This Southern West Virginia Hot Dog Chili Sauce is a beloved regional favorite, perfect for topping hot dogs, French fries, or even burgers. Known for its deep, savory flavor with a subtle spicy kick, this classic sauce is easy to make and packed with bold spices that enhance the natural richness of ground beef. Whether you're recreating an authentic West Virginia-style hot dog or simply looking for a versatile chili topping, this recipe is a must-try.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp kosher salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp dried minced onion

• 1 tbsp garlic powder

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Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart into small crumbles using a wooden spoon or spatula.
Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains (about 8–10 minutes). If needed, drain off excess grease, leaving just a little behind for moisture.

Step 2: Add the Spices

Lower the heat to a simmer. Sprinkle in the chili powder, paprika, cumin, kosher salt, black pepper, dried minced onion, and garlic powder.
Stir thoroughly to coat the beef evenly with the spices. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to allow the spices to toast slightly and deepen in flavor.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Add ½ cup of water to the skillet, or just enough to create a slightly saucy consistency. Stir well, then let the mixture simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors blend and the sauce thicken.
If it becomes too dry, simply add a splash of water to loosen it up.

Step 4: Adjust the Seasoning

Taste the chili sauce and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add an extra pinch of salt, pepper, or spices as desired.

Step 5: Serve

Generously spoon the chili sauce over hot dogs, fries, or hamburgers. For a truly authentic West Virginia experience, serve on a steamed bun with mustard, diced onions, and a scoop of coleslaw.

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Tips for Success

• Customize the Heat: Like it spicy? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes when adding the other spices.

• Perfect the Texture: For an extra fine consistency, use a potato masher to break the beef into even smaller bits after browning.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to refresh the sauce if needed.

• Freezer-Friendly: This chili sauce freezes exceptionally well. Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Southern West Virginia-style chili sauce is a bold, flavorful condiment that transforms any dish it touches. The spice blend creates a hearty, savory topping that clings beautifully to hot dogs and fries. Plus, it’s simple enough for a quick weeknight dinner and crowd-pleasing enough for game days or cookouts. If you're a fan of classic chili dogs or just crave rich, comforting flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Dig in and enjoy a taste of Appalachian tradition—one delicious bite at a time!

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