Outer Banks Style Hot Dog Chili

The Outer Banks of North Carolina, known for its stunning landscapes and rich maritime history, also boasts a unique culinary heritage, blending coastal flavors with Southern comfort.

Among the region’s casual dining favorites is the Outer Banks Style Hot Dog Chili—a simple, yet robustly flavored chili that’s perfect for dressing up your hot dogs, whether you’re enjoying a sunny beach day or a cozy meal at home.

Ingredients for 1 Pound Version

• 1 lb Ground Beef: The base of our chili, providing rich, meaty flavor.

• 1/3 cup Diced Onions: Adds sweetness and texture.

• 1/2 tbsp Black Pepper: For a hint of spice.

• 2 tsp Garlic, minced: Brings aromatic depth.

• 1 tbsp Paprika: Offers sweetness and color.

• 1 tbsp Chili Powder: The key spice for that classic chili taste.

• 1/4 tsp Salt: To enhance all the flavors.

Simplified Cooking Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients: Start by finely dicing the onions and mincing the garlic, if you’re using fresh garlic. Getting these ingredients prepped beforehand makes the cooking process smoother and faster.

2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or pot, begin by browning the ground beef over medium heat. Break the meat apart with a spoon or spatula to ensure even cooking. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat to keep your chili lean and flavorful.

3. Add the Aromatics: To the browned beef, add the diced onions, minced garlic, black pepper, paprika, chili powder, and salt. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the meat.

4. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for about 20 to 30 minutes. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a little water or beef broth to achieve your desired consistency.

5. Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste your chili and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sometimes a little extra pinch of salt or chili powder can really make the flavors pop.

Serving Suggestions

Outer Banks Style Hot Dog Chili is versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some suggestions to serve it up in true Outer Banks fashion:

• Classic Hot Dog Topping: Spoon it generously over grilled or boiled hot dogs, nestled in soft buns. Top with shredded cheese, diced onions, and mustard for a complete experience.

• Chili Cheese Fries: Elevate a side of fries with a hearty topping of this chili and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese.

• Beach Picnic Side: Pack it up for a beach picnic as a topping for grilled sausages or burgers, adding a touch of Outer Banks flavor to your outdoor meal.

Embracing Outer Banks Traditions

This Outer Banks Style Hot Dog Chili recipe is more than just a topping; it’s a celebration of the simple yet flavorful culinary traditions of the North Carolina coast.

By scaling the recipe down to a more manageable size, we hope to bring a taste of the Outer Banks into your kitchen, making it easier for you to enjoy and share with your family and friends.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor inspired by the region’s flavors, this chili recipe promises to make your lunchtime meals more delicious and memorable.