Crockpot Hot Dog Chili

Crockpot hot dog chili is the secret to turning an everyday backyard hot dog or football night fries into something crave-worthy. This savory and classic chili is all about tender beef and a touch of sweetness simmered low and slow for the absolute best flavor and texture. If your family loves chili dogs at ballgames or from old-fashioned diners, this easy homemade version will be a hit in your kitchen too.

I have experimented with a lot of chili recipes and this one wins for my family because the hint of mustard and Worcestershire gives classic chili dog flavor. After years of trying to copy my town’s famous drive-in chili I finally nailed it with this version and we make it for almost every backyard cookout.

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef: choose ninety ten for the perfect balance of flavor and less grease
• Water: helps mince the beef extra finely as it cooks
• Tomato sauce: gives body and makes the chili saucy
• Ketchup: adds sweetness and a tangy depth
• Yellow mustard: brings classic hot dog shop flavor
• Worcestershire sauce: packs in umami richness
• Chili powder: the heart of chili flavor use fresh for best taste
• Salt: enhances all the other flavors
• Black pepper: adds gentle heat and depth
• Sugar: a little balances the acidity and rounds out the sauce
• Onion powder or minced onion: either adds savoriness without any large pieces you can use sweet yellow onions if mincing from fresh

Instructions

Brown the Beef:

In a large skillet over medium heat add the ground beef and water. Use a wooden spoon or potato masher to break up the meat into tiny crumbles as it cooks. This helps you achieve that signature fine chili dog chili texture. Continue stirring and breaking up the meat until no pink remains then drain off the excess grease

Combine Everything in the Crockpot:

Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker. Add tomato sauce ketchup yellow mustard Worcestershire sauce chili powder salt black pepper sugar and your onion powder or minced onion of choice. Stir thoroughly so the seasonings and sauces are evenly distributed throughout the meat

Slow Simmer:

Cover the crockpot and set to low. Let the chili gently cook for two to two and a half hours. This slow process allows the beef to soak up all the flavors and the sauce to thicken perfectly. Give it a stir halfway through to make sure nothing sticks to the sides

Serve:

Stir the finished chili well just before serving. Spoon generously over hot dogs fries burgers or even nachos for your favorite game night treat

My personal favorite part is the smell that fills the house while this simmers. It reminds me of summer fairs with my dad watching our local baseball team and piling on the chili exactly how we liked it. The ketchup and mustard give that nostalgic hot dog flair which my kids now insist on for every movie night.

Storage Tips

Allow leftovers to cool then store in an airtight container in the fridge for four days. For longer storage ladle into a freezer-safe bag and press flat for easy stacking. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or microwave stirring occasionally

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey works for a lighter version but beef has the best classic taste. Swap tomato sauce for crushed tomatoes if needed just pulse them in a blender first to keep the sauce smooth. If you want a spicier kick add a bit of cayenne or chopped green chiles

Serving Suggestions

Serve spooned over grilled hot dogs on soft buns top with finely chopped onions and shredded cheddar. For a party set up a chili bar with fries nachos diced red onions jalapenos and all your favorite toppings

Cultural Notes

Southern diners love their hot dog chili super smooth and fine almost like a sauce so breaking up the beef well is key. This style is a comfort food tradition in many regions and you will find secret recipes proudly passed down in local families

Seasonal Adaptations

Great for summer cookouts or tailgating just keep warm in your crockpot on low for serving throughout the event In winter serve over baked potatoes for a cozy dinner Add canned green chiles in spring for a fresh twist

This chili is always a hit at parties and family gatherings—satisfying, nostalgic, and so easy to make. Give it a taste test before serving and you will see why it is a classic.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of ground beef works best?

Lean ground beef, such as 90/10, provides robust flavor with less grease, keeping the chili rich but not overly fatty.

→ Can I use fresh onions instead of onion powder?

Yes, substitute 1 tablespoon minced onion for the powder to add a touch of sweetness and texture.

→ How long should the chili cook in the crockpot?

Cook on LOW for about 2 to 2½ hours for optimum flavor melding and a pleasing consistency.

→ What dishes pair well with this chili?

This chili is perfect for hot dogs, fries, burgers, baked potatoes, and nachos—ideal for casual meals or gatherings.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

Increase or decrease the chili powder as desired; start with less and add more for spicier results.

→ Is it possible to make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the chili in advance and store in the refrigerator; reheat gently before serving.