Michigan Chili Dog Sauce

This iconic Detroit-style sauce is less of a traditional chili and more of a savory, spiced meat gravy. It features ground beef simmered with water rather than beans, creating a unique texture that coats the hot dog perfectly. The flavor profile is driven by a robust blend of chili powder, paprika, and dry mustard, offering a warm, earthy heat without the bitterness of dark chilies. It&# 226;ÂÂs the ultimate comfort food topping, best enjoyed draped over a steamed hot dog in a soft bun. Perfect for game day gatherings, summer barbecues, or a nostalgic weeknight dinner that brings a taste of Michigan to your table.

Cooking Method: Microwave, Steaming, Stewing

Cuisine: American

Courses: Sauces & Condiments

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 10

Calories: 252.4

Dietary: Gluten-free

Description

This iconic Detroit-style sauce is less of a traditional chili and more of a savory, spiced meat gravy. It features ground beef simmered with water rather than beans, creating a unique texture that coats the hot dog perfectly. The flavor profile is driven by a robust blend of chili powder, paprika, and dry mustard, offering a warm, earthy heat without the bitterness of dark chilies. It&# 226;ÂÂs the ultimate comfort food topping, best enjoyed draped over a steamed hot dog in a soft bun. Perfect for game day gatherings, summer barbecues, or a nostalgic weeknight dinner that brings a taste of Michigan to your table.

Ingredients

1 pound Hamburger
2 cup Cold water
5 tablespoon Chili Powder
3 tablespoon Paprika
1 tablespoon Dry Mustard

Directions

1
Place the raw ground hamburger into a large skillet or saucepan.
2
Pour 2 cups of cold water directly over the raw meat in the pan.
3
Add 5 tablespoons of chili powder, 3 tablespoons of paprika, and 1 tablespoon of dry mustard to the pan.
4
Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
5
Stir the ingredients together gently and bring the mixture to a boil.
6
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the sauce simmer for about one hour.
7
Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent sticking and to break up the meat as it cooks.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 10

Amount Per Serving
Calories 252.4kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 8.2g13%
Saturated Fat 2.0g10%
Cholesterol 54.5mg19%
Sodium 1953.6mg82%
Total Carbohydrate 16.8g6%
Dietary Fiber 10.3g42%
Sugars 4.0g
Protein 32.7g66%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

While the sauce simmers, steam or microwave your hot dogs and buns until heated through.

Spoon the thickened meat sauce generously over the steamed hot dogs.

Top with a stripe of yellow mustard and chopped white onions before serving.

Storage: Refrigerate cooled sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.

Tip: For a deeper flavor, add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of garlic powder to the simmering mixture.

Keywords: michigan chili, detroit hot dog, meat sauce, ground beef, chili powder, paprika, dry mustard, comfort food, american cuisine, barbecue, game day, hot dog topping, spiced gravy, simmered meat, nostalgic recipe, summer grilling, family dinner, easy main

Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/michigan-chili-dog-sauce/