Spicy Hot Dog Meat Sauce

A bowl of meat hot sauce with a spoon in it and a striped napkin behind it.

My spicy hot dog meat sauce is a regional treat from upstate New York! This is the same hot sauce you'll find on a garbage plate at Nick Tahou's. It's easy to make, spicy, and delicious — and perfect for hot dogs, hamburgers, and more.

Course Condiment, dinner, Lunch

Cuisine condiment, meat, picnic, Summer

Diet Diabetic, Gluten Free

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 3 10

Total Time 3 15

Servings servings

Calories 121kcal

Author Jessy Freimann

Equipment

Ingredients

1 pound 80/20 ground beef you want this fat for more flavor!
1 cup minced dried onions
1 quart water
1 Tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper my mom tells me that this originally had 1 Tbsp. listed as the amount but it was coming out way too spicy- so taste it once it's ready and add more if you feel it needs more, but use a light hand!
1 Tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon Kosher salt to taste

Instructions

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium high heat, using your spoon to break it up.
Once browned, add the next 6 ingredients and stir well to combine.
Bring the pot to a boil and then reduce the heat to medium low.
Simmer for 3 hours, stirring periodically. If the sauce starts to seem dry, add more water.
After 3 hours, taste it and add salt to your taste. Serve immediately or cool and freeze.

Video

Notes

Before making this, my mom warned me that it would smell up my house, so I feel like I should give you all the same warning! I actually didn't really mind it myself. My kitchen smelled absolutely delicious and spicy — not only hot spicy, but the cinnamon in the recipe added such a yummy scent and even more fantastic flavor!

Speaking of parents, this would make a great Father's Day gift! It's perfect for the carnivore, spice-loving people in your life!

Be patient as it cooks. And make sure to let it simmer for the full 3 hours. This is one of those low-and-slow recipes that taste better the longer it cooks.

I'll often freeze the rest for later. It freezes beautifully and it's always nice to have some on hand to pull out whenever you are enjoying you're own hots and hammies this summer! Pro tip: freeze in smaller containers so you can pull smaller amounts out as needed.

Ingredients to prep ahead: You can measure out the onions and seasonings before getting started.

Leftovers and storage: Make sure the meat hot sauce has cooled completely before adding it to an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. It will keep in the freezer for 3-6 months — thaw it in the fridge overnight before using.

Nutrition