This simple Clare and Carl’s Michigan Sauce will make your hot dog taste amazing and extra special. It’s a great way to take your hot dog to the next level!

As a hot dog fan, I can’t enjoy a hot dog without filling it with Clare and Carl’s Michigan Sauce. This Michigan Sauce recipe is super flavorful and easy to make, made of ground beef, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. Keep in mind that this recipe is customizable; you can add more spices for extra heat or a bit of sweetness if you like.

This Clare and Carl’s Michigan Sauce is not only for hot dog filling, but I love to use it also as a topping for burgers and a dip for fries.

Personally, I find this sauce incredibly versatile and delicious, adding a rich and tangy kick to any dish I pair it with. I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do.

What is Clare and Carl’s Michigan Sauce?

Clare and Carl’s Michigan Sauce is a savory, meat-based sauce traditionally served over hot dogs, a classic staple of the Michigan food scene. Known for its rich flavor and hearty texture, it typically includes ground beef, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices.

This sauce adds a delicious, tangy kick to various dishes, making it a beloved choice for hot dog lovers and a signature item in Michigan cuisine.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup yellow mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

How to make Clare and Carl’s Michigan Sauce

Step 1:

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2:

Stir in the ketchup, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 3:

Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and the flavors should meld together.

Step 4:

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.

Tips for Perfect Michigan Sauce

• Ensure the ground beef is well-browned before adding the other ingredients. This enhances the depth of flavor.

• Balance the sweetness and tanginess to your taste. Add more brown sugar for a sweeter sauce or more vinegar for a tangier one.

• Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spiciness. You can omit it for a milder sauce or add more for extra heat.

• Let the sauce simmer on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together. This helps in developing a rich and cohesive taste.

• If the sauce is too thick, add a little water or beef broth to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer.

How to use Clare and Carl’s Michigan Sauce

To use your Clare and Carl’s Michigan Sauce, I recommend pairing it with hot dogs for a classic experience. Simply grill or boil your hot dogs, then place them in buns and generously top with the Michigan sauce.

If you prefer, you can also use the sauce as a topping for burgers, adding a unique and flavorful twist. For more variety, try it as a chili base over fries or nachos, creating a delicious and hearty snack. Additionally, this sauce works well as a topping for baked potatoes or mixed into a pasta dish for a savory meal.

How to store Michigan Sauce

To store Clare and Carl’s Michigan Sauce, let it cool to room temperature first. Then, transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce in freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags for up to three months.

When you’re ready to use it, thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.

FAQ

How spicy is Clare and Carl’s Michigan Sauce?

The spice level can vary, but it’s generally mild. You can adjust the spiciness by adding more or less chili powder or hot sauce to taste.

Can I make Clare and Carl’s Michigan Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage.

Is Michigan Sauce gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free if you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and ensure all other ingredients are free of gluten.

Can I make a vegetarian version of Michigan Sauce?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or lentils for a vegetarian version.

How do I thicken Michigan Sauce if it’s too thin?

You can let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to evaporate excess liquid, or you can add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.

Can I double the recipe for a large crowd?

You can double or even triple the recipe to serve a larger group. Just make sure you have a large enough pot to accommodate the increased volume.

Conclusion

Clare and Carl’s Michigan Sauce is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal. Its rich, savory flavor makes it a perfect topping for hot dogs, burgers, and more. Easy to make and store, this sauce is a great choice for both casual meals and larger gatherings.

Clare and Carl’s Michigan Sauce

Recipe by Wasian CookeryCourse: SauceCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Total time

40

minutes

This simple Clare and Carl’s Michigan Sauce will make your hot dog taste amazing and extra special. It’s a great way to take your hot dog to the next level!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup ketchup

• 1/4 cup yellow mustard

• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess fat if needed.
• Stir in the ketchup, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
• Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken and the flavors should meld together.
• Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve the Michigan sauce hot over hot dogs, hamburgers, or as a topping for your favorite dishes.

Notes

• Ensure the ground beef is well-browned before adding the other ingredients. This enhances the depth of flavor.
• Balance the sweetness and tanginess to your taste. Add more brown sugar for a sweeter sauce or more vinegar for a tangier one.