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Nothing says comfort food quite like a juicy hot dog smothered in a rich, flavorful chili. This zesty version combines smoky chipotle peppers, fresh seasonings, and a touch of sweetness—perfect for any casual gathering, family meal, or game-day spread.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, chopped (more if you love extra heat)
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Hot dogs and buns, warmed
- Your favorite toppings (shredded cheese, diced onions, cilantro, etc.)
Instructions
Begin by warming the olive oil in a medium pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the chili lean.
Next, stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing just until they begin to soften—about two to three minutes. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt, giving everything a good stir to let the spices bloom and become fragrant.
Toss in the chopped chipotle pepper, tomato sauce, and brown sugar. Reduce the heat, and let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, or until it thickens and all the flavors mingle. Give it a taste and adjust seasonings to suit your preference.
When you’re ready to serve, warm your hot dogs and buns, then generously spoon the chili over the top. Complete each chili dog with any toppings you love—like shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, or fresh cilantro.
This smoky, slightly sweet chili is a dream for hot dog lovers who crave a bold punch of flavor. It’s easy to adapt for different tastes—use ground turkey or vegan alternatives, ramp up the heat with extra chipotle, or swap brown sugar for a maple syrup twist. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, meal-prepping for busy nights, or just craving a little extra zest at dinnertime, these Tangy Chipotle Chili Dogs are sure to keep everyone happy.
