If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, these Traeger No-Bean Chili Dogs are just what you need. Made with a smoky, meaty chili that’s packed with bold flavors and served over grilled hot dogs, this recipe is perfect for game days, cookouts, or a hearty family meal. The Traeger grill adds a rich, wood-fired taste to both the chili and the hot dogs, making this dish a must-try for barbecue lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smoky and flavorful – Cooking the chili on a Traeger grill infuses it with a delicious smoky taste.
No beans, all meat – A thick and hearty chili that’s perfect for hot dog toppings without any beans.
Perfect for cookouts – A crowd-pleasing dish that’s great for parties, tailgating, or backyard barbecues.
Customizable – You can adjust the spice level and toppings to suit your taste.
Great for meal prep – Make the chili ahead of time and store it for easy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Onion
Garlic
Tomato sauce
Diced tomatoes
Tomato paste
Beef broth
Worcestershire sauce
Chili powder
Smoked paprika
Cumin
Salt and pepper
Hot dogs
Hot dog buns
Cheddar cheese (optional)
Diced onions (optional)
Jalapeños (optional)

Directions

Preheat the Traeger Grill – Set your Traeger to 225°F and allow it to preheat.
Cook the beef – In a cast-iron skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
Sauté the aromatics – Add chopped onions and garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened.
Add the liquids and seasonings – Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Mix in Worcestershire sauce, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Smoke the chili – Place the skillet on the Traeger grill, close the lid, and smoke for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Grill the hot dogs – Increase the grill temperature to 375°F and cook the hot dogs for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally.
Assemble the chili dogs – Place hot dogs in buns, spoon the no-bean chili over them, and top with cheese, onions, or jalapeños if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 chili dogs
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick – Add chopped chipotle peppers or extra cayenne for more heat.
Turkey Option – Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option.
Low-Carb Version – Serve over grilled sausage instead of a bun.
Extra Smoky – Use hickory or mesquite wood pellets for deeper smoky flavors.
Cheesy Twist – Melt cheese directly into the chili for a creamy texture.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze chili in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm chili in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. Reheat hot dogs on the grill or stovetop.

FAQs

How do I keep my hot dog buns from getting soggy?

Lightly toast the buns on the grill for a few minutes before assembling the chili dogs.

Can I make this chili in advance?

Yes! The flavors develop even more overnight, making it a great make-ahead option.

What’s the best type of wood pellet for smoking chili?

Hickory, mesquite, or oak work best for a deep, smoky flavor.

Can I make this without a Traeger?

Absolutely! You can cook the chili on a stovetop and grill the hot dogs on a standard grill.

How can I make the chili thicker?

Let it simmer longer to reduce liquid, or add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.

What are the best toppings for chili dogs?

Shredded cheese, diced onions, jalapeños, mustard, or sour cream are all great options.

Can I use a different meat?

Yes! You can use ground turkey, pork, or even a mix of meats.

How do I make this chili milder?

Reduce the amount of chili powder and smoked paprika for a less spicy version.

What’s the best way to serve chili dogs for a crowd?

Set up a toppings bar so guests can customize their chili dogs to their liking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just use a larger skillet and adjust cooking times as needed.

Conclusion

Traeger No-Bean Chili Dogs are the perfect combination of smoky, meaty, and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or craving a hearty meal, this recipe delivers on flavor and convenience. With easy make-ahead options and endless variations, you can enjoy this dish exactly how you like it. Fire up your Traeger and give these chili dogs a try!