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Traeger No-Bean Chili Dogs

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  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Smoking & Grilling
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Traeger no-bean chili dogs take classic hot dogs to the next level with a rich, smoky, and hearty homemade chili—without the beans! The chili is slow-smoked on a Traeger grill, giving it a deep, wood-fired flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled hot dogs. Serve them on toasted buns with your favorite toppings for the ultimate backyard meal!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the No-Bean Chili:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Hot Dogs:

  • 8 all-beef hot dogs
  • 8 hot dog buns
  • 1 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)

Toppings (Optional):

  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Diced onions
  • Jalapeños
  • Yellow mustard

Instructions

Step 1: Make the No-Bean Chili

  1. Preheat your Traeger to 225°F (107°C) using hickory or mesquite pellets.
  2. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet or smoker-safe pan. Add onions and sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  4. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned.
  5. Stir in tomato paste, then add fire-roasted tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. Mix well.
  6. Place the skillet on the Traeger, close the lid, and smoke for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Grill the Hot Dogs

  1. Increase the Traeger temperature to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place hot dogs on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally for even charring.

Step 3: Assemble the Chili Dogs

  1. Toast the hot dog buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes with a little butter.
  2. Place the grilled hot dogs in the buns and generously spoon the smoked no-bean chili on top.
  3. Add your favorite toppings like cheddar cheese, onions, and jalapeños.

Notes

  • You can make the chili spicier by adding more cayenne or diced jalapeños.
  • The chili can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

 

  • For an extra-smoky flavor, stir in a dash of liquid smoke at the end.