Footlong Chili Cheese Coney’s – The Ultimate Loaded Hot Dog

If you love bold flavors, gooey cheese, and hearty chili, then this Footlong Chili Cheese Coney’s recipe is for you! A footlong hot dog, grilled to perfection, is nestled in a soft, toasted bun and loaded with savory chili and melty cheese for the ultimate indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, backyard cookout, or just craving a classic comfort food, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results at home.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to make the perfect Footlong Chili Cheese Coney’s, from preparing a rich and meaty chili topping to assembling the best combination of flavors and textures. Get ready to dig into a delicious, messy, and satisfying meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A Classic American Favorite

The Footlong Chili Cheese Coney’s is a timeless American comfort food, loved for its combination of savory chili, smoky hot dog, and gooey melted cheese. Whether you’ve had it at a classic drive-in, a ballpark, or a backyard cookout, this recipe brings all those nostalgic flavors straight to your kitchen. If you’re a fan of bold chili flavors, you might also love this Chili Con Carne with Macaroni, which shares a similar rich, hearty taste and can even be used as an alternative chili topping for your coney.

Perfect for Cookouts, Game Days, and More

This recipe is great for any occasion—whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer BBQ, looking for the perfect game day snack, or just making a fun family meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this homemade version lets you customize your toppings while ensuring every bite is flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients Needed for Footlong Chili Cheese Coney’s

Essential Ingredients for the Chili

A rich, flavorful chili is what makes a Footlong Chili Cheese Coney’s so irresistible. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground beef (80/20 blend) – Adds the perfect balance of flavor and juiciness.
• Onion (finely diced) – Enhances the depth of flavor in the chili.
• Garlic (minced) – A must-have for a bold, savory kick.
• Tomato sauce – Creates a thick and smooth chili base.
• Tomato paste – Adds richness and intensifies the tomato flavor.
• Beef broth – Keeps the chili moist and enhances its depth.
• Chili powder – Provides the signature warm, smoky flavor.
• Cumin – Adds an earthy spice that complements the chili.
• Paprika (regular or smoked) – Gives a slight sweetness and depth.
• Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning.
• Brown sugar – Balances acidity and enhances the meaty flavors.
• Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami and depth.

Hot Dogs and Toppings

• Footlong hot dogs – Choose high-quality beef hot dogs for the best flavor.
• Hot dog buns (footlong size) – Soft yet sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
• Shredded cheddar cheese – A classic melty topping for the perfect bite.
• Yellow mustard (optional) – Adds a tangy contrast to the rich chili.
• Diced onions (optional) – For a crisp, slightly sharp bite.
• Jalapeños (optional) – If you love a spicy kick!

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Footlong Chili Cheese Coney’s

1. Prepare the Chili

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess fat if needed.
5. Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring the chili to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside.

2. Cook the Hot Dogs

1. Grill Method (Best Flavor): Preheat a grill to medium-high heat and grill the footlong hot dogs for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until lightly charred.
2. Stovetop Method: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and cook the hot dogs for 4-5 minutes, rolling occasionally until evenly browned.
3. Boiling Method (Quickest Option): Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the hot dogs, and cook for 5 minutes until heated through.

3. Assemble the Chili Cheese Coney

1. Lightly toast the hot dog buns on the grill or in a pan for 1-2 minutes until warm and slightly crisp.
2. Place the grilled hot dog inside the bun.
3. Generously spoon the chili over the hot dog, covering it completely.

4. Melt the Cheese and Serve

1. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the hot chili while it’s still warm.
2. If desired, place the assembled coney under the broiler for 1-2 minutes to melt the cheese completely.
3. Add toppings like diced onions, mustard, or jalapeños.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Footlong Chili Cheese Coney’s

Choosing the Best Hot Dog and Bun

• All-beef footlong hot dogs provide the best flavor and texture for this recipe. Look for brands with high-quality ingredients.
• If footlong buns aren’t available, you can use two standard-sized hot dog buns to hold a single footlong hot dog.
• Lightly toasting the buns prevents them from becoming soggy when topped with chili.

