Chili Dogs: The Ultimate Upgrade

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Chili Dogs: The Ultimate Upgrade

Author: Jennifer Cartier

Prep time: 15 MinCook time: 30 MinTotal time: 45 Min

Chili Dogs—a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and totally customizable. Whether you like your chili dogs with extra cheese, onions, or a little heat, we’ve got you covered.

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Ingredients

For the Chilli

• 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed (optional for extra texture)
• 2 tablespoons chilli powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Dogs

• 6-8 hot dogs (your favourite brand or homemade if you’re feeling ambitious)
• Soft hot dog buns (the fluffier, the better)

Instructions

1. Make the chilli: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once it’s browned, add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
2. Season the chilli: Stir in the chilli powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the spices cook for about a minute to bring out their full flavour.
3. Add the liquids: Pour in the tomato sauce and kidney beans (if using). Stir everything together and let it simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes, or until it thickens up and the flavours meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Grill the hot dogs: While the chilli simmers, grill your hot dogs over medium heat until they’re nice and charred, or cook them however you prefer (pan-frying, boiling—no judgment here!).
5. Assemble the chilli dogs: Once your dogs are cooked, load them into the buns, then top with a generous scoop of your homemade chilli. Now, it’s time to go wild with toppings! Pile on your favourite toppings, from shredded cheese and crispy bacon to jalapeños and a dollop of sour cream.
6. Serve & enjoy: Dig in and enjoy the messiest, most delicious chilli dogs you’ve ever had. Pair them with a cold drink and maybe a side of crispy fries, and you’re in business.

Notes

Toppings: These are where you can get wild! Go beyond the basics with:

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Sliced jalapeños (for heat!)
• Chopped Dill pickles
• Chopped green onions
• Crispy bacon bits
• Sour cream
• Pickled red onions
• Chopped tomatoes
• Fresh cilantro
• Avocado slices
• Hot sauce (to make it extra spicy)

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