Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce is the ideal condiment for anyone who loves the combination of a good hot dog and a zesty topping. The chili sauce brings a unique depth of flavor that you won’t find in typical store-bought condiments. Its smooth texture and savory taste enhance the flavor of your hot dog, transforming a basic meal into something truly special. Whether you’re having a casual cookout or a family dinner, this chili sauce is sure to impress your guests and add excitement to your meal.

West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1/2 cup water
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the tomato sauce, water, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard.
Add the garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from the heat.
Serve the chili sauce generously over hot dogs and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6 hot dogs
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian-friendly chili sauce.
Sweet Version: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar or honey for a touch of sweetness to balance out the tangy vinegar.
Add Beans: For a heartier version, you can stir in some kidney beans or black beans into the sauce while it simmers.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover chili sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the chili sauce in a saucepan over low heat, adding a bit of water if it’s too thick.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a different flavor or dietary preference.

2. Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! This chili sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for a few days. In fact, it tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld together.

3. How do I make the sauce spicier?

To make it spicier, you can add more cayenne pepper, chili powder, or fresh chopped jalapeños.

4. Can I freeze this chili sauce?

Yes, this chili sauce freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

5. What can I serve this chili sauce with besides hot dogs?

This chili sauce is great on burgers, fries, nachos, or even as a topping for baked potatoes.

6. Can I use store-bought chili instead of making my own?

While homemade chili sauce has a unique flavor, you can use store-bought chili as a shortcut if you’re short on time.

7. Is this chili sauce sweet or savory?

This chili sauce has a savory and tangy flavor profile with a hint of sweetness from the mustard and Worcestershire sauce.

8. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer for a longer period of time or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to the sauce.

9. Can I adjust the spices in the sauce?

Yes, feel free to tweak the spices to your liking. Add more garlic powder, cumin, or paprika to adjust the flavor to suit your taste.

10. Is this chili sauce gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and ensure that any other seasonings used are gluten-free, this chili sauce can be made gluten-free.

Conclusion

West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce is a delicious and flavorful topping that transforms a regular hot dog into a standout meal. With its rich tomato base, savory spices, and versatile options, this sauce is sure to become a favorite at your next cookout or dinner. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or make a few tweaks to suit your taste, this chili sauce is guaranteed to add a bold flavor to your hot dog experience.