We couldn't resist taking this ballpark favorite and transforming it into a fun weeknight meal. With leftover chili from earlier in the week, just top your hot dogs with cheddar cheese and chopped onions for an authentic chili dog. Smarts: Chili can separate a bit in the fridge. Be sure to drain off any excess liquid before adding the chili to your hot dogs.
Toss green beans with oil (portion for beans), chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
Heat a grill pan or large skillet over medium heat. Add green beans to heated pan and saute to get them started cooking. Cover the pan with a lid (it’s okay if it doesn’t fit tightly over the pan you’re using) and steam green beans, shaking the pan frequently, until green beans are tender, 4 to 5 minutes. Set green beans aside and squeeze lemon juice over top. Cover them to keep warm.
Return pan / skillet to medium-high heat and add oil (portion for hot dogs). Add hot dogs and cook on all sides until brown in spots and heated through, 5 to 7 minutes.
When hot dogs are nearly finished, reheat leftover chili in the microwave. Drain off as much liquid from the chili as possible.
Toast hot dog buns.
Fill buns with hot dogs. Set out chili, cheese, and onions so that you can top the dogs as you’d like. Enjoy green beans on the side.