Sonic Chili Dog Recipe

Anyone who’s sampled a Sonic Chili Dog knows that it is comfort food at its best, with the juicy hot dog, squishy bun, thick beef chili, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese nestled on top. I love to whip this up in the kitchen because it is quick and really fills your stomach, but tastes just like the love you would get at Sonic, except fresher and less costly.

What is Sonic Chili Dog All About?

A Sonic Chili Dog is basically a typical American hot dog dripping with thick, meaty chili and melty cheese. It’s smoky and savory yet just spicy enough to be wonderful. The appeal is simple: it’s messy in the best way, loaded with flavor, and fits the need of wanting a hearty bite. Think comfort food with a drive-in twist.

Ingredients

For the Chili:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Hot Dogs:

• 6 hot dog buns
• 6 beef hot dogs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Optional: diced onions, jalapeños, or sour cream for topping

How to Make Sonic Chili Dog

1. Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft. Stir in tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Simmer for 15 minutes until thick.
3. Meanwhile, grill or boil the hot dogs until cooked through.
4. Warm the buns slightly in the oven or microwave.
5. Place each hot dog in a bun, spoon chili generously over the top, and sprinkle with cheese.
6. Add extra toppings if you like, and dig in!

Storage Tips

• Store leftover chili in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
• Assembled chili dogs should be kept separate to avoid soggy buns.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve crispy fries, onion rings, or even tater tots on the side.
• To complete the”chili-dog party,” set up a chili dog bar with toppings.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Go lighter with turkey or veggie dogs instead of beef franks.
• To make it heartier, add beans to the chili.
• Spice enthusiasts can add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.

FAQs

1. Could I possibly tone down the spiciness on Sonic Chili Dog?

Definitely! Just lessen the chili powder or don’t put any jalapeños.

2. Can I get away with using canned chili?

Homemade rocks, but canned chili in a pinch is fine.

3. Do you have any gluten-free options?

Yes, simply use gluten-free buns and confirm your hot dogs are certified gluten-free.

4. Can I prep ahead?

Absolutely! You can cook the chili a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble just before serving.

Try It!

The Sonic Chili Dog is everything you want in comfort food: messy, cheesy, meaty, and satisfying. Easy to prepare and sure to impress a crowd or just spice up an otherwise mellow mid-week dinner, please give it a try—you just may make it over and over again!