If you love the nostalgic flavor of classic hot dogs but crave the soul-warming comfort of a hearty casserole, Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is destined to be your new weeknight favorite. Imagine perfectly toasted buns, meaty hot dogs, boatloads of rich, savory chili, and two melty cheeses blanketing the whole dish in bubbling, golden goodness—all baked in one pan. This playful mash-up turns an all-American staple into a cozy family meal that’s equal parts fun and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a game day crowd or just want to perk up an ordinary Tuesday, this Chili Cheese Dog Casserole delivers unbeatable flavor and oodles of smiles, every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Pulling together this Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is a breeze, thanks to a handful of tried-and-true ingredients you probably already love. Each element brings something unique—flavor, color, gooeyness, or crunch—making every bite count.
- Beef hot dogs: Choose your favorite brand—the juiciness of these is key to a truly meaty, satisfying casserole.
- Hot dog buns (split): Soft, pillowy buns soak up the chili and keep everything perfectly nestled together as they toast up around the edges.
- Canned chili (with or without beans): This shortcut brings tons of savory depth and can be swapped for homemade if you’re feeling ambitious.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Classic sharpness and that familiar golden hue make cheddar the star melting cheese here.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds stringy, stretchy goodness and helps temper the punch of the cheddar.
- Diced red onion (optional): For a pop of color and bite, sprinkle these on top—they add a refreshing crunch.
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish): A splash of green finishes your casserole with a bright, appetizing flourish.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Essential for easy clean-up and preventing any sticky bun mishaps.
How to Make Chili Cheese Dog Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a sturdy 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a quick coating of nonstick spray. This little step ensures that every cheesy edge releases cleanly—and makes clean up a cinch!
Step 2: Assemble the Hot Dogs and Buns
Lay out your eight split buns and gently nestle in each beef hot dog. Line them up snugly, side-by-side, inside your prepared baking dish. This keeps the buns upright and ready to catch every bit of chili and cheese you’re about to add.
Step 3: Add the Chili
Using a generous spoon, ladle the canned chili evenly over all the hot dogs. The chili will seep into the buns and nuzzle against the hot dogs, infusing every layer with rich, beefy flavor. Go for a smooth surface so every bun is cloaked in chili goodness.
Step 4: Cheese Time!
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly across the chili-topped hot dogs, then follow with the mozzarella. The mix of cheeses guarantees an irresistibly gooey, bubbling top once baked. If you like things super cheesy, feel free to add a bit more of either cheese.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly
Pop the dish onto your center oven rack and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes. You’re looking for melted, golden cheeses and buns that are toasted just at the edges. If you want a little extra crispiness, broil for the last minute or so—but keep a close eye!
Step 6: Add Fresh Toppings and Serve
Once out of the oven, finish your Chili Cheese Dog Casserole with a scatter of diced red onion and a shower of fresh parsley or green onions. These final touches brighten things up and add a fresh bite. Serve piping hot and watch smiles appear instantly!
How to Serve Chili Cheese Dog Casserole
Garnishes
A flourish of garnishes can turn your Chili Cheese Dog Casserole from weeknight simple to party-worthy. Go with a sprinkle of diced red onion and chopped parsley or green onions for color and crunch. If you’re feeling extra playful, offer jalapeño slices or a drizzle of yellow mustard on the side for those who crave a little kick.
Side Dishes
This casserole truly shines alongside classic, crowd-pleasing sides. Try a heap of creamy coleslaw for a cool, tangy contrast, crispy fries for dipping, or a crisp green salad to lighten the meal. Each one rounds out the flavors and keeps things balanced on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Switch things up by scooping portions into individual ramekins for easy, party-ready servings. For little kiddos (or big kids at heart), slice the hot dogs and buns before assembling for a scoopable, fork-friendly twist. You can even set up a toppings bar so everyone can personalize their Chili Cheese Dog Casserole with their favorites!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got extra casserole? No worries! Cool leftovers to room temperature and cover your baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions into airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to three days—the flavors actually meld and improve over time, making your next meal even more delicious.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze this Chili Cheese Dog Casserole for those moments when only comfort food will do. Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic and foil or portion into freezer-safe containers. It’ll be ready to reheat for up to two months—perfect for meal prep or last-minute cravings.
Reheating
To warm through leftovers, bake covered in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15–20 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melty again. For a quick fix, popping a portion in the microwave works too—just use a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely to retain moisture.
FAQs
Can I make Chili Cheese Dog Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, just add 5–10 minutes to the baking time straight from the fridge, until everything is hot and bubbly.
What’s the best chili to use?
You can use your favorite canned chili, whether you prefer with beans, without beans, spicy, or mild. Homemade chili also works beautifully if you have it on hand—the flavors will be even more robust and customizable.
Can I use different cheeses?
Definitely! Pepper jack, Monterey jack, or even a little smoked gouda can bring a new twist. Just make sure to use a good melting cheese so you end up with that signature bubbly, gooey topping Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is known for.
How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?
Lining up the buns snugly in the baking dish and adding chili just before baking keeps things toasty instead of soggy. If you like extra crunch, toast the buns briefly before assembling, or add an extra layer of cheese to help shield the bread.
Can I add more toppings inside the casserole?
Of course! Spread a little mustard, relish, or even sautéed peppers inside each bun before adding the hot dogs for more flavor and fun textures. It’s a great way to personalize your Chili Cheese Dog Casserole to suit every craving.
Final Thoughts
If you’re longing for something playful, cozy, and seriously crave-worthy, whip up this Chili Cheese Dog Casserole and get ready for raves. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating your family, it’s pure comfort in every cheesy, chili-packed bite—so go ahead, give it a try and savor the smiles around your table!
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Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make twist on classic hot dogs. Baked to perfection with chili and gooey cheeses, it’s a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 8 beef hot dogs
- 8 hot dog buns (split)
- 2 cups canned chili (with or without beans)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup diced red onion (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)
- nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Prepare hot dogs: Place each hot dog in a bun and line them up side-by-side in the prepared baking dish. Spoon chili evenly over the top of each hot dog.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the chili.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the buns are lightly toasted around the edges.
- Finish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with diced red onion and fresh parsley or green onions. Serve hot with a side of coleslaw, fries, or a simple salad.
Notes
- Use your favorite canned or homemade chili.
- For extra flavor, spread a thin layer of mustard or relish inside the buns before adding hot dogs.
- You can also make this with sliced hot dogs and chopped buns for a more scoopable version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chili cheese dog
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 970 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
