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 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup tomato sauce; 2 tbsp ketchup; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp yellow mustard; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

A rich and savory sauce that elevates your hot dog experience to new heights.

Created by

Isabella Clark

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:00:59.911Z

Experience the flavors of Coney Island with this delicious hot dog sauce that’s perfect for summer barbecues or game day gatherings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with bold flavors that complement any hot dog
Easy to make and customize to your taste
Perfect balance of sweet and savory notes

      

The Perfect Hot Dog Companion

When it comes to hot dogs, the toppings can make or break the experience. This Coney Island hot dog sauce brings a unique twist that is both hearty and flavorful. Its rich blend of ingredients adds depth to your simple hot dog, giving it that authentic street food vibe. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just enjoying a casual weeknight dinner, this sauce elevates your meal from ordinary to extraordinary.

The combination of ground beef, onions, and spices creates a delightful texture and taste that pairs perfectly with any type of hot dog. Whether you prefer beef, pork, or even a plant-based option, this sauce will enhance the flavors and add a satisfying crunch with every bite. Your guests will be raving about this sauce long after the meal is over.

Customizing Your Sauce

One of the best aspects of this Coney Island hot dog sauce is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients to suit your personal taste. For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. If you enjoy a smokier flavor, try incorporating smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke. The balance of sweet and savory is a base, but your creativity can take it to new heights.

If you’re looking to make this sauce a bit healthier, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Additionally, reducing the amount of brown sugar or opting for a sugar substitute can help cater to specific dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. The options are endless, and every twist you add can create a new favorite variation.

Serving Suggestions

To truly enjoy this Coney Island hot dog sauce, consider serving it over grilled hot dogs in soft buns. Top with diced onions, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an added touch. Pair it with classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or crispy fries for a complete meal that everyone will love. This sauce also works great as a dip for soft breadsticks or as a topping for nachos, making it a versatile addition to any gathering.

For a fun twist, try using this sauce in a hot dog casserole. Layer cooked pasta, hot dog slices, and this rich sauce in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly. This creative dish is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters and adds a comforting touch to your dinner table.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup tomato sauce
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp yellow mustard
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all the ingredients well before cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious sauce:

Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the tomato sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Simmer the Sauce

Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Once done, serve the sauce hot over your favorite hot dogs!

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftover Coney Island hot dog sauce, you can easily store it for future use. Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to one week, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

For longer storage, this sauce freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and label them with the date. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Nutritional Information

This Coney Island hot dog sauce is not only delicious but can also be a balanced addition to your meal. With a good source of protein from the ground beef and essential vitamins from the onions and garlic, it provides nutritional benefits while being indulgent. However, be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you are incorporating it into a larger meal with various sides.

To make it even healthier, consider using lean ground beef or substituting with turkey or plant-based meat alternatives. This way, you can enjoy the rich flavors without compromising your health goals, making it a suitable option for a variety of dietary preferences.

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.

→ Is this sauce gluten-free?

Ensure that you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and it will be gluten-free.

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.