Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce – The Ultimate Classic
When you think of comfort food, nothing hits quite like a hot dog topped with rich, flavorful West Virginia hot dog chili sauce. Unlike Tex-Mex chili, this sauce is finely seasoned, smooth, and designed specifically to crown your hot dog with bold Southern flavor without overpowering it.
Perfect for backyard cookouts, game day, or a quick weeknight dinner, this chili recipe is budget-friendly, freezer-friendly, and guaranteed to be a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Chili Sauce
- Authentic Southern Flavor – A true Appalachian-style recipe, not just “chili on a hot dog.”
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with pantry staples.
- Customizable Heat – Mild enough for kids, but easily spiced up with cayenne or hot sauce.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch and freeze for future hot dog nights.
- Versatile – Use it on burgers, fries, nachos, or baked potatoes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp granulated garlic (or garlic powder)
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- ½ cup water
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp yellow mustard
Equipment
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Measuring spoons
- Airtight container (for storing leftovers)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef – In a large skillet over medium-high heat, crumble and cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Bloom the Spices – Lower heat to medium. Stir in chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne (if using). Cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Build the Sauce – Add water, tomato sauce, Worcestershire, and mustard. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer to Perfection – Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens. Add more water if you prefer a thinner sauce.
- Serve & Enjoy – Spoon over hot dogs, top with diced onions, shredded cheese, or coleslaw for the classic West Virginia chili dog experience.
Pro Tips
- Keep It Fine: For the most authentic texture, break up the ground beef into very small crumbles.
- Make It Ahead: Tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld.
- Double Batch: Freeze half for a future easy weeknight dinner idea.
Serving Ideas
- Classic chili dogs with onions, mustard, and slaw
- Chili cheese fries with extra shredded cheddar
- On top of baked potatoes or tater tots
- As a dip with tortilla chips
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove.
FAQ
Q: Is this the same as regular chili?
No. West Virginia hot dog chili sauce is thinner, smoother, and more of a topping than a stand-alone stew.
Q: Can I make it spicier?
Absolutely. Add extra cayenne, hot sauce, or even a diced jalapeño.
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Yes! Both work well for a leaner version without sacrificing flavor.
Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in spices and cook 1–2 minutes.
- Add water, tomato sauce, Worcestershire, and mustard. Stir well.
- Simmer on low for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Serve hot over grilled hot dogs with onions, cheese, or slaw.
Notes