Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce (Homemade Chili Sauce)

Name: Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce (Homemade Chili Sauce)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup tomato sauce; 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Elevate your favorite hot dogs with this Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce, a deliciously rich and tangy homemade chili sauce. This easy-to-follow recipe combines ground meat, savory spices, and a hint of sweetness to create the perfect topping for iconic street-style hot dogs. Ideal for summer barbecues or cozy family dinners, this sauce will add a burst of flavor to every bite.

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-10T12:18:05.516Z

This Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce recipe is inspired by the classic street food. It's perfect for any gathering!

A Touch of Tradition

Coney Island hot dog sauce is steeped in tradition, drawing on the vibrant street food culture that has defined New York for centuries. Originating from the iconic Coney Island area, this sauce has been a staple for hot dog vendors and families alike, contributing to a unique culinary experience. By making this sauce at home, you not only get to enjoy an authentic flavor but also add your personal twist to a time-honored recipe.

Many fans of Coney Island hot dog sauce swear by its combination of spices and sweetness, which creates a perfect balance of flavors. The robust taste enhances the simple hot dog, transforming it into a gourmet delight that you can proudly serve to family and friends. As you perfect this recipe, feel free to experiment with additional spices to suit your taste.

Perfect Pairings

This tangy and rich homemade chili sauce pairs beautifully with various toppings and side dishes, making your hot dog experience even more delightful. From classic mustard and relish to more adventurous toppings like caramelized onions and jalapeños, the options are endless. Whether hosting a barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner, you can elevate your hot dog game with this versatile sauce.

For a complete meal, consider serving your Coney Island hot dogs with crispy fries or a fresh coleslaw. The crunch and acidity of the slaw complement the richness of the sauce, adding a refreshing contrast. You can even create a hot dog bar, allowing guests to personalize their dogs with various toppings, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup tomato sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar

Mix thoroughly and let the flavors meld!

Instructions

Cook the Meat

In a medium saucepan, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft.

Add Spices and Sauce

Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, tomato sauce, and brown sugar. Mix well.

Simmer the Sauce

Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve hot on your favorite hot dogs!

Tips for the Best Sauce

To achieve the richest flavor in your Coney Island hot dog sauce, consider using high-quality ground beef. Opt for 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio beef for juiciness and flavor without being overly greasy. Additionally, don’t hesitate to let the sauce simmer longer than 30 minutes—this will deepen the flavors even further, allowing the spices to meld beautifully.

Using fresh spices can make a noticeable difference in the overall taste of the sauce. Spices lose potency over time, so be sure to check the freshness of your chili powder and cumin before using them. Freshly ground spices can enhance the sauce's complexity and are well worth the extra effort.

Storage and Reheating

This homemade Coney Island hot dog sauce can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep. After cooking, allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, allowing you to enjoy its vibrant flavors throughout the week.

When it comes time to reheat, simply warm the sauce on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. If the sauce has thickened too much in the refrigerator, you can add a splash of water or additional tomato sauce to achieve your desired consistency. Enjoy it warm on your hot dogs or even as a topping for nachos or baked potatoes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ What can I serve this sauce with?

It's perfect for hot dogs, but also great on burgers or nachos!