Hot Dog Shoppe Chili Cheese Hot Dog
Bring a taste of Pittsburgh into your kitchen with this homemade version of the iconic chili cheese hot dog, inspired by the famous New Brighton Hot Dog Shoppe. Known for its mouthwatering chili and perfectly steamed buns, the Hot Dog Shoppe has become a local staple, beloved for its rich, savory chili cheese dogs. This recipe recreates that delicious experience with all-beef hot dogs, a homemade chili sauce, melted cheddar cheese, and a side of crispy shoestring fries. Perfect for satisfying cravings and giving you a little slice of Pittsburgh wherever you are!
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
1 Pounds ground beed (for the chili sauce)
.5 Cups finely diced onion (for the chili sauce)
1 Teaspoons cloves garlic, minced (for the chili sauce)
1 Cups tomato sauce (for the chili sauce)
.5 Cups beef broth (or water) (for the chili sauce)
2 Tablespoons chili powder (for the chili sauce)
1 Teaspoons ground cumin (for the chili sauce)
.5 Teaspoons smoked paprika (for the chili sauce)
.5 Teaspoons onion powder (for the chili sauce)
.25 Teaspoons cayenne pepper (optional, for heat) (for the chili sauce)
2 Pinches salt and pepper (to taste) (for the chili sauce)
10 Ounces all-beef hot dogs (4 hot dogs)
6 Ounces hot dog buns (4 hot dog buns)
1 Cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 Tablespoons yellow mustard (optional, more or less for your liking)
1 Cups shoestring fries (per serving, optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chili Sauce:
In a medium skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles until browned. Drain any excess grease.
Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
Simmer the mixture over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful. Adjust seasoning as needed.
2. Cook the Hot Dogs:
Grill, boil, or pan-sear the hot dogs to your preferred level of doneness. (They boil theirs, so that would be the most accurate dupe)
3. Steam the Buns:
While the hot dogs are cooking, lightly steam the buns for a soft and warm texture. You can do this by placing them in a steamer basket over simmering water for 1-2 minutes or wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 15-20 seconds.
4. Assemble the Chili Cheese Dogs:
Place each hot dog into a steamed bun.
Spoon a generous amount of chili sauce over the hot dog.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Optional: Add a drizzle of yellow mustard for an extra tangy kick.
5. Serve:
Serve immediately. This recipe makes 4 chili cheese hot dogs, perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together. Enjoy!