Crockpot Hot Dog Chili – Hearty, Flavor-Packed & Effortless

Crockpot Hot Dog Chili is the ultimate topping to take your hot dogs to the next level. Rich, meaty, and perfectly seasoned, this slow-cooked chili adds just the right amount of savory spice without overpowering the classic hot dog flavor. It’s thick enough to stay put on your bun but tender enough to melt into every bite. Whether you’re serving a crowd at game night, a backyard cookout, or just a cozy family dinner, this chili is the perfect all-day simmer that requires almost no effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect Hot Dog Topping: Thick, hearty, and packed with flavor.
Set & Forget: Let your crockpot do the work while you relax.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for barbecues, potlucks, and game-day gatherings.
Versatile: Delicious on hot dogs, burgers, baked potatoes, or nachos.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) petite diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp cumin
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Optional toppings: shredded cheddar, chopped onions, jalapeños

Instructions

1. Brown the Meat
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef (or turkey) until browned. Drain excess fat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened.

2. Transfer to Crockpot
Add the cooked beef mixture to the slow cooker. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and all seasonings.

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

4. Adjust Consistency
If chili is too thick, stir in a splash of beef broth. If too thin, let cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.

5. Serve
Spoon the hot dog chili over freshly grilled hot dogs, then add your favorite toppings.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 150
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 6g
Protein: 16g
Fiber: 2g

Tips for Success

• Make It Ahead: This chili reheats beautifully, so it’s perfect for meal prep.
• Keep It Warm: Use the “warm” setting on your slow cooker for serving at parties.
• Double It: Great for feeding a crowd—just double the recipe.
• Spice It Up: Add cayenne or hot sauce for a spicier kick.

Why This Recipe Works

Slow cooking allows the beef, tomatoes, and spices to meld together into a rich, savory chili with just the right texture for topping hot dogs. It’s easy, flavorful, and endlessly versatile—perfect for when you want to serve something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Crockpot Hot Dog Chili is a hearty, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing recipe that transforms ordinary hot dogs into something truly special. With its rich taste and easy prep, it’s bound to become your go-to topping for cookouts, game nights, and beyond.