Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a perfectly grilled hot dog smothered in rich, flavorful chili sauce.
This Hot Dog Chili Sauce recipe brings that classic diner-style taste right to your kitchen.
It’s thick, meaty, and perfectly seasoned — just the right balance of sweet, savory, and spicy to take your hot dogs to the next level.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or making a quick family dinner, this sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon sugar (optional)
• ½ cup water or beef broth
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef: In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbly. Use a spoon or potato masher to break it into fine bits for a smoother chili texture.
2. Add Aromatics: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 3–4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. Add Seasonings and Tomato Base: Mix in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and all the seasonings — chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using).
4. Simmer: Pour in the water or beef broth, stir well, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to your desired consistency.
5. Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed — more salt for flavor, more chili powder for heat, or a bit more sugar if it’s too tangy.
6. Serve: Spoon the hot dog chili sauce over freshly grilled hot dogs and top with chopped onions, shredded cheese, or a drizzle of mustard for the perfect finish.

Description

This Hot Dog Chili Sauce is the ultimate topping for any cookout or family night.
It’s meaty, flavorful, and thick enough to cling to your hot dog without making the bun soggy.
The blend of spices and tomato base gives it that nostalgic, old-fashioned flavor reminiscent of classic American diners.
It also works beautifully on fries, burgers, or baked potatoes.

Tips

• Texture tip: Use a potato masher or food processor to make the beef extra fine for a smoother chili.
• Flavor boost: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra depth.
• Make ahead: This chili sauce tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Serving ideas: Try it on chili cheese dogs, over nachos, or spooned onto fries for a quick chili fries dish.

Correction

• If your chili sauce turns out too watery, let it simmer longer uncovered to reduce.
• If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or broth.
• If it tastes bland, increase the chili powder or Worcestershire sauce for a stronger flavor kick.