If you’re a fan of hearty comfort food and love a good mashup of all-American classics, then this Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is about to become your new obsession. Imagine everything you adore about a chili cheese dog—juicy hot dogs, fluffy buns, bold chili, and loads of melty cheese—all baked together in one irresistible dish. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that turns simple ingredients into a warm, bubbling casserole fit for easy weeknights, game day gatherings, or lazy Sundays. Whether you’re cooking for family, kids, or just want to cozy up with some cheesy goodness, this Chili Cheese Dog Casserole brings fun and flavor with every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is in its simplicity—each ingredient is chosen for maximum taste and texture, from the snappy hot dogs to the creamy, gooey cheese. These staples come together for layers of flavor and effortless appeal.
- Chili (1 can, 15 oz): Opt for your favorite—beans or no beans, spicy or mild—this forms the hearty sauce that soaks into everything.
- Hot dogs (8): Classic beef, turkey, or even plant-based all work; the key is a good snap for that traditional dog experience.
- Hot dog buns (8, split): Soft and slightly sweet, buns hold the whole casserole together—try brioche or potato buns for extra richness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and gives that signature cheese-pull on top.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup): Mozzarella adds extra stretch and creaminess, blending perfectly with the cheddar.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Just a sprinkle boosts the savory notes throughout every bite.
- Onion powder (1/4 teaspoon): This simple seasoning deepens the flavor profile without any chopping needed.
- Melted butter (1 tablespoon, optional): Brushing the buns before baking gives them a buttery, golden finish.
- Chopped green onions or parsley (optional): A pop of color and freshness to finish your casserole on a vibrant note.
How to Make Chili Cheese Dog Casserole
Step 1: Prep Your Kitchen
First things first: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s hot and ready for baking. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—this keeps cleanup easy and helps prevent sticking, making each serving slide out effortlessly.
Step 2: Layer the Chili
Spread half of your chili evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. This not only forms a flavorful base but soaks into the buns as they bake, creating a delicious, saucy bottom layer that’s absolutely crave-worthy.
Step 3: Assemble the Hot Dogs
Place a hot dog in each bun and nestle them closely together side-by-side on top of the chili. The buns might squish together a bit—don’t worry, that just means more melty goodness and less mess later!
Step 4: Add More Chili and Seasonings
Pour the remaining chili all over the tops of your assembled hot dogs. Then sprinkle the garlic powder and onion powder evenly for a savory punch that brings the dish to the next level.
Step 5: Cheese, Cheese, and More Cheese
Shower the whole casserole with your mix of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Make sure every inch is covered—that gooey, golden blanket of cheese is what makes this Chili Cheese Dog Casserole truly irresistible.
Step 6: Butter, Bake, and Bubble
If you’re feeling a little extra, brush the tops of the buns with melted butter. Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and let it bake uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to brown in glorious patches.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped green onions or parsley over the top just before serving. This last touch adds a pop of fresh flavor and color, making your Chili Cheese Dog Casserole as pretty as it is delicious.
How to Serve Chili Cheese Dog Casserole
Garnishes
Don’t skip the finishing touches! A sprinkle of chopped green onions or a handful of fresh parsley brings color and lightness to the rich, hearty casserole, balancing every bite with a splash of green. For a playful twist, try a drizzle of creamy ranch or a dash of hot sauce at the table.
Side Dishes
This dish is bold and filling on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, keep sides bright and crisp. A simple green salad with tangy vinaigrette or corn on the cob adds freshness. Crunchy coleslaw or baked sweet potato fries are also fantastic companions that offer a little contrast and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the Chili Cheese Dog Casserole into manageable, bun-sized portions and serve on a platter for family-style dining, or bake in individual ramekins for personalized portions. For parties, slice into smaller squares and secure each piece with a toothpick—makeshift sliders, guaranteed to disappear in minutes!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chili Cheese Dog Casserole can be a real treat for lunch the next day. Cool the casserole completely, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen and meld as it sits, making every bite even better.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the casserole, assemble it all the way up to the baking step. Cover tightly with foil, label it, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding an extra 10–15 minutes if needed to reheat through.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through (about 15–20 minutes for a large portion, or 2–3 minutes in the microwave for a single serving). If you want to bring back that bubbling cheese top, uncover for the last few minutes in the oven.
FAQs
Can I use homemade chili instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade chili adds a personalized touch and lets you control the spice level, thickness, and special flavors—you can even use leftover chili for extra convenience and flavor depth in your Chili Cheese Dog Casserole.
What type Main Course
Any hot dog you love works here—classic beef, turkey, chicken, or even veggie dogs are all tasty options. Choose your favorite for the best bite, and look for ones with a good, snappy casing for that classic hot dog experience.
Can I make Chili Cheese Dog Casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free hot dog buns and double check that your chili is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally free from gluten, so it’s an easy adaptation for special diets.
How spicy is this casserole?
The base recipe is family-friendly and fairly mild, especially if you stick to classic hot dogs and mild chili. If you want a spicy kick, use hot chili, add sliced jalapeños, or sprinkle on some crushed red pepper before baking.
Does the casserole get soggy?
Not if you follow the steps! The buns soak up the chili but keep plenty of structure, thanks to the cheese barrier and the initial layer of chili on the bottom. For even sturdier buns, try toasting them lightly before assembling the dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about sharing a bubbling, cheesy casserole with people you care about, and Chili Cheese Dog Casserole truly brings everyone to the table with a smile. Whether you’re reliving a childhood favorite or discovering this mashup for the first time, it’s endlessly customizable and nearly impossible to mess up. If you haven’t tried Chili Cheese Dog Casserole yet, grab those ingredients and give it a go—you’re going to love every gooey, hearty bite!
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Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this hearty Chili Cheese Dog Casserole, a delicious twist on classic chili dogs baked to perfection with gooey cheese on top. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 can (15 oz) chili (with or without beans)
- 8 hot dogs
- 8 hot dog buns (split)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional, for brushing buns)
For Garnish (optional):
- Chopped green onions or parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer: Spread half of the chili on the bottom of the dish. Assemble hot dogs in buns and place in the dish. Pour remaining chili over the hot dogs.
- Season and Cheese: Sprinkle with garlic and onion powder, then top with cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Optionally brush buns with melted butter. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with green onions or parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can use homemade or spicy chili for extra flavor.
- For a crispier texture, lightly toast the buns before assembling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chili cheese dog
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 970mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
