How to Make Authentic Detroit-Style Coney Dog Chili Sauce

Detroit’s food scene is filled with iconic flavors, but few dishes are as beloved as the Detroit Coney Dog. This Michigan classic is defined by its signature Detroit-Style Coney Dog chili sauce—a rich, savory, beanless meat sauce that coats a snappy hot dog with bold flavor.

Unlike traditional chili, Detroit Coney Dog chili sauce is finely textured and spiced to enhance the hot dog without overpowering it. Whether you’re looking to recreate the magic of Lafayette or American Coney Island at home, this recipe delivers the real deal.

The Key to Perfect Coney Chili Sauce

Authenticity starts with the right ingredients and slow cooking. Detroit-style Coney chili is not the same as Texas chili—it’s finely crumbled, heavily seasoned, and free of beans or chunky tomatoes. The sauce should cling to the hot dog, adding flavor without making the bun soggy.

Ingredients for Detroit-Style Coney Dog chili sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
• 1/4 lb beef heart (optional, but traditional)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup water or beef broth
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1/2 tsp celery salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Instructions for Detroit-Style Coney Dog chili sauce:

1. Brown the Meat

In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, cook the ground beef and beef heart (if using). Stir frequently, breaking it up into very fine crumbles. The texture is key—use a potato masher or immersion blender for an extra-smooth consistency.

2. Build the Flavor

Once the beef is browned and no longer pink, add onions and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the tomato paste, allowing it to caramelize slightly for a deeper flavor.

3. Add Seasonings and Liquid

Mix in the chili powder, paprika, cumin, coriander, celery salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir well. Then, add the mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and water (or beef broth). Bring to a low simmer.

4. Simmer for Depth

Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken but remain spoonable. If it gets too thick, add a little more broth or water.

5. Adjust and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. The chili should have a tangy, savory, slightly spicy depth that enhances the hot dog.

How to Serve a Classic Detroit Coney Dog

To serve it the authentic way:

1. Start with a steamed bun – Soft, slightly sweet buns work best.
2. Use a quality natural-casing beef hot dog – Koegel’s or Dearborn Sausage Company are Michigan favorites.
3. Ladle on the chili sauce – A generous spoonful covering the dog.
4. Top with diced onions and yellow mustard – No ketchup! This is a Detroit rule.

Four Styles of Coney Dogs in Michigan

Michigan is home to several variations of the classic Coney Dog. Here are the four main styles found across the state:

1. Detroit Style – The most well-known, featuring a beef hot dog in a steamed bun, topped with beanless Coney chili, yellow mustard, and diced onions. Served at iconic spots like Lafayette and American Coney Island.
2. Flint Style – Features a drier, meatier topping made from ground beef heart and finely crumbled beef. Koegel’s hot dogs are commonly used, and the sauce has a more textured, almost sausage-like consistency.
3. Jackson Style – Similar to Flint but with a smoother, more chili-like sauce. Often a mix between Flint’s meatiness and Detroit’s saucier version.
4. Kalamazoo Style – A lesser-known variety that often includes a spicier, more tomato-heavy sauce, differing from the traditional Detroit and Flint styles.

Each style has its own following, and Michigan locals are passionate about their favorite.

Detroit-Style Coney Sauce: A Midwest Staple

Making Detroit Coney Dog chili sauce at home brings a taste of Michigan’s food culture to your kitchen. Whether you’re recreating a nostalgic memory or trying it for the first time, this rich, flavorful sauce is the key to an authentic Detroit Coney Dog experience.

Give it a try, and you’ll see why Detroit’s Coney Island rivalry is alive and well. Who knows—you might even pick a side between Lafayette and American!

Have you tried making your own Coney Dog chili sauce? Let us know your favorite tweaks and toppings!