Save A comforting and crowd-pleasing casserole combining classic chili dogs in a baked, cheesy format, perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings.
I remember making this for a weekend game night and everyone went for second helpings. The cheesy topping and aromatic chili filled the kitchen with irresistible flavors that always get people excited for dinner.
Ingredients
- Beef hot dogs: 8, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- Prepared chili: 2 cups (about 450 g), homemade or canned
- Yellow onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 ½ cups (170 g)
- Hot dog buns: 6, sliced in half
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon, melted
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
- Chopped fresh chives or green onions: 2 tablespoons (optional)
- Sour cream: 2 tablespoons (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare oven and dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Arrange buns:
- Place the halved hot dog buns cut-side up in the baking dish. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Add hot dogs:
- Scatter sliced hot dogs evenly over the buns.
- Add onion:
- Sprinkle chopped onion over the hot dogs.
- Add chili:
- Pour chili evenly over the hot dog mixture.
- Add cheese:
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly and casserole is heated through.
- Garnish and serve:
- Remove from oven, let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with chives or green onions and dollops of sour cream if desired. Serve hot.
Save This casserole quickly became a family favorite, especially on busy weeknights when everyone wants something warm and satisfying with minimal fuss.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli to round out the meal.
Make Ahead Tips
Assemble the casserole ahead, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
Ingredient Swaps
Try Monterey Jack cheese or pepper jack for a twist, and substitute whole wheat buns for extra fiber.
Save Enjoy the cheesy comfort of chili dog casserole any night you crave easy, hearty fare. It's sure to be a hit for all ages.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheeses work well for a milder or spicier twist.
- → What’s the best way to prepare the hot dog buns?
Slice buns in half, place cut side up, brush with melted butter and sprinkle garlic powder before layering.
- → Can I substitute the beef hot dogs?
Turkey or plant-based hot dogs are great alternatives for lighter or meat-free options.
- → How long should I bake the dish?
Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes at 375°F until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- → Are there any suggested garnishes?
Chopped fresh chives or green onions along with dollops of sour cream enhance flavor and presentation.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Contains wheat in the buns and possible gluten in the chili, so substitutions are needed for gluten-free.