If you love jazzing up your burgers and hotdogs with a rich, flavorful topping, this Best Homemade Chili for Burgers and Hotdogs Recipe is going to be your new secret weapon. It’s a perfectly balanced chili that’s hearty without being too heavy, tangy with the mustard and vinegar, and packed with just the right amount of spice and sweetness. Whether you’re hosting a casual cookout or craving a cozy meal at home, this chili turns everyday hotdogs and burgers into unforgettable treats that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a punch in terms of flavor, texture, and color. Each item plays a crucial role, from creating the tangy base to adding that signature chili spice that complements beef so well.
- 1 lb. ground beef: The hearty foundation that brings rich, meaty goodness to this chili.
- 1 tablespoon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth that brightens the overall flavor.
- 1 tablespoon vinegar: Enhances the tanginess while balancing the sweetness of other ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Brings mild heat and a hint of sharpness to round out the taste.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Contributes an umami boost and complexity to the sauce.
- 4 tablespoons ketchup: Sweetness and a smooth texture that melds beautifully with the tomato base.
- 1 can (10 3/4 oz.) tomato soup: Creates a creamy, slightly sweet foundation that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 can of water (use the empty tomato soup can): Helps achieve the perfect consistency without diluting the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder: The star spice that delivers warmth and the classic chili flavor.
- Sugar to taste: Just a touch to balance acidity and round out the profile.
How to Make Best Homemade Chili for Burgers and Hotdogs Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Start by gathering your ground beef and all the sauce ingredients in a large pot. Make sure to break up the beef into small pieces as you mix everything together so the chili cooks evenly and every bite is flavorful.
Step 2: Bring to a Boil
Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors marry early on and prevents any sticking or burning at the bottom of the pot.
Step 3: Let it Simmer
Once boiling, lower the heat and cover the pot. Let the chili simmer slowly for one hour, stirring every so often. This slow cooking is what thickens the chili and lets the spices and tangy elements really develop.
Step 4: Check Consistency and Flavor
After simmering, your chili should be thick, rich, and bursting with flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, maybe a pinch more sugar or salt depending on your preference.
Step 5: Ready to Serve
Your Best Homemade Chili for Burgers and Hotdogs Recipe is now ready to be ladled generously onto your favorite burgers or hotdogs for an instantly elevated meal.
How to Serve Best Homemade Chili for Burgers and Hotdogs Recipe
Garnishes
When it comes to garnishing your chili-topped burgers or hotdogs, keep it simple but delicious. Shredded cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of diced onions, or a dollop of sour cream all add great texture and flavor contrasts that make each bite even more enjoyable.
Side Dishes
Pair your chili-covered creations with classic sides like crispy fries, onion rings, or even a fresh coleslaw. These sides complement the hearty, tangy chili and bring balance to the meal with crunch and brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get creative, try using the chili as a topping for loaded fries or nachos, or even spooning it over a baked potato for an easy and satisfying dinner. The possibilities with this versatile Best Homemade Chili for Burgers and Hotdogs Recipe are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover chili in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. It keeps very well and actually tastes even better after the flavors have had more time to meld overnight.
Freezing
This chili freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the chili gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can add a splash of water if it has thickened too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use different ground meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! While the Best Homemade Chili for Burgers and Hotdogs Recipe calls for ground beef, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just keep an eye on cooking times as leaner meats may cook faster.
Is this chili recipe spicy?
This chili has a mild to moderate heat level thanks to the chili powder and black pepper. You can always add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños if you prefer a spicier kick.
Can I prepare this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. It’s a hands-off way to get that great flavor without needing to supervise the pot.
What’s the best way to serve chili on burgers or hotdogs?
Make sure to warm your hamburger buns or hotdog buns first. Then spoon a generous amount of chili on top, and add cheese or onions if you like. Serve immediately for the best experience.
Can this chili be made vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of the Best Homemade Chili for Burgers and Hotdogs Recipe, swap the ground beef with cooked lentils or a meat alternative. Adjust cooking time accordingly as plant-based proteins often need less simmering.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful topping that enhances your burgers and hotdogs like nothing else, this Best Homemade Chili for Burgers and Hotdogs Recipe is a must-try. It’s simple to make, packed with great taste, and sure to become a staple at your table. So fire up that stove, mix up a batch, and get ready to impress everyone with your cooking skills!
Print
Best Homemade Chili for Burgers and Hotdogs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Best Homemade Chili recipe is a flavorful and hearty topping perfect for burgers and hotdogs. Combining ground beef with a tangy tomato-based sauce enhanced by mustard, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and chili powder, it simmers slowly to create a thick, rich chili that enhances any meal.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb. ground beef
Sauce and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 4 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 can (10 3/4 oz.) tomato soup
- 1 can of water (use the empty tomato soup can)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- Sugar to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, mix all ingredients thoroughly. Break up the ground beef evenly to ensure it is well incorporated with the sauce components.
- Bring to Boil: Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking to the bottom.
- Simmer: After boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the chili simmer gently for 1 hour, stirring occasionally to promote even cooking and prevent burning.
- Thicken and Meld: After an hour, the chili will thicken and the flavors will have blended beautifully.
- Serve: Serve the chili hot as a delicious topping over burgers, hotdogs, or fries. Store leftovers in airtight containers for later enjoyment.
Notes
- Adjust sugar to taste depending on your preference for sweetness.
- Use cans from the tomato soup to measure the water for easy cleanup and precise amounts.
- Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent the chili from sticking or burning.
- This chili works well as a versatile topping for various dishes beyond just burgers and hotdogs.
