Easy Detroit Coney Dog Recipe

This easy Detroit coney dog recipe is your ticket to recreating a Midwest classic right at home.

These chili-topped hot dogs are messy, meaty, and packed with the kind of comfort that only a diner-style dish can bring. No need to book a trip to Michigan when you can throw these together in your own kitchen.

What Makes a Detroit Coney Dog Unique?

Detroit coney dogs are more than just hot dogs with chili. They’re built around specific details:

• A snappy, all-beef hot dog (often made with natural casing)
• A soft, steamed bun
• A beefy, loose chili sauce that’s more like a seasoned ground meat topping than a typical chili
• Chopped white onions and a squiggle of yellow mustard to finish it off

The result is a hot dog with just enough spice and richness to stand out without being too heavy.

Tips for Making It at Home

• Use a griddle or skillet to lightly toast the buns if you can’t steam them.
• Simmer the chili long enough for the meat to become tender and the liquid to reduce.
• Let guests build their own with toppings on the side for a crowd-friendly spread.

Storage Instructions

If you’ve got leftovers, separate the components.

• Chili: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove or microwave until hot.
• Hot dogs: Keep cooked hot dogs in a sealed container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. You can reheat by simmering in water or microwaving.
• Buns: Store buns at room temperature in a sealed bag for a couple of days, or freeze if you won’t use them right away.

Keep the onions and mustard fresh in the fridge and assemble everything when you’re ready to eat. It keeps the buns from getting soggy and makes the final result taste like it was just made.