Classic Chili Dog Sauce (Authentic & Rich)

 

This Classic Chili Dog Sauce is a thick, flavorful, old-school American topping made especially for hot dogs. Unlike regular chili, this sauce is smoother, meatier, and perfectly spiced so it coats the hot dog without overpowering it. It’s the kind of chili you find in diners, ballparks, and classic street food spots.

 Ingredients (Serves 6–8 Hot Dogs)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely minced
• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1½ tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 450 g (1 lb) ground beef (80/20 fat ratio works best)
• 1 cup beef broth (or water)
• 225 g (8 oz) tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon celery seed (optional, but traditional)

 Instructions (Step by Step)

1. Heat a large saucepan or skillet over medium heat and add the oil.
2. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring often, until soft and translucent.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant (do not burn).
4. Stir in salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Toast the spices for 1 minute to release flavor.
5. Add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until fully browned and no pink remains.
6. Pour in the beef broth and stir well, scraping the bottom of the pan.
7. Add the tomato paste and mix until fully incorporated.
8. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Add sugar, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and celery seed. Stir and simmer uncovered for 10 more minutes until thick.
10. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

The final texture should be thick, smooth, and spoonable, not soupy.

 How to Serve

• Spoon generously over grilled or steamed hot dogs
• Top with diced onions, shredded cheddar cheese, or yellow mustard
• Serve in soft hot dog buns for the classic experience

 Tips for the Best Chili Dog Sauce

• Finely mince onions so the sauce stays smooth
• Use tomato paste instead of crushed tomatoes for authentic texture
• Simmer longer for deeper flavor
• This sauce is not meant to be chunky like regular chili

 Storage

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freeze for up to 2 months
• Reheat slowly on low heat with a splash of water or broth