Tangy and Spicy Crockpot Hot Dog Chili Topping

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🌶️ Tangy and Spicy Crockpot Hot Dog Chili Topping

📖 Description

This Tangy and Spicy Crockpot Hot Dog Chili Topping is a rich, bold, and slow-simmered chili made specifically for hot dogs. Unlike traditional bowl chili, this version is smooth, saucy, and finely textured, making it perfect for spooning over hot dogs without overpowering the bun. The crockpot allows the flavors to deepen over time, blending tangy tomato notes with smoky spices and a gentle heat that can be adjusted to taste. Ideal for cookouts, game days, or easy weeknight meals.

📝 Ingredients

  • 1½ lbs ground beef (80/20 preferred)

  • 1 small onion, finely minced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup tomato sauce

  • ½ cup ketchup

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

  • 1 tbsp yellow mustard

  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

  • 1½ tbsp chili powder

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp cumin

  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)

  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, balances acidity)

  • ½ cup water or beef broth

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef
    In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it into very fine crumbles. Drain excess fat.

  2. Transfer to Crockpot
    Add the cooked beef to the slow cooker. Stir in onion and garlic.

  3. Add Remaining Ingredients
    Mix in tomato sauce, ketchup, tomato paste, mustard, vinegar, spices, sugar (if using), and water or broth.

  4. Slow Cook
    Cover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.

  5. Final Texture Adjustment
    For a smoother topping, use a potato masher or immersion blender briefly.

  6. Serve Warm
    Spoon generously over hot dogs and add your favorite toppings.

🧠 Notes

  • This chili is bean-free by design, keeping it traditional for hot dogs.

  • Flavor improves the longer it cooks.

  • Can be made a day ahead for even better taste.

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Finer beef crumbles give the best hot dog chili texture.

  • Add hot sauce or crushed red pepper for extra heat.

  • For extra tang, increase vinegar by ½ teaspoon.

  • Keep warm in the crockpot for parties.

🍽️ Servings

  • Makes 8–10 servings

  • Covers approximately 10–12 hot dogs

🥗 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 180

  • Protein: 12g

  • Fat: 13g

  • Carbohydrates: 6g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sugar: 4g

  • Sodium: 420mg

✅ Benefits

  • High protein for satiety

  • Slow-cooked flavors with minimal effort

  • Customizable spice level

  • Perfect for meal prep, parties, and family meals

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I freeze this chili?
A: Yes! Cool completely, store in airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I make it less spicy?
A: Reduce or omit cayenne pepper and use mild chili powder.

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Absolutely. Use dark meat turkey for better flavor and add a splash of oil.

Q: How do I thicken the chili?
A: Cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes or add an extra tablespoon of tomato paste.

Q: Is this good for other uses?
A: Yes! It works great on fries, baked potatoes, burgers, or nachos.

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