Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce

This Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce is a regional classic, perfect for topping hot dogs, fries, or even burgers. Known for its rich, savory flavor and slightly spicy kick, this sauce is easy to make and packed with spices that bring out the best in ground beef. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to recreate the authentic taste of West Virginia-style hot dogs.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon dried minced onion
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles with a wooden spoon or spatula.
2. Cook until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains (about 8–10 minutes). Drain any excess grease if needed, leaving just a small amount in the pan for moisture.

Step 2: Add the Spices

1. Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle in the chili powder, paprika, cumin, kosher salt, black pepper, dried minced onion, and garlic powder. Stir well to evenly coat the beef with the spices.
2. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the spices to toast slightly and deepen in flavor.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

1. Add ½ cup of water to the skillet (or enough to create a slightly saucy consistency). Stir well to combine and let the mixture simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. If the sauce becomes too dry, add a splash more water as needed.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning

1. Taste the chili sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add a pinch more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.

Step 5: Serve

1. Spoon the chili sauce generously over hot dogs, French fries, or hamburgers. For an authentic West Virginia touch, serve on a steamed bun with mustard, onions, and coleslaw.

Tips for Success

• Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes along with the other spices.
• Texture: For a finer texture, use a potato masher to break the ground beef into smaller pieces after browning.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Freezing: This chili sauce freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce is a flavorful, no-fuss condiment that elevates any dish it tops. The combination of spices creates a hearty, savory sauce that clings perfectly to hot dogs or fries, while the simplicity of the recipe makes it a go-to for busy weeknights or game-day gatherings. Whether you’re a fan of classic chili dogs or just love bold, zesty flavors, this sauce is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Dive into this regional favorite and enjoy every bite!