Classic Varsity Chili for Hot Dogs
Experience the nostalgic taste of downtown Atlanta with this hearty chili recipe reminiscent of the iconic chili dogs from The Varsity. This classic dish is packed with bold flavors and a delightful warmth, making it the perfect topping for your favorite hot dogs. Whether you're hosting a game day gathering or a casual family dinner, this chili is sure to evoke fond memories and satisfy hungry appetites, offering the perfect blend of spice and comfort in every bite.
18
Servings
161
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Lean ground beef
4 lbs (none)
Onion
1/2 (chopped fine)
Salt
1-2 teaspoons (to taste)
Ground cumin
2 tablespoons (none)
Chili powder
6 tablespoons (none)
Water
2 cups (none)
Chili seasoning mix
1 (1 1/4 ounce) package (none)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, brown the lean ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks, and drain any excess fat.
2
Add the chopped onions to the skillet and sauté them with the browned beef for about 3-4 minutes, until they're softened.
3
Transfer the beef and onion mixture to a large crockpot.
4
Add salt, ground cumin, chili powder, and chili seasoning mix to the crockpot, mixing well to combine the flavors.
5
Pour in the 2 cups of water and stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
6
Set the crockpot to high and let it cook for 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
7
After 2 hours, stir the chili well, then reduce the heat to low.
8
Continue to cook on low for an additional 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally until the chili is thick and flavorful.
9
Serve hot over your favorite hot dogs and enjoy the taste of Varsity-style chili!
Nutrition Information
9.9g
Fat
1.9g
Carbs
13.8g
Protein
0.4g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Classic Varsity Chili for Hot Dogs?
It is a hearty chili recipe inspired by the iconic chili dogs from The Varsity in downtown Atlanta, offering bold flavors and nostalgic warmth.
How many servings does this chili recipe make?
This recipe yields 18 servings, making it ideal for large gatherings or game days.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 4 lbs of lean ground beef.
How do I prepare the beef?
Brown the lean ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks, and drain any excess fat.
Are onions included in this recipe?
Yes, 1/2 an onion, finely chopped, is sautéed with the beef for 3-4 minutes until softened.
What is the total slow cooker time?
The chili cooks for a total of 8 to 10 hours in the crockpot: 2 hours on high followed by 6-8 hours on low.
How much chili powder is required?
You will need 6 tablespoons of chili powder for this recipe.
How much cumin should I add?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of ground cumin.
Do I need a special seasoning mix?
Yes, use one 1 1/4 ounce package of chili seasoning mix in addition to the other spices.
How much water is added to the crockpot?
Add 2 cups of water to the meat and spice mixture.
What are the nutritional facts for one serving?
One serving contains 161 calories, 9.9g of fat, 1.9g of carbohydrates, and 13.8g of protein.
Is there any fiber in the chili?
Yes, there is approximately 0.4g of fiber per serving.
What are the slow cooker temperature settings?
Start on high for the first 2 hours, then reduce the heat to low for the remainder of the cooking time.
Can I serve this chili on something other than hot dogs?
While designed as a hot dog topping, this classic meat chili can also be enjoyed on its own or with other comfort foods.
How much salt is used?
Add 1-2 teaspoons of salt, or adjust to your personal taste.
What is the first step in making the chili?
The first step is browning the lean ground beef in a skillet and draining the fat.
What is the final texture of the chili?
After slow cooking, the chili should be thick and flavorful.
Is this recipe considered a 'comfort food'?
Yes, it is tagged as a classic comfort food recipe.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
The recipe data indicates that there is no sugar added.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
There are 7 main ingredients: ground beef, onion, salt, cumin, chili powder, water, and chili seasoning mix.
What categories does this recipe belong to?
It is categorized under Meat recipes.
What is the preparation for the onion?
The onion should be chopped fine before sautéing.
When should I stir the chili?
Stir well after the first 2 hours of cooking on high, and then occasionally while it cooks on low.
Can this recipe be made for game day?
Yes, it is highly recommended for game day gatherings due to its large yield and popular flavor.
What city is this recipe style associated with?
This recipe is associated with the classic flavors of downtown Atlanta.
How much fat is in a serving?
Each serving contains 9.9 grams of fat.
Are there any specific tags for this recipe?
Tags include chili, hot dogs, varsity, atlanta, comfort food, and slow cooker.
How long does it take for onions to soften?
Sauté the onions with the beef for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened.
What is the carbohydrate content?
This chili is low in carbs, with only 1.9g per serving.
Should the chili be served hot?
Yes, serve it hot over your favorite hot dogs for the best experience.