Hot Dog Chili Recipe (Classic & Homemade)

Homemade Chili Sauce Just Like the Drive-In

If you grew up in the South or Midwest, you know that a backyard cookout just isn’t the same without a good, thick hot dog chili slathered on top of your dog—or even your burger. Some of my best summer memories involve picnic tables covered in paper plates, sticky fingers, and the smell of hot dogs sizzling on the grill, all topped off with a generous spoonful of this old-fashioned chili sauce.

Everyone has a “secret” recipe for hot dog chili—some add beans (not me!), some go heavy on the sugar, and some folks swear by a dash of vinegar for that perfect tang. This recipe comes from my family’s well-worn recipe box. It’s simple, savory, and freezes beautifully for busy weeknights or last-minute BBQs. My grandkids request it every time they visit, and honestly, no store-bought chili can compete.

Do you have a hot dog chili debate in your family—beans or no beans? Mustard or ketchup? Tell me your chili must-haves in the comments below! (I’m firmly Team No Beans!)

Why You’ll Love This Hot Dog Chili Recipe

Just Like the Old Drive-Ins: Thick, smooth, and never runny—stays put on your hot dog!
Make Ahead & Freeze: Whip up a double batch and stash some away for future cookouts or burger nights.
No Fancy Ingredients: Everything you need is probably already in your pantry.

Ingredients

1 lb. ground beef
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 tablespoon vinegar
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
4 tablespoons ketchup
1 (10¾ oz) can tomato soup
1 can water (just fill the empty soup can)
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons chili powder
Sugar, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:
In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, brown the ground beef. For the smoothest, drive-in style chili, break it up very fine as it cooks (a potato masher works wonders!).
Add Everything Else:
Add mustard, vinegar, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, tomato soup, water, salt, chili powder, and sugar to the beef. Mix well.
Bring to a Boil:
Increase heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring often so nothing sticks.
Simmer Low & Slow:
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour. Stir occasionally—chili should be thick, rich, and smooth. If it gets too thick, add a splash more water.
Taste & Adjust:
Taste and add more sugar or chili powder if you like. Everyone’s idea of “just right” is a little different!
Serve:
Spoon generously over hot dogs, hamburgers, or even baked potatoes.

Tips, Tricks, and Variations

Double or Triple: I always double this recipe and freeze portions for later. It reheats beautifully!
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free tomato soup if needed—Campbell’s is not GF.
Spicy Version: Add a dash of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce for heat-lovers.
Texture: For a finer texture, pulse browned beef in a food processor for a couple seconds before simmering.
For Hamburgers: Spoon a little on a grilled hamburger and top with diced onions and shredded cheese—so good!

What to Serve with Hot Dog Chili

Pair with Southern-Style Bacon Tomato Gravy or a side of Classic Hobo Dinners: Hamburger Patties and Veggies for a complete comfort meal!

Love comfort food? Serve this hot dog chili with my Homemade Dinner Rolls – Yeast Rolls Recipe or add it to Classic Hobo Dinners: Hamburger Patties and Veggies for a real retro meal.

Storage & Freezing

Store: Leftovers will keep in the fridge (airtight container) for up to 5 days.
Freeze: Spoon into small containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

FAQ

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A: Absolutely! The texture will be a little lighter, but all the flavors work well with other meats.

Q: How do I make my chili thicker?
A: Simmer uncovered for the last 10–15 minutes, or add less water if you prefer a thicker sauce.

Q: Is this chili spicy?
A: Not really—just flavorful. Add cayenne or extra chili powder if you want some heat.

Do you remember the first time you had chili on your hot dog at the ballpark or a family BBQ?