The Juiciest Crockpot Hot Dog Chili Recipe for Game Day Fun

Simmering on lazy weekends, this hearty crockpot hot dog chili brings comfort straight to your table.

Tender beef melding with rich spices for an unforgettable meal.

Generations of home cooks have perfected their secret blends, and now you can join that delicious tradition.

Weeknight dinners become instantly more exciting with this simple yet robust recipe.

Game day gatherings or casual family suppers will never be the same once you master this incredible chili.

Each spoonful promises deep, robust flavors that dance between tangy and warm.

Pack your favorite toppings and get ready to create mouthwatering memories with every bite.

Tips That Make Crockpot Hot Dog Chili Even Better

• Drain Fat Thoroughly: Remove as much grease as possible after browning beef to prevent a greasy, heavy chili and ensure a cleaner, more appetizing dish.
• Spice Adjustment: Customize heat levels by increasing or decreasing cayenne pepper, allowing everyone to enjoy the chili according to their spice tolerance.
• Vegetarian Swap: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a meat-free version that maintains the rich, hearty flavor profile.
• Freezer-Friendly Option: Prepare large batches and store in airtight containers for up to 3 months, making meal prep easier and providing quick dinner solutions.
• Thickening Trick: If chili seems too thin, leave the lid off during the last hour of cooking to help reduce and concentrate the sauce naturally.

How to Store and Serve Crockpot Hot Dog Chili

• Refrigerate: Store leftover hot dog chili in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Freeze: Transfer cooled chili to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring no air pockets remain to prevent freezer burn.
• Reheat Refrigerated Chili: Warm in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water if the chili seems too thick. Heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Thaw and Reheat Frozen Chili: Defrost overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stovetop. Stir frequently to maintain smooth consistency and prevent scorching.

What Goes Well with Crockpot Hot Dog Chili

• Pair with Crisp Lager: Grab a cold, light beer like Budweiser or Coors Light to cut through the rich, spicy chili. The crisp, refreshing taste balances the hearty meat and bold flavors perfectly.
• Serve with Tangy Coleslaw: Whip up a zesty coleslaw with vinegar-based dressing to provide a cool, crunchy contrast to the warm, savory chili. The acidic notes will brighten up the entire dish.
• Match with Corn Chips: Serve crunchy corn tortilla chips on the side for scooping and added texture. These will give a satisfying crackle and help soak up the delicious chili sauce.
• Cool Down with Root Beer: Enjoy a classic root beer alongside your hot dogs and chili. Its sweet, smooth flavor complements the spicy meat and provides a nostalgic backyard barbecue feel.

Creative Changes to Crockpot Hot Dog Chili

• Spicy Southwest Chili Dogs: Kick up the heat by adding diced green chilies, jalapeños, and a dash of chipotle powder for a southwestern flavor punch.
• Tex-Mex Style Chili Dogs: Mix in black beans, corn kernels, and top with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a zesty Mexican-inspired version.
• Smoky BBQ Chili Dogs: Incorporate barbecue sauce instead of ketchup, add a touch of liquid smoke, and sprinkle with crispy bacon bits for a rich, smoky profile.
• Veggie-Loaded Chili Dogs: Replace half the ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles, add diced bell peppers, and extra spices for a heartier vegetarian option.

Your Crockpot Hot Dog Chili Questions

• Can I make this chili less spicy?

Yes, simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. You can also skip the smoked paprika if you want a milder flavor profile.

• Is it okay to use different types of ground meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work great as substitutes for beef. Just ensure the meat is fully cooked before adding to the crockpot.

• How can I thicken the chili if it's too runny?

Let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes or use a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water) and stir it into the chili to help thicken.

• Can I freeze this hot dog chili?

Yes, this chili freezes wonderfully. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Why Crockpot Hot Dog Chili Is Game Day Gold

• Unleash Slow-Cooker Simplicity: Crockpot hot dog chili transforms dinner prep into an effortless experience, letting the appliance do all the hard work while you relax.
• Flavor-Packed Comfort: The combination of Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and multiple spices creates a deeply rich and complex taste profile that elevates classic hot dog toppings.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for game day gatherings, family dinners, or casual weekend meals, this chili recipe adapts easily to different preferences and can be customized with various toppings.
• Meal Prep Magic: Easily make ahead and store, this chili tastes even better the next day and can be frozen for quick future meals, making it a smart choice for busy households.

