Southern Style Hot Dog Chili

This Southern Style Hot Dog Chili recipe strikes the perfect balance between rich flavor and simplicity, making it an ideal topping for your favorite hot dogs. It is designed not to overpower the hot dog itself but to complement it with a savory, slightly thickened sauce that brings a classic taste to your backyard BBQs, potlucks, or quick weeknight dinners.

I first made this chili on a busy weeknight when I needed a quick meal that still felt special. Ever since, it has become a favorite addition to all our summer cookouts and always gets compliments from friends and family.

Ingredients

• Onion: fresh and firm to add natural sweetness and build the flavor base
• Garlic: fresh for a fragrant aroma and depth
• Ground beef: lean to control grease but flavorful enough to be hearty
• Chili powder: adds warmth and classic chili flavor pick a quality blend without excess salt
• Sugar: balances acidity from the tomato paste, creating harmony in taste
• Cumin: earthy notes that deepen the chili’s character
• Vegetable oil: neutral for sautéing without competing flavors
• Cornmeal: acts as a natural thickener opt for fine grind to avoid graininess
• Kosher salt: essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors
• Worcestershire sauce: adds a savory tang and umami boost
• Beef broth: rich and flavorful to meld everything together while thinning slightly if needed
• Tomato paste: provides concentrated tomato flavor and good body to the chili

Instructions

Sauté the Onions and Garlic:

Heat vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium high heat. Add diced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and soft around 5 to 7 minutes. Add minced garlic and continue stirring for one more minute so the aroma releases without burning.

Brown and Break Up the Ground Beef:

Add the ground beef to the saucepan with the onions and garlic. Use a potato masher or spatula to break the beef into very small pieces as it cooks. Keep stirring to evenly brown the meat on all sides, about 5 to 8 minutes. If you notice a lot of grease accumulating, carefully pour some off for a leaner chili.

Combine Remaining Ingredients:

Add chili powder, sugar, cumin, salt, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, and cornmeal to the browned mixture. Stir very well to fully incorporate everything and prevent lumps from the cornmeal.

Simmer to Develop Flavor and Thickness:

Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer gently for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to avoid sticking. This step marries the flavors and thickens the chili to perfect consistency. Taste and adjust salt if necessary.

Ready to Serve or Keep Warm:

Serve immediately over hot dogs or keep in a slow cooker on a warm setting to allow guests to help themselves at a party.

Cornmeal is a clever thickener that keeps the chili hearty without adding heaviness. It also adds a subtle texture that sets this chili apart from others. One of my favorite family memories was serving this chili at a summer cookout where everyone made their own chili dogs with an array of toppings. It was fun, informal, and the chili was the star that brought people together.

Storage Tips

Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To freeze, first cool completely and seal in a freezer safe bag, pressing out as much air as possible. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a leaner version though flavor will be lighter. Beef broth may be swapped for chicken broth or water but expect less depth. If you don’t have cornmeal, a small amount of flour can be used but add cautiously as it thickens differently.

Serving Suggestions

While ideal on classic hot dogs, try this chili over crispy tater tots or french fries topped with melted cheddar cheese for a fun twist. For a fuller Appalachian style experience, add cole slaw and chow chow on top for contrasting textures and tangy bites.

This hot dog chili is quick to make and highly customizable. Serve it over hot dogs or fries for an easy crowd pleaser.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What makes hot dog chili different from regular chili?

Hot dog chili is thicker, contains no beans, and uses finely ground beef along with tomato paste instead of chunks and whole tomatoes common in regular chili.

→ What are the main ingredients in this chili?

Ground beef, garlic, onion, tomato paste, beef broth, and a blend of spices including chili powder, cumin, and Worcestershire sauce.

→ Can I adjust the spiciness of this chili?

Yes, adding diced jalapeños or green chiles will increase the heat to suit your taste.

→ Is it possible to prepare this chili in a slow cooker?

While not recommended for cooking from scratch, the chili can be kept warm in a slow cooker once prepared on the stove.

→ How can I store leftover chili safely?

Store leftovers in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze for up to three months in a sealed freezer bag.

→ Why is cornmeal added to this chili?

Cornmeal acts as a thickener, providing the chili with its characteristic hearty texture.