Ultimate Loaded Chili-Topped Hot Dogs

Like any “loaded” situation, this hot dog is all about constructing your plate. Split-top buns allow you to hollow out the sides a bit, fitting extra toppings into each bite. A touch of sweetness in the chili balances out the salt from Corn Nuts and the hot dog, while the sharp bite of pickled jalapeños creates balance. Radishes and sour cream offer a welcome hit of freshness. The chili can easily be made ahead of time for quick assembly the day of.

Ultimate Loaded Chili-Topped Hot Dogs
Photo: Jen Causey
Active Time:
40 mins
Total Time:
50 mins
Yield:
8
Cook Mode (Keep screen awake)

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup)

  • 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped (about 1 tablespoon)

  • 1 pound 80/20 lean ground beef

  • 2 tablespoon tomato paste

  • 2 tablespoon chili powder

  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

  • 1 cup amber ale beer (such as Fat Tire)

  • 2 tablespoons light brown sugar

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 3/4 cup tomato sauce

  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

  • 8 (5-inch) beef hot dogs

  • Buttery Brioche Hot Dog Buns, top split

  • Finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, thinly sliced scallions, thinly sliced radishes, crushed toasted corn snacks (such as Corn Nuts), and fresh or pickled jalapeño slices, for serving

Directions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add onion; cook, stirring often, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic; cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add ground beef, and cook, stirring to crumble, until lightly browned, about 8 minutes. Push beef mixture to one side of skillet. Add tomato paste, chili powder, salt, and cayenne to empty side of skillet, and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant and mixture has darkened, 1 to 2 minutes.

  2. Stir in beer, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce, incorporating beef. Return to a simmer over medium-high, and cook, stirring occasionally, until liquid has almost completely evaporated, 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in tomato sauce, and bring mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, and simmer, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld and chili has thickened slightly, 15 to 20 minutes. (If chili becomes too thick, add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, to loosen.) Remove from heat, and stir in vinegar. Cover to keep warm.

  3. Preheat a grill to medium-high (400°F to 450°F), or heat a grill pan over medium-high. Grill hot dogs on oiled grates, uncovered, turning occasionally, until heated through and lightly charred, about 6 minutes. Place hot dogs in buns, and top each with about 1/4 cup chili. Reserve remaining chili for another use. Serve with desired toppings.

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