S Hot Dog Chili
A hearty, flavorful hot dog chili with ground beef, tomato juice, and spices, perfect for topping hot dogs or serving over baked potatoes, appealing to meat lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef with tomato juice; add onion and bay leaf. Bring to a boil and cook until the tomato juice is cooked off.
- Add remaining ingredients; simmer for 1 hour.
- Drain off fat with a spoon.
- Add catsup and water to thin the chili slightly.
- Adjust chili powder to taste if needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and pork. If you're out of tomato juice, crushed tomatoes or a blend of tomato paste and water works well. Adjust the level of heat by varying the amount of hot pepper flakes. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the umami flavor of the chili, making it a great complement to dishes like Hot Cheesy Dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chili over hot dogs for a classic dish, or alongside cornbread for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of coleslaw or potato salad for a complete picnic spread. For a fun twist, use it as a topping for nachos or baked potatoes. This versatile chili is perfect for gatherings, making it a great choice for potluck events.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in a covered dish, adding a splash of water if it seems too thick. Chili tends to taste even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Uncle Bob'S Hot Dog Chili contains roughly 191 calories, with 7g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (248% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (38% 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 2453mg per serving (107% 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 use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just be mindful that the cooking time may vary slightly, and you might want to add a bit of oil to prevent the meat from drying out.
How can I make this chili vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with lentils or your favorite meat substitute. You can also add more beans and vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added texture and flavor.
What can I serve this chili with?
This chili is fantastic on its own, but you can also serve it over hot dogs, with cornbread, or even as a topping for nachos. Pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
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).