Easy Chili Hot Dog Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a fun, flavorful, and super easy meal to whip up for a family dinner or game day, this Easy Chili Hot Dog Casserole is a must-try! Combining classic chili and hot dogs with gooey melted cheese, this dish is a comforting and satisfying way to enjoy all the flavors of a chili dog in a simple, baked casserole form. It's perfect for when you're craving something indulgent and hearty. Keep reading to learn how to make this delicious casserole, along with some tips, variations, and serving suggestions!

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What is Chili Hot Dog Casserole?

Chili Hot Dog Casserole takes the flavors of a classic chili dog—juicy hot dogs, hearty chili, melty cheese—and transforms them into a baked casserole that's easy to serve and perfect for feeding a crowd. The hot dogs are baked in a layer of chili, topped with cheese and crispy tater tots, biscuits, or even cornmeal batter for a crunchy topping. It’s a great comfort food dish that combines the best of hot dogs and chili, all in one pan.

Ingredients List for Chili Hot Dog Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting, cheesy chili dog casserole:

For the Casserole:

• 8 hot dogs: You can use beef, pork, or turkey hot dogs, whichever you prefer.
• 8 hot dog buns: Or you can use soft dinner rolls if you want a fluffier base.
• 2 cans (15 oz each) chili: Use your favorite canned chili or make your own homemade chili if you have time.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Or use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for extra flavor.
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard: Adds a bit of tang and enhances the classic hot dog flavor (optional).
• ¼ cup diced onions: For topping (optional).
• 1 tablespoon butter: For toasting the buns.

For Optional Toppings:

• Sour cream: Adds creaminess.
• Chopped green onions: For freshness and color.
• Sliced jalapeños: For heat.
• Chopped cilantro: For garnish.
• Pickled relish or pickles: Adds tangy crunch.

Substitutions and Variations

This Chili Hot Dog Casserole recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are a few ways you can switch things up:

• Hot dogs: You can use beef, turkey, chicken, or even plant-based hot dogs for a vegetarian option.
• Chili: You can use store-bought canned chili, or you can make your own homemade chili using ground beef, turkey, or even a vegetarian bean-based chili.
• Bun alternatives: If you prefer not to use hot dog buns, you can replace them with soft dinner rolls, biscuits, or even crescent roll dough to create a breaded base.
• Crunchy topping: Add a layer of tater tots, corn chips, or even a cornbread topping on top of the chili for a crunchy, crispy finish.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to make this Chili Hot Dog Casserole? Follow these simple steps!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or casserole dish with non-stick spray or butter.

Step 2: Toast the Buns (Optional)

• In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Split the hot dog buns in half and toast them in the skillet until golden brown. This step is optional but adds a delicious crispy texture to the casserole.

Step 3: Layer the Buns and Hot Dogs

• Line the bottom of your prepared baking dish with the toasted buns. Arrange the hot dogs over the buns. You can either leave the hot dogs whole or slice them in half lengthwise, depending on how you prefer your hot dogs to sit in the casserole.

Step 4: Add the Chili

• Pour the canned chili evenly over the hot dogs and buns, making sure everything is well-covered. Spread the chili with a spatula to distribute it evenly.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

• Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the chili. Make sure the entire dish is covered with a good layer of cheese for that melty, gooey goodness.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

• Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown around the edges.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

• Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Top with optional diced onions, chopped green onions, jalapeños, or cilantro. Serve the casserole in slices, and enjoy with additional toppings like sour cream or pickled relish.

How to Cook Chili Hot Dog Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick overview of the key steps to make sure your chili hot dog casserole turns out perfect every time:

1. Toast the buns (optional): Toasting the buns adds texture and flavor.
2. Layer the buns and hot dogs: Arrange the buns and hot dogs in the baking dish.
3. Top with chili: Pour chili over the hot dogs and spread evenly.
4. Add the cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top.
5. Bake until bubbly: Bake the casserole until the cheese is melted and golden.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not toasting the buns: Toasting the buns prevents them from getting soggy under the chili and hot dogs, so don’t skip this step if you prefer a crispier texture.
• Overloading the casserole: Be mindful of the proportions. Adding too much chili can make the casserole too soupy, while adding too many toppings might prevent the cheese from melting evenly.
• Not enough cheese: Don’t skimp on the cheese! The gooey, melted cheese is one of the best parts of the dish, so make sure you use enough to cover the entire surface.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This Chili Hot Dog Casserole is already packed with flavor, but how you serve and garnish it can elevate it even further. Here are some serving and presentation ideas:

How to Serve Chili Hot Dog Casserole

• With classic sides: Serve this casserole with BBQ favorites like coleslaw, potato salad, or corn on the cob for a complete meal.
• With crunchy toppings: Add a bowl of crushed tortilla chips, Fritos, or crackers on the side for guests to sprinkle over their portion for an extra crunch.
• As party food: This casserole makes great party food. Serve it in individual portions with plastic utensils for easy cleanup and fun, casual dining.

Presentation Ideas for Chili Hot Dog Casserole

• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve in cast iron: For a rustic, fun presentation, bake and serve the casserole in a cast-iron skillet.
• Top with jalapeños: Add sliced fresh jalapeños or pickled jalapeños on top for a burst of flavor and color.

Chili Hot Dog Casserole Recipe Tips

• Customize the chili: You can spice up the canned chili with a few dashes of hot sauce or by stirring in some ground beef or ground turkey if you want to bulk it up.
• Use crescent roll dough: Instead of hot dog buns, you can use crescent roll dough as the base of the casserole. Lay it in the bottom of the baking dish, add hot dogs, chili, and cheese, and bake until golden.
• Make it ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake it when ready. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use homemade chili for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! If you have homemade chili on hand, feel free to use it in place of canned chili for even more flavor.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Yes! While cheddar is classic, you can use any cheese you like—try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for some added spice.

Q: Can I freeze chili hot dog casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze this casserole! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake until heated through.

Q: Can I add a crunchy topping?
A: Definitely! You can add a layer of tater tots, Fritos, or crushed tortilla chips on top before baking for an extra crispy, crunchy texture.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Conclusion

This Easy Chili Hot Dog Casserole is the perfect way to enjoy all the delicious flavors

of a chili dog in a convenient, baked form. With layers of juicy hot dogs, hearty chili, melty cheese, and optional crunchy toppings, this casserole is a comfort food dream come true. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner, at a casual party, or for game day, this dish is sure to be a hit. Try it today for a fun, flavorful meal that’s as easy to make as it is to devour!

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