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Coney Island Chili Dogs

Coney Island Chili Dogs

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Coney Island Chili Dogs are a classic American street food featuring juicy hot dogs smothered in savory, mildly spicy chili, topped with melted sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for casual dinners, cookouts, or game-day snacks, this recipe delivers authentic boardwalk flavors with simple ingredients and easy preparation.

Ingredients

Scale

Hot Dogs and Buns

  • 6 high-quality beef or pork hot dogs
  • 6 soft, fresh hot dog buns

Chili

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup water or beef broth

Toppings

  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Optional: yellow mustard, diced raw onions, pickles, jalapeños, crispy bacon bits

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chili: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Stir in the finely chopped onions and minced garlic and cook until softened. Add chili powder, tomato paste, and a splash of water or broth to form a thick sauce. Simmer gently for about 10 minutes to blend and deepen the flavors.
  2. Cook the Hot Dogs: While the chili simmers, grill or pan-fry the hot dogs until they have a slight char and are heated through, enhancing juiciness and smoky flavor.
  3. Warm the Buns: Lightly toast the hot dog buns on the grill or in a toaster oven until warm and slightly crispy on the edges to prevent sogginess.
  4. Assemble the Chili Dogs: Place each hot dog in a bun, spoon a generous amount of warm chili over the top, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese so it melts from the heat. Add optional toppings like mustard or diced onions as desired.

Notes

  • Choose quality hot dogs for the best flavor and texture.
  • Simmer chili slowly to meld flavors and intensify taste.
  • Don’t overload buns with chili to avoid sogginess.
  • Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for better melting.
  • Lightly toast buns to add texture and hold toppings well.

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