Crockpot Hot Dog Chili
A hearty and delicious chili made with ground beef, tomato sauce, and spices, perfect for hot dogs, burgers, or as a standalone dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (lean cut like 90/10) The star of the show! This flavorful meat will make your chili hearty and satisfying.
- 1/3 cup water Helps to break down the beef while cooking, adding moisture to your chili.
- 5 ounces tomato sauce Adds a rich, savory depth that complements the spices.
- 1/2 cup ketchup This sweet and tangy condiment enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard Gives a zesty kick that balances the sweetness of the ketchup.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Adds umami, giving the chili a savory complexity.
- 2 teaspoons chili powder Introduces a warm spiciness that makes your chili enticing.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Brings out all the delicious flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper Adds a subtle warmth and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar Balances the acidity of the tomatoes and ketchup.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (or minced onion) Enhances the savory richness of the chili.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a skillet over medium heat, add ground beef and water. Break up the beef as it cooks until it’s finely crumbled. Drain any excess water or grease.
Cooking
- Transfer the cooked beef to your slow cooker. Layer in the tomato sauce, ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, salt, pepper, sugar, and onion powder. Stir everything together.
- Let the chili cook on LOW for 2 to 2.5 hours.
Serving
- Serve the chili over hot dogs, French fries, or burgers.
Notes
For thick chili, let it simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes. Experiment with spices like cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. For a vegetarian version, use textured vegetable protein or lentils. Garnish with fresh chopped herbs or toppings like cheese or jalapeños.