Slow Cooker Hot Dog Chili Sauce: The Ultimate Comfort Topping

There’s something magical about a rich, savory chili sauce smothered over a juicy hot dog—its deep, meaty aroma filling the kitchen, the way it clings to every bite with just the right amount of spice. This Slow Cooker Hot Dog Chili Sauce is a recipe I hold close to my heart, born from weekend cookouts and a desperate attempt to impress my chili-snob uncle. After one bite, he went back for seconds (and thirds), declaring it the best he’d ever had. Now, it’s a staple in my home, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Hot Dog Chili Sauce

• Effortless & hands-off – Let the slow cooker do the work while you relax.

• Deep, layered flavors – A perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and just a touch of sweetness.

• Versatile – Great on hot dogs, burgers, fries, nachos, or even baked potatoes.

• Freezer-friendly – Make a big batch and stash it for future cravings.

• Crowd-pleaser – Wins over even the pickiest eaters (kids included!).

The Unexpected Fan

My niece, a notorious “no-sauce-ever” kid, surprised us all when she slathered this chili on her hot dog—and then asked for extra. Now, she requests it every time she visits. If that’s not a stamp of approval, I don’t know what is!

What Makes It Special

• Lean ground beef – Hearty but not greasy.

• Beef broth & Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami depth.

• Tomato paste & ketchup – Gives a rich, tangy-sweet base.

• Chili powder & paprika – Smoky warmth without overwhelming heat.

• Mustard & garlic – A subtle sharpness that keeps every bite interesting.

Making It Happen

Start by sautéing onions in olive oil until they’re soft and golden, then toss in the garlic—just until it’s fragrant. Add the ground beef and water, breaking it into tiny crumbles for that perfect chili texture. Once browned, drain any excess liquid (this keeps the sauce from being too oily).

Transfer everything to the slow cooker and stir in the remaining ingredients—tomato paste, ketchup, beef broth, mustard, Worcestershire, and all those beautiful spices. Let it simmer on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld into a thick, luscious sauce.

You Must Know

✔ Use lean beef (90/10) to avoid greasiness.
✔ Break the meat finely for the best texture.
✔ Taste and adjust—add more chili powder for heat or sugar for sweetness.
✔ For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered the last 30 minutes.
✔ Freezes beautifully—portion it for easy future meals!

Serving Ideas

• Classic chili dogs – Top with shredded cheese, diced onions, and jalapeños.

• Loaded fries or nachos – Drizzle over crispy fries with melted cheese.

• Baked potatoes – A hearty, comforting twist.

• Pair with an ice-cold lager, root beer, or sweet tea.

Make It Different

• Turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter version.

• Spicier kick – Add cayenne or diced chipotles in adobo.

• Smoky twist – A dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika.

• Vegetarian-friendly – Swap beef for lentils and use veggie broth.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for 4-5 days.

• Freezer: Keeps well for up to 3 months—thaw overnight before reheating.

• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

Chili Success Tips

• Low and slow is key for the best flavor.

• Don’t skip draining the beef—it prevents a greasy sauce.

• Double the batch—you’ll thank yourself later!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this on the stovetop?
Absolutely! After browning the beef, add all ingredients and simmer on low for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

2. Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes! Freeze in portions for easy use later.

3. Can I use ground turkey instead?
Definitely—just add a little extra seasoning for depth.

4. How do I make it thicker?
Simmer uncovered at the end or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water).

5. What’s the best way to serve leftovers?
Try it on eggs, mac and cheese, or even as a sloppy joe filling!

Slow Cooker Hot Dog Chili Sauce

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 10 mins
Category: Sauce, Condiment
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Yield: About 4 cups

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 cup onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 pound lean ground beef

• 1 cup water

• 3 tablespoons tomato paste

• ½ cup ketchup

• 1 ½ cups beef broth

• 1 tablespoon mustard

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 ½ tablespoons chili powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 2 teaspoons paprika

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (optional)

• Toppings: shredded cheese, diced onions, jalapeños

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sauté onions for 2-3 minutes, then add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Add ground beef and water, breaking meat into fine crumbles. Cook until browned, then drain excess liquid.

3. Transfer beef to a slow cooker. Stir in tomato paste, ketchup, broth, mustard, Worcestershire, and all spices.

4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.

5. Serve over hot dogs, fries, or baked potatoes with your favorite toppings!

Notes

• Use lean beef for less grease.

• Freeze extras for quick meals later.

• Stovetop option: Simmer all ingredients for 1 hour on low.

Tools You’ll Need

• Slow cooker

• Skillet

• Wooden spoon

Allergy Info

Contains: Beef, gluten (Worcestershire sauce—check label for GF version).

Nutrition (per ¼ cup)

Calories: 85 | Fat: 5g | Carbs: 4g | Protein: 6g

This Slow Cooker Hot Dog Chili Sauce is the ultimate game-changer for cookouts, weeknight dinners, or anytime you crave that comforting, meaty goodness. Give it a try—it might just become your new secret weapon! 🎉