Introduction:
Elevate your hot dog game with the irresistible flavors of our Crockpot Hot Dog Chili recipe. This hearty and flavorful chili is slow-cooked to perfection in a crockpot, allowing the rich blend of spices, ground beef, and tomatoes to meld together into a mouthwatering sauce that’s perfect for topping your favorite hot dogs. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, game day gathering, or simply craving a classic comfort food fix, this Crockpot Hot Dog Chili is sure to hit the spot. Join us as we explore the simple steps to create this crowd-pleasing dish and discover why it’s a must-have addition to your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (use a lean cut like 90/10)
– 1/3 cup water
– 5 ounces tomato sauce
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder or minced onion
Directions:
- In a medium skillet over medium heat, combine the ground beef and water. Break up the ground beef into fine pieces while cooking.
- Drain off any remaining water or grease from the skillet.
- Transfer the cooked ground beef to your slow cooker.
- Add all the remaining ingredients to the slow cooker with the ground beef and stir together until well combined.
- Cover and let cook on LOW for 2 to 2-1/2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Once cooked, serve the hot dog chili on top of your favorite hot dogs, french fries, or burgers.
- Enjoy the deliciousness of this crockpot hot dog chili with your favorite summer meals!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 2 to 2-1/2 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 8
Serving Tips:
- Top Hot Dogs with Chili: Spoon generous servings of Crockpot Hot Dog Chili onto grilled hot dogs nestled in soft buns. Allow guests to customize their chili dogs with additional toppings such as shredded cheese, diced onions, pickled jalapenos, and a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and texture.
- Create a Chili Bar: Set up a chili bar with an assortment of toppings, including shredded cheese, diced onions, chopped tomatoes, sliced jalapenos, sour cream, and chopped cilantro. Provide bowls or plates for guests to build their own chili dogs, nachos, or chili cheese fries, adding a fun and interactive element to your gathering.
- Pair with Cornbread or Chips: Serve Crockpot Hot Dog Chili alongside freshly baked cornbread or corn muffins for a classic Southern-inspired pairing. Alternatively, use the chili as a dip for tortilla chips or corn chips, or as a topping for loaded nachos for a delicious appetizer option.
- Garnish Creatively: Before serving, garnish the chili with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and added freshness. You can also drizzle a swirl of sour cream or sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top for an indulgent finishing touch.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Allow any leftover Crockpot Hot Dog Chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.
- Freezing: Crockpot Hot Dog Chili can be frozen for longer storage. Allow the chili to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. Label the containers with the date and store them in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Portion Control: Consider portioning leftover chili into individual servings before freezing for convenient reheating. This allows you to thaw and reheat only the amount you need, minimizing waste and ensuring that you always have a quick and easy meal option on hand.
- Reheat Safely: When reheating frozen or refrigerated Crockpot Hot Dog Chili, ensure that it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any bacteria and prevent foodborne illness. Stir the chili occasionally during reheating to ensure even heating throughout.
FAQs:
- Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef in the Chili? Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in the Crockpot Hot Dog Chili recipe. Keep in mind that ground turkey has a milder flavor than beef, so you may need to adjust the seasonings to taste.
- Can I Make Crockpot Hot Dog Chili Without a Crockpot? While a crockpot (slow cooker) is ideal for this recipe, you can also make the chili on the stovetop. Simply simmer the ingredients in a large pot over low heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld together and the chili thickens to your desired consistency.
- Is Crockpot Hot Dog Chili Spicy? The level of spiciness in the Crockpot Hot Dog Chili can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a milder chili, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the cayenne pepper altogether. Conversely, if you like it spicy, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Can I Freeze Leftover Crockpot Hot Dog Chili? Yes, leftover Crockpot Hot Dog Chili can be frozen for longer storage. Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen chili in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- What Can I Serve with Crockpot Hot Dog Chili Besides Hot Dogs? In addition to topping hot dogs, Crockpot Hot Dog Chili can be served over French fries, baked potatoes, nachos, rice, or even as a topping for chili cheese fries. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of foods and can be enjoyed in many different ways.
Conclusion:
Crockpot Hot Dog Chili is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a comforting meal at home. With its convenient slow cooking method, hearty flavor, and versatile serving options, this chili is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So, fire up your crockpot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of homemade Crockpot Hot Dog Chili.