Description

Chili Cheese Coneys are the perfect combination of two classic comfort foods: hot dogs and chili. This recipe delivers a deliciously hearty and flavorful meal that is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a casual family dinner, a weekend cookout, or a fun game day snack. With a zesty chili sauce, tender hot dogs, and a sprinkle of cheese, these coneys are sure to satisfy even the biggest appetites. The best part? They are easy to make with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen!

Ingredients

• For the Chili:
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Coney:
• 8 beef hot dogs
• 8 hot dog buns
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped onions (optional)
• 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
• Mustard and ketchup, for serving (optional)

Preparation Method

Prepare the Chili: Start by heating a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is fully browned. Drain any excess fat from the beef if necessary to keep the chili from becoming too greasy.

Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan, cooking them until they are soft and translucent—this should take about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the tomato sauce, kidney beans, and beef broth, and give it all a good mix.

Now, add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using) into the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir the ingredients until everything is well combined. Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the flavors will meld together, and the chili will thicken. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Cook the Hot Dogs: While the chili is simmering, it’s time to cook the hot dogs. Preheat your grill or stovetop griddle over medium heat. Grill the hot dogs for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are heated through and slightly browned on the outside. Alternatively, you can cook the hot dogs in a skillet over medium heat until they are fully cooked and have a nice golden-brown color. If you’d like, you can warm the buns on the grill or in the oven while you’re cooking the hot dogs.

Assemble the Chili Cheese Coneys: Once the hot dogs and chili are ready, it’s time to assemble! Place each cooked hot dog into a bun. Spoon a generous amount of the warm chili over each hot dog, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Top it off with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the chili for that perfect creamy finish.

For an extra flavor boost, add chopped onions and sliced jalapeños on top. If you like a bit of sweetness, a drizzle of mustard and ketchup can elevate the dish further.

Serve: Serve the Chili Cheese Coneys immediately, fresh and hot, with your favorite side dishes. They go wonderfully with crispy fries, onion rings, or even a fresh salad to balance out the richness. Enjoy them with friends or family for a memorable meal that will keep everyone coming back for more!

Tips and Conclusion

Make Ahead: You can prepare the chili in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or even freeze it for up to 3 months. When you're ready to serve, just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

Customizing: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Consider adding diced tomatoes, pickled relish, or a drizzle of hot sauce for added flavor and texture.

Spicy Chili: If you prefer a spicier chili, feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste. You can also add fresh chopped chili peppers for an extra kick.

With its rich, smoky flavor and satisfying toppings, Chili Cheese Coneys are an irresistible meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or just craving comfort food, this recipe is the perfect choice for a delicious and filling dish!