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
- Preheat your Traeger to 225°F (107°C) using hickory or mesquite pellets.
- Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet or smoker-safe pan. Add onions and sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned.
- Stir in tomato paste, then add fire-roasted tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. Mix well.
- 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
- Increase the Traeger temperature to 375°F (190°C).
- Place hot dogs on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally for even charring.
Step 3: Assemble the Chili Dogs
- Toast the hot dog buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes with a little butter.
- Place the grilled hot dogs in the buns and generously spoon the smoked no-bean chili on top.
- 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.