First off, a huge thank you to you for being here. Honestly, every time someone stops by to read, try a recipe, or just chat about food—I’m beyond grateful. And today’s recipe is close to the heart. It comes straight from the heart of Appalachia, thanks to a husband from Southern West Virginia and a wife who mastered this incredible hot dog chili sauce that’s become a forever favorite in their home… and now, hopefully, yours too!
This is not your average chili. This is rich, savory, perfectly spiced hot dog chili sauce—meaty, saucy, and silky smooth. Simmered low and slow until all those spices meld together in a mouthwatering blend that’s just everything on a classic American hot dog.
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What Is Southern WV Hot Dog Chili Sauce?
Think of this chili as the ultimate upgrade to your backyard hot dog bar. It’s not chunky or bean-filled like traditional chili; it’s thinner, deeply seasoned, and designed to smother your hot dog like a flavorful blanket of meaty goodness. This recipe simmers all the best flavors of Southern West Virginia into one pan—and I promise, once you try it, you’ll never look back.
Why You’ll Love This Hot Dog Chili
- Authentic Flavor – This is how they do it in the hollers of Southern WV—no frills, just flavor.
- Slow-simmered Goodness – The low and slow simmer brings out the depth of flavor you just can’t rush.
- Easy Pantry Ingredients – All staples you likely already have.
- Versatile – Great on hot dogs, yes, but don’t stop there—burgers, fries, nachos, even baked potatoes benefit from a spoonful.
What Does It Taste Like?
Rich, tangy, and slightly sweet with a warm, smoky kick. The spices build layers, the ketchup and brown sugar bring that smooth sweet-and-savory balance, and the Worcestershire sauce adds an umami depth that makes this next-level. It’s everything you want a chili sauce to be: comforting, craveable, and absolutely unforgettable.
Benefits of Making This Recipe
- Great for feeding a crowd (hello tailgates and cookouts!)
- Freezer-friendly for make-ahead convenience
- Gluten-free and dairy-free
- Adds a nostalgic, regional flair to your hot dog game
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 Tbsp dried minced onion
- 1 Tbsp garlic powder
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional but encouraged!)
- 2–3 cups water (enough to cover meat)
- 1 cup ketchup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
Tools You’ll Need
- Large nonstick skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or heatproof silicone spatula
- Measuring spoons & cup
- Ladle for serving
Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce
Equipment
- Large nonstick skillet or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring spoons & cup
- Ladle
- Potato masher Optional, for texture
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp dried minced onion
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2–3 cups water (enough to cover meat)
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet or Dutch oven if desired. Do not drain the fat—it adds flavor and smoothness.
- Add chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, minced onion, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
- Pour in 2–3 cups of water—just enough to cover the meat. Bring to a simmer over medium-low heat.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 1–2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Use a potato masher halfway through for smoother texture.
- Add ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer uncovered for another 30–45 minutes until thick and glossy.
- Serve over hot dogs with mustard and slaw, or use it on fries, nachos, or burgers. Refrigerate or freeze leftovers.
Notes
Nutrition
Ingredient Swaps & Additions
- Ground turkey or venison works if you’re skipping beef.
- Swap dried minced onion with ½ a finely chopped fresh onion.
- Want it hotter? Add chipotle powder or extra red pepper flakes.
- For a smoky twist, a splash of liquid smoke goes a long way.
How to Make Southern WV Hot Dog Chili Sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef (Optional)
Some folks skip this to keep the chili smoother, but browning gives depth. If you do brown it, don’t drain the fat—it adds flavor. - Add Seasonings & Water
Stir in chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, minced onion, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Pour in just enough water (2–3 cups) to cover the meat. - Simmer Low & Slow
Bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook on low for 1 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The mixture should reduce and thicken slightly. - Add Final Flavor Boost
Stir in ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer uncovered for another 30–45 minutes until thick, glossy, and rich. - Serve
Spoon generously over hot dogs on soft steamed buns. Top with mustard and slaw, the true WV way!
What to Serve With This Chili Sauce
- Classic Hot Dogs – Mustard and creamy slaw are a must in WV!
- French Fries or Tater Tots – Chili cheese fries, anyone?
- Cheeseburgers – Add a dollop under the cheese.
- Nachos – Perfect game day upgrade.
- Mac & Cheese – Pour it right on top for a decadent twist.
Tips for Perfect Chili Every Time
- Low and slow wins – Don’t rush the simmer. The longer it cooks, the better it tastes.
- Use a potato masher halfway through to break up meat for a smoother texture.
- Taste and tweak – Want it sweeter? Add a touch more sugar. Want more zip? A dash of hot sauce helps!
Storage Instructions
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Cool completely and freeze in portioned bags or containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Gently reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors marry.
Does this have beans?
Nope! WV hot dog chili sauce is always beanless. Save those for the bowl chili.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely—just use a larger pot and extend the cooking time slightly.
Is this the same as Cincinnati chili?
No, it’s smoother and meatier, without the cinnamon or clove notes of Cincinnati chili.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something about a regional recipe passed down through families that makes it feel special—and this Southern West Virginia hot dog chili sauce is special. It’s a dish that tastes like summer days, Friday night football, and backyard cookouts. It’s simple, comforting, and endlessly customizable.
So the next time you want to turn your hot dogs from “meh” to mouthwatering, you know what to do.
Love This Recipe? Try These Too!
- Southern Peach Cobbler
- Appalachian Buttermilk Biscuits
- Slow Cooker BBQ Pulled Pork
- Peach Bourbon Glazed Ribs
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Nutritional Information (Per 2 Tbsp serving, approx.)
- Calories: 85
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 5g
- Carbs: 7g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 210mg
(Nutritional info is an estimate and will vary based on ingredients used.)
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