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Copycat Dodger Dog Recipe Easy Homemade Chili Cheese Hot Dogs

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A flavorful copycat Dodger Dog with rich chili and melted cheese that brings the classic ballpark experience to your home. Quick and easy to make, perfect for game day or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 beef hot dogs (all-beef recommended, e.g., Nathan’s Famous)
  • 4 soft, split-top hot dog buns
  • 1/2 pound (225g) lean ground beef (85% lean)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240ml) plain tomato sauce or canned tomato puree
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) low sodium beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar or cheddar/Monterey Jack blend
  • Optional toppings: diced onions, jalapeños, mustard, pickles

Instructions

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  2. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
  3. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the meat evenly.
  4. Pour in tomato sauce, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chili thickens but remains saucy.
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) or use a toaster oven. Lightly toast hot dog buns for 3-5 minutes until warm and slightly crisp.
  6. In a separate pan or grill, warm hot dogs over medium heat until heated through and slightly browned, about 5 minutes.
  7. Place each hot dog into a toasted bun. Spoon generous amounts of chili over the dogs, then sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
  8. Cover the skillet or place assembled dogs under a broiler for 1-2 minutes until cheese melts and bubbles. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  9. Add optional toppings like diced onion, jalapeños, or mustard if desired. Serve immediately while hot and melty.

Notes

Toast buns to prevent sogginess. Let chili simmer uncovered to thicken and develop flavor. Use sharp cheddar or cheddar blend for best melting. Cover skillet or broil briefly to melt cheese without burning. Adjust chili powder for spice level. Chili can be made ahead and reheated.

Nutrition

Keywords: Dodger Dog, chili cheese hot dogs, copycat recipe, game day food, easy hot dogs, homemade chili, melted cheese hot dogs