When it comes to elevating the humble hot dog, nothing does the trick quite like a savory meat sauce. Perfectly seasoned and packed with flavor, this hot dog meat sauce recipe will transform your franks into a gourmet delight. Whether you’re planning a family barbecue or just a casual meal, this sauce will become your go-to topping. Let’s dive into how to make this ultimate hot dog meat sauce recipe.
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Ingredients
To start, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This should take about 6-8 minutes.
- Add the Aromatics: Once the beef is browned, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Combine the Sauces: Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly to combine all the flavors.
- Season the Sauce: Add the brown sugar, mustard powder, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed.
- Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Final Touches: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This hot dog meat sauce recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this delicious topper:
- Classic Hot Dogs: Spoon the sauce generously over grilled or boiled hot dogs in toasted buns. Top with shredded cheese, diced onions, and pickles for an extra layer of flavor.
- Chili Cheese Dogs: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the hot meat sauce and place under the broiler for a minute to melt the cheese. Add a dollop of sour cream and chopped green onions for a hearty meal.
- Loaded Fries: Pour the meat sauce over a bed of crispy French fries and top with melted cheese and jalapenos for a game-day snack.
- Nachos: Use the sauce as a topping for nachos, along with cheese, jalapenos, and sour cream for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Tips for the Perfect Hot Dog Meat Sauce
- Make Ahead: This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.
- Freezing: The sauce also freezes well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Customization: Feel free to customize the sauce to your taste. Add more spices for heat, or a splash of vinegar for tanginess.
Conclusion
This hot dog meat sauce recipe is the ultimate way to upgrade your franks. With its rich, savory flavor and versatile use, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re a fan of classic hot dogs or looking to try something new, this meat sauce will not disappoint. So, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the best hot dog meat sauce you’ve ever tasted.
