Crockpot Hot Dog Chili

Introduction:
When it comes to crowd-pleasing comfort food, few things rival the classic hot dog topped with flavorful chili. But why settle for canned chili when you can easily make your own delicious version at home? This Crockpot Hot Dog Chili recipe not only elevates your hot dog game but also simplifies your cooking process. Just set it and forget it, allowing your slow cooker to work its magic while you tend to other tasks. Let’s dive into this recipe that promises to become a favorite for weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, and backyard barbecues alike.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Hot dog buns, for serving
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced onions, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, sour cream

Instructions:

this recipe

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
2. Transfer to Crockpot: Place the cooked ground beef into the crockpot/slow cooker. Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, and diced tomatoes (with their juices) into the crockpot. Sprinkle the chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) over the mixture.
4. Stir and Cook: Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours, or on high heat for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally if possible.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once the chili is thickened and flavors have melded, it’s ready to serve. Toast the hot dog buns if desired, then fill each bun with a hot dog and generously ladle the chili on top. Add your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, diced onions, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, or sour cream.

Conclusion:
With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this Crockpot Hot Dog Chili recipe is a game-changer for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a laid-back family dinner or a lively backyard barbecue, this crowd-pleasing dish will surely impress your guests. So, fire up your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy the unbeatable combination of juicy hot dogs smothered in savory homemade chili.

Serving Tips:

1. Customize Your Toppings: Set up a toppings bar with a variety of options so everyone can personalize their hot dog chili experience. Offer classics like shredded cheese, diced onions, and sliced jalapeños, as well as unique toppings like chopped cilantro or crumbled bacon.
2. Pair with Sides: Serve your hot dog chili alongside classic sides like potato chips, coleslaw, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal. Cornbread or garlic bread also make tasty accompaniments.
3. Make it a Meal: Turn your hot dog chili into a hearty meal by serving it over baked potatoes or cooked pasta. Top with additional cheese and a dollop of sour cream for extra indulgence.
4. Serve with Cornbread: Cornbread is a classic pairing with chili, and it pairs particularly well with the flavors of this hot dog chili. Bake up a batch of cornbread muffins or a skillet of cornbread to serve alongside the chili for a satisfying meal.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: Allow any leftover chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freezing: Hot dog chili freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Allow the chili to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
3. Reheating: Reheat leftover chili on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave, stirring halfway through, until heated to your liking.
4. Batch Cooking: Consider making a double batch of hot dog chili and freezing the extra portions for future meals. It’s a time-saving strategy that ensures you always have a delicious meal on hand, whether for a quick weeknight dinner or impromptu entertaining.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can make the most of your Crockpot Hot Dog Chili, whether you’re serving it fresh or enjoying it as leftovers.

Q: Can I make this hot dog chili recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the chili up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, and then assemble your hot dogs.

Q: Can I adjust the spice level of the chili to suit my taste preferences?
A: Yes, you can easily customize the spice level of the chili to your liking. If you prefer a milder chili, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. On the other hand, if you like it spicier, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add extra cayenne pepper.

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the ground beef in this recipe if you prefer a leaner option or if you don’t eat beef. Simply cook the ground turkey or chicken in the skillet until it’s no longer pink, then proceed with the recipe as directed.

Q: Can I make this hot dog chili recipe on the stovetop instead of using a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking if you don’t have a slow cooker. Simply follow the same instructions, but instead of transferring the ingredients to a crockpot, simmer the chili on the stovetop over low heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally until thickened and flavors have melded. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a gentle simmer.

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