Let’s face it, chili dogs are the ultimate comfort food, especially when you’re cheering on your favorite team. This crock pot recipe takes the hassle out of game day prep, letting you focus on the fun while your slow cooker does all the work.
Why This Recipe Works
- Effortless Cooking: The crock pot does the heavy lifting, making this recipe perfect for busy days.
- Flavor Fusion: Slow cooking allows the chili and hot dogs to meld into a mouthwatering masterpiece.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Easy to double or triple, this recipe ensures no one leaves hungry.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 package (8 count) hot dogs
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 8 hot dog buns
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Equipment Needed
- Crock pot (4-6 quart)
- Skillet
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula
Instructions
Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat. This step ensures your chili has the perfect texture and flavor base.
Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot
Transfer the browned beef to the crock pot. Add the chili beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. The spices will bloom as they cook, creating a rich and flavorful chili.
Add the Hot Dogs
Nestle the hot dogs into the chili mixture, ensuring they’re fully submerged. This allows them to soak up all the delicious flavors as they cook. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.
Prepare the Buns
About 10 minutes before serving, lightly toast the hot dog buns. This adds a nice crunch and prevents them from getting soggy when loaded with chili.
Serve and Enjoy
Place a hot dog in each bun, top with a generous helping of chili, and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Serve immediately while everything is hot and gooey.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño to the chili mixture. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-made chili instead of making it from scratch. To keep the buns from getting soggy, you can also serve the chili on the side for dipping. For a healthier twist, try using turkey hot dogs and lean ground turkey.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef and hot dogs with plant-based alternatives and use vegetarian chili beans.
- Spicy Kick: Add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the chili for those who like it hot.
- Cheese Lover’s Dream: Mix in some cream cheese with the chili for an extra creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chili mixture up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, just reheat in the crock pot and add the hot dogs.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this recipe freezes well. Store the chili and hot dogs separately in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with chili dogs?
Classic sides include coleslaw, potato chips, or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, try serving with baked beans or mac and cheese.
Summary
This chili dog crock pot recipe is a foolproof way to enjoy a classic comfort food with minimal effort. Perfect for game day or any casual gathering, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.