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 first made this casserole for a football party, and everyone asked for seconds. It’s now our go-to dish for both busy nights and casual get-togethers.
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Ingredients
- Beef hot dogs: 8 sliced into 1-inch pieces
- Prepared 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
- Chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional): 2 tablespoons
- Sour cream (optional): 2 tablespoons
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Instructions
- Prepare the oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Layer the buns:
- Arrange 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 30–35 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 dish is a hit with my kids, and the leftovers make an easy lunch the next day. Everyone enjoys customizing their toppings, making dinner even more fun.
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Required Tools
Use a 9x13-inch baking dish, a knife and cutting board, and a small bowl for melted butter. A pastry brush is helpful but optional.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (hot dog buns), dairy (cheese, butter, sour cream), possible soy (hot dogs), and possible gluten (chili, depending on brand).
Nutritional Information
Each serving has approximately 440 calories, 26 g total fat, 31 g carbohydrates, and 18 g protein.
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Enjoy this chili dog casserole hot out of the oven—it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Add your favorite toppings and make it your own!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute the beef hot dogs?
Yes, turkey or plant-based hot dogs can be used to create a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version.
- → What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar cheese provides great flavor and melts well, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack are excellent alternatives for a different taste profile.
- → How is the casserole assembled?
Halved hot dog buns are brushed with melted butter and garlic powder, then layered with sliced hot dogs, chopped onion, chili, and shredded cheese before baking.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, it can be assembled in advance and refrigerated before baking to save time on busy days.
- → What garnishes complement this dish?
Fresh chopped chives or green onions and dollops of sour cream enhance flavor and add freshness after baking.
