Save A comforting and crowd-pleasing casserole combining classic chili dogs in a baked, cheesy format—perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings.
This chili dog casserole reminded me of childhood summer evenings when my family would gather around the table with steaming plates straight from the oven. It's always a hit and disappears quickly at potlucks or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
- Beef hot dogs: 8, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- Chili: 2 cups (about 450 g), homemade or canned, with or without beans
- Yellow onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Cheddar cheese: 1 ½ cups (170 g), shredded
- Hot dog buns: 6, sliced in half
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon, melted
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
- Chives or green onions: 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional)
- Sour cream: 2 tablespoons (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the casserole dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Arrange the buns:
- Lay the halved hot dog buns cut-side up in the baking dish. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Add the hot dogs:
- Scatter the sliced hot dogs evenly over the buns.
- Top with onion:
- Sprinkle the chopped onion over the hot dogs.
- Add the chili:
- Pour chili evenly over the hot dog mixture.
- Crown with cheese:
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 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 My kids always ask for seconds of this chili dog casserole, and it's the first thing disappearing when cousins come over for movie nights. It's a tradition to add everyone's favorite toppings just before serving.
Required Tools
You'll need a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, knife and cutting board, a small bowl for melting butter, and a pastry brush if you have one.
Allergen Information
This casserole contains wheat (hot dog buns), dairy (cheese, butter, sour cream), possible soy (hot dogs), and possible gluten (chili, depending on brand). Always check ingredient labels if serving to anyone with allergies.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 440 calories, 26 g total fat, 31 g carbohydrates, 18 g protein.
Save This chili dog casserole brings cozy comfort and crowd-pleasing flavors to your table. Enjoy it fresh from the oven and watch everyone dig in!
Kitchen Guide
- → What can I use instead of beef hot dogs?
Try turkey or plant-based hot dogs for a lighter or vegetarian alternative, maintaining the dish's flavor and texture.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the layers in the baking dish and refrigerate before baking. Add baking time if starting cold.
- → How do I prevent the buns from becoming soggy?
Brushing the bun halves with melted butter and baking uncovered helps keep them firm and slightly crisp.
- → What cheeses work well besides cheddar?
Monterey Jack or pepper jack provide delicious variations, adding mild or spicy notes.
- → Is this dish suitable for serving at gatherings?
Absolutely. Its hearty, easy-to-serve nature makes it ideal for game day or casual get-togethers.
- → Can I add vegetables to this bake?
Yes, diced onions are included, but bell peppers or jalapeños can be added for extra flavor and texture.