Description
Cheesy Chili Dogs
Ingredients
For the chili topping:
1/2 lb ground beef
1/2 cup diced onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1 tbsp chili powder
1/2 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
For the hot dogs:
4 hot dogs
4 hot dog buns
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Prepare the chili topping:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened.
Stir in the tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cook the hot dogs:
Grill or boil the hot dogs until fully cooked.
Assemble the chili dogs:
Place the hot dogs in the buns. Spoon the chili mixture generously over the hot dogs.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Melt the cheese:
Preheat your oven broiler. Place the chili dogs on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
Enjoy these cheesy chili dogs warm, garnished with extra diced onions or jalapeños for a spicy kick!
These hearty and cheesy chili dogs are a crowd-pleasing classic, perfect for game day or casual get-togethers.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect results. First, in a medium skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into fine crumbles. Drain the fat thoroughly. Add the onion and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and let the chili simmer for a full 10 minutes to blend the flavors. While the chili simmers, cook your hot dogs via your preferred method—grilling for char marks or boiling for a classic snap. Lightly toast the buns for added texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chili dogs immediately while hot and the cheese is melty. Classic garnishes include diced white onion, sliced jalapeños, or a drizzle of yellow mustard. For a heartier meal, pair with crispy french fries, onion rings, or a simple coleslaw. Offering a variety of hot sauces on the side allows guests to customize their spice level.
How-to Summary
To make Cheesy Chili Dogs: 1) Brown beef and drain fat. 2) Cook onions and garlic in the same skillet. 3) Add tomato sauce and seasonings to create a simple chili. 4) Simmer for 10 minutes. 5) Cook hot dogs and lightly toast buns. 6) Assemble dogs in buns, top with chili and shredded cheese. 7) Broil for 2-3 minutes to melt cheese. Serve warm with desired toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the chili ahead of time? Yes, the chili topping can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before assembling.
What’s a good substitute for ground beef? Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative work well. Adjust seasoning to taste.
How can I prevent the buns from getting soggy? Toasting the buns and ensuring your chili isn’t overly watery are key. Assemble just before serving and broiling.
Can I use a different cheese? Absolutely. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a pre-shredded Mexican blend are excellent alternatives.
What’s the best way to melt the cheese without a broiler? You can microwave the assembled chili dogs for 30-45 seconds, or use a toaster oven on a bake setting until the cheese melts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: 1) Not draining the beef fat, which can make the chili greasy. 2) Skipping the chili simmer time, which is crucial for flavor development. 3) Overloading the hot dog with too much chili, causing a messy eat. 4) Leaving the dogs under the broiler unattended, which can quickly burn the buns. 5) Using cold cheese straight from the fridge, which may not melt evenly.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Chili Dogs are the ultimate easy comfort food, combining savory homemade chili, juicy hot dogs, and melted cheese. With this enhanced guide, you’re equipped to avoid common errors and customize them to perfection. They are guaranteed to be a hit at any casual gathering, delivering maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Enjoy your delicious creation!