This rich, flavorful, and finely textured chili is perfect for topping hot dogs, burgers, or even fries! It’s slow-cooked to perfection, allowing all the ingredients to blend beautifully.

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📝 Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

✔ 1 pound lean ground beef (90/10) (leaner beef prevents excess grease!)
✔ ⅓ cup water (helps break down the beef into fine crumbles!)
✔ 5 ounces tomato sauce (adds the perfect tangy base!)
✔ ½ cup ketchup (for a touch of sweetness & richness!)
✔ 1 tablespoon yellow mustard (adds a classic chili dog tang!)
✔ 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for depth & umami!)
✔ 2 teaspoons chili powder (for warmth & spice!)
✔ ½ teaspoon salt (to enhance all the flavors!)
✔ ½ teaspoon black pepper (adds a little kick!)
✔ ½ teaspoon sugar (balances the acidity!)
✔ ½ teaspoon onion powder (adds a hint of savory depth!)

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👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

📌 Heat a medium skillet over medium heat.
📌 Add ground beef and water to the skillet.
📌 Cook the beef while breaking it up into very fine crumbles.
📌 Drain any excess grease or liquid for a smooth, non-greasy chili.

👉 Pro Tip: Using water while cooking helps break the beef down into a super fine texture, perfect for hot dog chili!

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Step 2: Transfer to the Slow Cooker

📌 Place the drained, finely crumbled beef into the slow cooker insert.
📌 Add tomato sauce and ketchup, stirring to combine.
📌 Mix in yellow mustard and Worcestershire sauce.

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Step 3: Season the Chili

📌 Sprinkle in chili powder, salt, black pepper, sugar, and onion powder.
📌 Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.

👉 Pro Tip: The longer the chili simmers, the deeper the flavor—so don’t rush it!

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Step 4: Slow Cook the Chili

📌 Cover the slow cooker and set to LOW.
📌 Cook for 2 to 2 ½ hours, allowing flavors to meld.
📌 Stir occasionally if possible.
📌 Check the consistency and thin with water if needed before serving.

👉 Pro Tip: If you prefer thicker chili, leave the lid slightly ajar during the last 30 minutes of cooking!

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Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

✔ Keep the chili warm in the slow cooker for serving.
✔ Spoon over hot dogs in buns for the ultimate chili dog experience!
✔ Top with shredded cheddar cheese, diced onions, or jalapeños for extra flavor!
✔ Try it over burgers, fries, or baked potatoes for a delicious twist.

🔥 Make it spicy! Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce!

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⏳ Quick Recipe Recap

📌 Prep Time: 10 minutes
📌 Cook Time: 2-2½ hours
📌 Total Time: About 2½ hours
📌 Servings: 6-8 hot dogs worth of chili

🔥 Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
✅ Perfectly smooth & finely crumbled texture
✅ Rich, tangy, and just the right amount of spice
✅ Easy to make & stays warm in the slow cooker
✅ Great for hot dogs, burgers, fries, & more!

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🔥 Pro Tips & Variations

✔ For Extra Thickness:

• Add 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water in the last 30 minutes.

✔ For More Smokiness:

• Add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika.

✔ For a Sweeter Flavor:

• Use ¼ cup BBQ sauce instead of ketchup.

✔ For a Spicier Kick:

• Mix in ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

✔ Make It Ahead & Store It!

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in small portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm on low heat in a saucepan, adding a splash of water if needed.

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🌭 Perfect Hot Dog Pairings

🔥 Classic Chili Cheese Dogs → Top with cheddar & diced onions
🔥 Spicy Jalapeño Dogs → Add sliced pickled jalapeños
🔥 Southern-Style Slaw Dogs → Add coleslaw for a cool contrast
🔥 BBQ Chili Dogs → Drizzle with BBQ sauce & crispy fried onions

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📢 Try this recipe & let me know how it turns out! 🌭🔥

Tag your dish with #SlowCookerChiliDogs & share your favorite toppings!

Enjoy! 🍽️