Print

Chili Cheese Dog Casserole

Chili Cheese Dog Casserole
Print Recipe

Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is an easy, comforting, and family-friendly one-dish meal that combines savory chili, melty cheddar and mozzarella cheese, and tender hot dogs baked over soft bread cubes or buns. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this flexible casserole is quick to prepare, customizable to your taste and dietary preferences, and excellent for leftovers and meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 6–8 Hot Dogs, sliced into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups Canned Chili (with or without beans)
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheese (a blend of cheddar and mozzarella recommended)
  • 4–5 Hot Dog Buns or equivalent Bread Cubes

Optional Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup Diced Onions (optional)
  • Mustard or Ketchup, for drizzling or mixing
  • Jalapeños or Hot Sauce (for spicy variation)
  • Crushed Potato Chips or Fried Onions (for crunchy topping)
  • Diced Bell Peppers, Corn, or Black Beans (extra veggies)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the hot dogs into bite-sized pieces and shred the cheese. If using onions or other vegetables, chop them finely to ensure even distribution throughout the casserole.
  2. Layer the Base: Grease a casserole dish and spread sliced or cubed hot dog buns evenly across the bottom. This base soaks up the chili and cheese flavors while baking.
  3. Add the Chili and Hot Dogs: Pour the canned chili evenly over the bread cubes, then scatter the sliced hot dogs across the dish to layer the main hearty ingredients.
  4. Top with Cheese and Optional Toppings: Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top. Add any optional ingredients such as diced onions, jalapeños, or crunchy toppings like crushed potato chips for added texture and flavor.
  5. Bake Until Bubbly: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and edges begin to turn golden and crispy.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for a better melt and to avoid clumping.
  • If your canned chili is very liquidy, drain some excess moisture to prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
  • Day-old or slightly stale hot dog buns work best as they absorb flavors without falling apart.
  • Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the casserole; cheese should be gooey, and bread tender.
  • Sprinkle fresh herbs like chopped parsley or green onions before serving to brighten both the look and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: chili cheese dog casserole, hot dog casserole, comfort food, family dinner, easy casserole, cheesy casserole, American recipe, baked hot dogs

Find it online: https://recipesbykaeli.com/chili-cheese-dog-casserole/