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Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Makes enough for about 8–10 hot dogs
  • Category: Condiment, Sauce
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce is a thick, beefy, no-bean chili loaded with bold spices and perfect for topping classic hot dogs. A true Appalachian staple that brings regional flavor to every bite!


Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1 teaspoon cumin

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 tablespoon dried minced onion

  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder

  • 1/2 cup water (more as needed for desired consistency)

  • Optional: 1 tablespoon tomato paste or ketchup for a slight sweetness


Instructions

  • In a skillet or saucepan, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break it up as finely as possible while cooking.

  • Once cooked through, drain any excess fat.

  • Add the chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, minced onion, and garlic powder to the skillet. Stir well to coat the beef.

  • Pour in ½ cup water (and tomato paste or ketchup, if using) and simmer on low for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavors are well developed.

  • Adjust consistency with more water if needed. Serve warm over hot dogs.


Notes

  • For the authentic texture, mash the beef with a potato masher or pulse briefly in a food processor after browning.

  • Letting it simmer longer deepens the flavor even more.

  • Classic WV-style serving: hot dog bun + wiener + mustard + chili sauce + creamy coleslaw