Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce

Name: Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; Hot dog buns, for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce is a classic topping that adds a flavorful kick to your favorite hot dogs.

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2025-12-21T06:30:57.196Z

This Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce recipe brings the taste of the boardwalk to your backyard barbecues. Rich in flavor and easy to make, it's the perfect addition to any hot dog.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Savory and slightly spicy flavor that elevates any hot dog
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight meals or gatherings
Versatile sauce that can also be used in other dishes like nachos or chili

      

A Taste of Coney Island

Coney Island is renowned for its vibrant boardwalk, bustling atmosphere, and, of course, its iconic hot dogs. The Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce embodies the essence of this beloved destination, capturing its unique blend of flavors that have delighted locals and tourists alike for generations. This sauce transforms a simple hot dog into a gourmet experience, making it a must-try for any hot dog enthusiast.

What sets Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce apart is its perfect balance of savory and spicy elements. The combination of ground beef, aromatic spices, and a hint of heat creates a sauce that complements the juicy hot dog perfectly. Whether you're enjoying a day at the beach or hosting a backyard barbecue, this sauce is sure to elevate your hot dog game to new heights.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce is its versatility. While it’s a fantastic topping for hot dogs, it can also be used in a variety of other dishes. Try it over nachos for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or mix it into chili for an extra kick of flavor. Its robust taste makes it a great addition to any meal, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering with friends.

Additionally, this sauce is quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of this delicious sauce in no time. It’s also a great make-ahead option; simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat when you're ready to serve.

Customization Options

While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to customize it to suit your personal taste. If you prefer a milder sauce, you can reduce the amount of chili powder or add a touch of sugar to balance the flavors. For those who enjoy a bit more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra spice. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, allowing you to create a sauce that’s uniquely yours.

You can also experiment with different types of meat. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef, while plant-based ground meat provides a delicious vegetarian option. No matter how you choose to make it, this sauce is sure to impress and satisfy.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce:

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Hot dog buns, for serving

Once you have all your ingredients, you are ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce:

Cook the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is cooked through.

Add the Seasonings

Stir in the beef broth, chili powder, paprika, cumin, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer.

Simmer the Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve the hot dog sauce over grilled hot dogs in buns and enjoy!

Your Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce is now ready to be enjoyed!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce, the possibilities are endless. Start with your favorite hot dog, whether it’s classic beef, turkey, or a vegetarian option. Toasted buns add an extra crunch and flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory sauce. Top it off with your favorite condiments like mustard, ketchup, or diced onions for a complete experience.

For a more elaborate meal, consider creating a hot dog bar at your next gathering. Set out various toppings like shredded cheese, jalapeños, and coleslaw, allowing guests to customize their hot dogs to their liking. This interactive dining experience is sure to be a hit!

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce, don’t worry! It stores well in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce in individual portions. This makes it easy to have a quick meal option on hand for busy nights. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and you’ll have a delicious topping ready in minutes.

Nutritional Information

Coney Island Hot Dog Sauce is not only delicious but can also be part of a balanced diet. Ground beef provides essential protein, while the spices offer various health benefits. For a lighter version, you can opt for lean ground beef or substitutes like turkey or plant-based proteins, which can reduce the overall fat content while still delivering great flavor.

When served with whole-grain hot dog buns and plenty of fresh toppings like vegetables, this dish becomes not just a tasty treat but a satisfying meal that can fit into various dietary preferences. Always check ingredient labels if you're watching your sodium or calorie intake, and feel free to adjust the recipe to make it even healthier.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

→ What type of meat can I use?

You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

→ Can I freeze the sauce?

Absolutely! Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.

→ Is this sauce spicy?

It has a mild spice level, but you can adjust the chili powder to your preference.