Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something warm, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Crockpot Hot Dog Chili recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It's a delicious twist on a classic, perfect for a cozy night in or a casual get-together. This healthy meal is packed with flavor and requires minimal effort, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound hot dogs, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, chopped cilantro
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In your slow cooker, combine the sliced hot dogs, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
- Add the Liquids: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes and green chilies, and beef broth. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
- Season: Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat all the ingredients.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded beautifully.
- Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onions, or fresh cilantro.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Hot Dog Chili:
- Brown the Onions and Garlic (Optional): For a deeper, richer flavor, sauté the onions and garlic in a little olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker. This adds a lovely caramelized touch.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For extra heat, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, corn, or carrots, to boost the nutritional value and add more texture.
- Make it a Heartier Meal: Include 1 cup of cooked brown rice or quinoa during the last hour of cooking for a more filling meal.
Variations:
- Spicy Chorizo Chili: Replace the hot dogs with 1 pound of chorizo sausage, removed from its casing and crumbled.
- Vegetarian Chili: Omit the hot dogs and add 1 cup of cooked lentils or black beans for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Beef Chili: Add 1 pound of ground beef to the slow cooker along with the onions and garlic, browning it before adding the other ingredients.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. The nutritional information will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size. It is best to use a nutritional calculator for precise values, but a general estimate is around 300-350 calories, 15-20g of protein, and 10-15g of fat per serving. This makes it a relatively healthy and satisfying meal choice. Remember, this is an estimate and may vary.
This Crockpot Hot Dog Chili is a perfect example of delicious dishes that don't require hours in the kitchen. It's a fantastic recipe for homemade cooking that's easy enough for beginners yet flavorful enough to impress experienced cooks. Enjoy!