For a unique twist, you could try pairing this with a Texas Brisket Sandwich for a meat lover’s dream meal.

How to Make the Chili Extra Flavorful

• Simmer the chili longer for a deeper, richer taste—30 minutes or more enhances the flavors.
• Use fresh garlic and onion instead of powdered versions for a more authentic taste.
• Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lime juice at the end of cooking balances the chili’s richness.

The Best Cheese for Melting

• Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully and adds a sharp, tangy contrast to the chili.
• Pepper Jack or Monterey Jack cheeses are great options if you like a creamier, slightly spicy kick.
• For an extra creamy texture, consider using nacho cheese sauce instead of shredded cheese.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Proper Storage for Chili and Hot Dogs

If you have leftover Footlong Chili Cheese Coney’s, follow these steps to keep them fresh:

• Chili: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Hot Dogs: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Buns: Store at room temperature in a sealed bag for 1-2 days, or freeze for up to a month to keep them fresh.

Best Methods for Reheating

• Chili: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Hot Dogs:
  • Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
  • Microwave: Wrap in a damp paper towel and heat for 30-45 seconds.
  • Grill: Quickly reheat on the grill for 1-2 minutes.
• Fully Assembled Coney: If already assembled, wrap in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes to reheat evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion – Why You Need to Try This Footlong Chili Cheese Coney’s Recipe

This Footlong Chili Cheese Coney’s recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining smoky, juicy hot dogs with rich, meaty chili and melty cheese for a satisfying bite every time. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, game day, or backyard cookout, this recipe is easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.

If you’re looking to explore more chili-inspired dishes, be sure to check out Cajun Mac and Cheese for another indulgent, cheesy meal with bold flavors.

With customizable toppings, bold flavors, and simple storage options, this homemade version beats any fast-food coney. So fire up the grill, pile on the chili and cheese, and enjoy this classic American favorite right at home!

Footlong Chili Cheese Coney’s

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• Author: Marina
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 footlong coneys 1x

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Description

This Footlong Chili Cheese Coney is the ultimate comfort food, featuring a grilled, juicy hot dog nestled in a soft toasted bun, topped with savory homemade chili and gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re making it for game day, a backyard cookout, or just craving a classic diner-style meal, this recipe delivers bold flavors and restaurant-quality results right at home.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Chili Topping:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 small onion (finely diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp brown sugar

For the Hot Dogs & Assembly:

• 4 footlong beef hot dogs
• 4 footlong hot dog buns
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup diced onions (optional)
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard (optional)
• Sliced jalapeños (optional, for spice)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chili:

• Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add diced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft.
• Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
• Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
• Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes until thickened. Set aside.

2. Cook the Hot Dogs:

• Grill Method (Best Flavor): Preheat grill to medium-high heat and grill hot dogs for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.
• Stovetop Method: Cook hot dogs in a skillet over medium heat for 4-5 minutes, rolling occasionally.
• Boiling Method: Bring a pot of water to a boil, add hot dogs, and cook for 5 minutes.

3. Toast the Buns & Assemble:

• Lightly toast the hot dog buns on the grill or in a pan for 1-2 minutes.
• Place the grilled hot dog in the bun.
• Spoon warm chili generously over the hot dog.
• Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt.

4. Add Toppings & Serve:

• Garnish with diced onions, mustard, or jalapeños, if desired.
• Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

• Storage:
  • Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Keep hot dogs in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating:
  • Chili: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals.
  • Hot Dogs: Grill, pan-sear, or microwave for 30-45 seconds.
  • Fully Assembled Coney: Wrap in foil and bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
• Customization:
  • Use nacho cheese sauce instead of shredded cheese for an extra creamy texture.
  • Swap jalapeños for pickled banana peppers for a milder heat.
  • Add bacon crumbles for a smoky twist!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Comfort Food
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 footlong chili cheese coney
• Calories: 750 kcal
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 1350mg
• Fat: 42g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 90mg