Happy National Chili Dog Day!

Did you know July is officially National Hot Dog Month, with National Chili Dog Day falling right in the middle of the summer heat? According to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, Americans are expected to enjoy a staggering 7 billion hot dogs between Memorial Day and Labor Day. And July alone accounts for 10% of annual retail hot dog sales. This is proof that this iconic food is a summer staple!

There are countless ways to enjoy a hot dog. However, my personal favorite is the chili dog—messy, flavorful, and totally satisfying.

Over the years, I’ve tried several variations, each with its own charm:

• Oven Dogs – I bake these with Hormel Chili with Beans for a cozy, melty twist.
• Coney Dogs – Think of these as a delicious mashup between a hot dog and a sloppy joe—savory and saucy!
• Crock Pot Chili Dogs – Made with Hormel’s No Bean Chili, these are perfect for parties or game day. I’ll admit—this version might just be my favorite.

If you’re looking for more creative ways to celebrate, Hormel has some fantastic chili dog recipes, including a fresh take with their Garden-Style Chili Dog. Their chili lineup offers plenty of variety, so you can mix and match to suit your taste.

And it’s not just about the toppings anymore. Today’s hot dog scene includes flavorful options like Hormel’s Natural Choice Line, featuring smoked sausages in turkey, beef, and chicken. The chicken varieties come in bold flavors like spinach asiago, apple gouda, and jalapeño cheddar—all 100% natural and preservative-free.

So tell me—how do you top your hot dog? Are you a classic ketchup-and-mustard fan, or do you go all out with chili, cheese, and onions? Let’s celebrate the season one bite at a time!

Disclosure: I am an Extended Family Blogger for Hormel Foods and receive compensation for my participation.