If you’re searching for the tastiest way to take your hot dog night from ordinary to unforgettable, this Crockpot Hot Dog Chili is it. Built on lean ground beef and bursting with bold flavor from pantry staples like ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce, this recipe is guaranteed to liven up your next barbecue or family dinner. Spend a few minutes of prep, then let your slow cooker meld those classic chili flavors together while you go about your day. Pile it on dogs, fries, or burgers—however you serve it, Crockpot Hot Dog Chili makes every bite sing!

Crockpot Hot Dog Chili Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how classic, familiar ingredients come together to create something you’ll crave. Each role is important—flavor, texture, or the right touch of sweetness—so don’t skip anything if you can help it!

Ground Beef (1 pound, preferably 90/10): Lean ground beef keeps the chili hearty, flavorful, and not too greasy.
Water (1/3 cup): This helps to finely crumble the beef as it browns and gives the chili a smooth, scoopable texture.
Tomato Sauce (5 ounces): Adds that essential chili richness and gives the sauce structure.
Ketchup (1/2 cup): A punch of sweetness and body that lifts the whole mixture.
Yellow Mustard (1 tablespoon): It brightens the chili with just enough tang—essential for that classic dog-house flavor.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tablespoon): Deepens the savoriness and adds a layer of umami.
Chili Powder (2 teaspoons): The not-so-secret ingredient that gives our Crockpot Hot Dog Chili its signature spice and warmth.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances and intensifies all those sweet and savory notes.
Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): For just the right touch of heat.
Sugar (1/2 teaspoon): Rounds out the acidity from the ketchup and tomato sauce.
Onion Powder or Minced Onion (1/2 teaspoon): Brings mellow onion flavor that blends in perfectly with every bite.

How to Make Crockpot Hot Dog Chili

Step 1: Brown the Beef with Care

Start by browning your ground beef in a medium skillet over medium heat, combining it with the water. Use a spoon or potato masher to break up the meat continuously as it cooks. The goal is super-fine crumbles that will soak up all that saucy flavor later—trust me, it’s worth the effort for the texture!

Step 2: Drain and Transfer

Once the beef is browned and there’s no more pink, drain off any extra grease or liquid. This keeps your chili rich without being heavy or oily. Now, scoop all that seasoned beef into your slow cooker for the next delicious phase.

Step 3: Add the Magic Ingredients

Pour in the tomato sauce, ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, salt, black pepper, sugar, and your choice of onion powder or minced onion. Give it a good stir until everything is beautifully combined—like a savory patchwork quilt just waiting to come alive!

Step 4: Slow Cook for Flavor

Cover your crockpot and set it on LOW for 2 to 2 1/2 hours. While it simmers away, the flavors mingle and the texture becomes spoon-perfect. All you have to do is occasionally give it a stir, and let the slow cooker work its magic.

Step 5: Serve It Your Way

Once your Crockpot Hot Dog Chili is done, it’s ready to pile onto hot dogs, drizzle over french fries, spoon onto burgers, or just enjoy straight out of the bowl. Every topping and every bite is both classic and customizable!

How to Serve Crockpot Hot Dog Chili

Garnishes

Dress up your Crockpot Hot Dog Chili with a finishing sprinkle of shredded cheddar, diced onions, fresh jalapenos, sliced green onions, or an extra zigzag of yellow mustard. Each adds its own pop of color and flavor—plus they make your meal look irresistibly inviting!

Side Dishes

This chili plays well with salty, crispy fries, a side of coleslaw, tangy pickles, potato chips, or even a crisp summer salad. The rich chili flavor is great for balancing with something crunchy or refreshing as a complement.

Creative Ways to Present

Why stop at hot dogs? Spoon big scoops onto a baked potato, layer it in a chili cheese dip, or use it as a craveable burger topping. For parties, try serving Crockpot Hot Dog Chili in a small slow cooker set to “warm” so everyone can help themselves at a toppings bar!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors somehow get even better the next day, and you can thin the chili with a splash of water or ketchup if it thickens up.

Freezing

This Crockpot Hot Dog Chili freezes beautifully. Let the chili cool, then pack it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving some space for expansion. It’ll keep its flavor and texture for up to three months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave in a covered dish. If the chili seems thick, a tablespoon or two of water will loosen it right up. Stir well and bring it just to a simmer—you’re ready to serve!

FAQs

Can I make Crockpot Hot Dog Chili ahead for a party?

Absolutely! Prepare the chili a day or two in advance and warm it in your crockpot right before guests arrive. It stays perfect on the warm setting, and everyone can help themselves.

Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken?

Yes, you can swap in ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a lighter version. The flavors will still shine, though beef has that classic hot dog chili taste. If using poultry, reduce the water to just 1/4 cup since it releases more moisture.

Is it spicy?

This Crockpot Hot Dog Chili is rich and savory with just a mild warmth from the chili powder. For extra heat, toss in a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapenos when cooking or as a garnish.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! Just double all the ingredients, and as long as your slow cooker is large enough, you’re set. You might want to stir once or twice more during cooking, but the results will be just as delicious.

What’s the best way to keep the chili warm during a party?

Keep your Crockpot Hot Dog Chili on the “warm” or lowest setting in your slow cooker, and give it an occasional stir. It will stay comfortably scoopable for hours, making it ideal for gatherings and cookouts!

Final Thoughts

If classic comfort food is your love language, give this Crockpot Hot Dog Chili a place in your next gathering or family night. It’s foolproof, utterly delicious, and guaranteed to elevate hot dogs, fries, or just about anything you’re craving. Go ahead—let your slow cooker handle the heavy lifting and enjoy the easiest, tastiest chili you’ve ever spooned over a bun!