Saucy, Savory, and Loaded with Flavor—A Michigan Classic Made Clean

If you've never had a Detroit Coney dog, you're in for a treat. It’s not your average hot dog—it’s topped with a rich, spiced beef chili sauce, yellow mustard, and diced onions, all nestled in a warm bun. It’s messy, indulgent, and totally satisfying.

But unlike traditional diner versions, this recipe keeps things clean with real-food ingredients, grass-fed beef, and a simple, homemade Coney sauce that doesn’t come from a can. I started making this when my husband—born and raised in Michigan—was missing “home food,” and it’s become a fun weekend favorite ever since.

Perfect for game day, cookouts, or a cozy night in with comfort food vibes.

Ingredients

For the Coney Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• ½ small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ lb grass-fed ground beef

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard

• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• ¼ cup water or beef broth (to thin, if needed)

For the Hot Dogs:

• 4 all-beef, nitrate-free hot dogs

• 4 whole grain or gluten-free hot dog buns

• Yellow mustard

• Diced white onion (for topping)

Instructions

1. Make the Coney Sauce: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft (3–4 minutes), then stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.

2. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste, mustard, vinegar, and spices. Simmer for 8–10 minutes, adding water or broth to thin if needed. Taste and adjust seasoning.

3. Cook the Hot Dogs: Grill, pan-sear, or steam the hot dogs until heated through and nicely browned.

4. Assemble the Dogs: Place hot dogs in buns. Spoon a generous amount of Coney sauce over each, then top with a squiggle of yellow mustard and a sprinkle of diced onion.

5. Serve: Eat immediately while warm—preferably with extra napkins!

Sarah’s Comfort Food Tips

• Make It Lighter: Use ground turkey for the sauce and swap buns for lettuce wraps.

• Prep Ahead: Make the Coney sauce ahead and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Kids Love It: Let little ones build their own dogs—great for family dinners or BBQ nights.

• Crispy Trick: Lightly toast your buns for an extra layer of texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Detroit Coney dogs are nostalgic, flavorful, and way easier to make than you’d expect. With clean, real ingredients and bold, savory flavor, they’re the perfect comfort food without the guilt.

Once you try them, they might just earn a spot in your weekend rotation.

Nutrition (Per Serving – 1 Coney dog):
Calories: 390
Protein: 20g
Fat: 22g
Carbs: 26g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g