Hot Dog Chili Ingredients for Your Crockpot

• Ground Beef: The star protein that gives the chili its hearty texture and rich flavor. Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
• Diced Onion: Adds depth and sweetness to the meat base. Fresh onions provide the best flavor.

• Tomato Sauce: Creates the smooth, thick base for the chili. Look for high-quality, no-sugar-added varieties.
• Ketchup: Brings tangy sweetness and helps bind the sauce. Classic American-style ketchup works best.
• Water: Helps create the right consistency and prevents the chili from becoming too thick.

• Worcestershire Sauce, Chili Powder, Garlic Powder, Smoked Paprika, Mustard, Cumin, Black Pepper, Salt, Cayenne Pepper: This blend of spices creates a complex, bold flavor profile. Freshly ground spices will provide the most intense taste. Adjust cayenne for heat preference.

Step-by-Step for Crockpot Hot Dog Chili

Step 1: Brown Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium flame. Toss in ground beef and diced onions, cooking until meat turns golden brown and crumbles completely. Drain away any excess grease to keep the chili light and tasty.

Step 2: Create Flavor Base

• Tomato sauce
• Ketchup
• Worcestershire sauce
• Chili powder
• Garlic powder
• Smoked paprika
• Mustard
• Cumin
• Black pepper
• Salt
• Cayenne pepper (optional for heat lovers)
• Water

Stir everything together until well combined, letting the ingredients get friendly with each other.

Step 3: Slow Cook To Perfection

• Low and slow: 4-6 hours
• Quick and hot: 2-3 hours

Occasionally give the chili a gentle stir to help flavors dance and blend.

Step 4: Serve With Excitement

• Shredded cheese
• Diced fresh onions
• Sliced jalapenos
• Sour cream
• Chopped green onions

Enjoy your homemade hot dog chili that’s guaranteed to make taste buds do a happy dance!

Crockpot Hot Dog Chili Recipe

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4.7 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 4-6 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty Crockpot Hot Dog Chili delivers comfort through slow-simmered, robust flavors that dance across palates. Meat lovers and casual diners will savor this classic American dish that perfectly complements grilled hot dogs and backyard gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound (450 g) ground beef

Spices and Seasonings:

• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Liquid and Vegetables:

• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 cup (240 ml) tomato sauce
• ½ cup (120 ml) ketchup
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ cup (60 ml) water

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Instructions

1. Prepare the ground beef by sizzling it in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat, incorporating finely chopped onions until the meat transforms into a rich, caramel-brown hue and the onions become translucent.
2. Eliminate excess grease by carefully draining the meat mixture, ensuring a clean and concentrated flavor profile.
3. Transition the seasoned beef into the crockpot, creating a robust foundation for the chili.
4. Infuse the meat with a symphony of zesty seasonings: tangy tomato sauce, robust ketchup, pungent Worcestershire sauce, earthy chili powder, aromatic garlic powder, smoky paprika, bold mustard, warm cumin, sharp black pepper, and a whisper of salt.
5. For those craving an extra kick, sprinkle in cayenne pepper to elevate the heat level.
6. Introduce a measured splash of water to help blend the ingredients and create a harmonious consistency.
7. Thoroughly mix all components, ensuring each morsel is generously coated with the complex flavor blend.
8. Cover the crockpot and allow the chili to simmer gently, developing deep, layered flavors through slow cooking.
9. For a more intense taste, opt for low heat during 4-6 hours or high heat for 2-3 hours, occasionally stirring to prevent sticking.
10. Once the chili reaches a thick, luxurious texture, it’s ready to be lavishly spooned over hot dogs.
11. Garnish with optional toppings like sharp shredded cheese, crisp diced onions, or fiery jalapenos to personalize your culinary creation.

Notes

• Drain beef thoroughly to prevent watery chili and ensure a rich, concentrated flavor profile.
• Use lean ground beef (90/10) for less grease while maintaining delicious meaty texture.
• Adjust spice levels by reducing or increasing cayenne and chili powder according to personal heat tolerance.
• Create a low-sodium version by selecting reduced-sodium tomato sauce and skipping added salt, perfect for heart-healthy diets.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg