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 chili dog casserole on a rainy weeknight when my kids were craving something hearty. It was an instant hit and disappeared faster than I expected.
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: 2 tablespoons (optional)
- Sour cream: 2 tablespoons (optional)
Instructions
- Prep baking dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Arrange buns:
- Arrange the halved hot dog buns cut side up in the baking dish. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Layer hot dogs:
- Scatter sliced hot dogs evenly over the buns.
- Add onions:
- 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, 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 family loves digging into this casserole straight out of the oven. Sharing it together always feels comforting and brings back childhood memories.
Required Tools
Use a 9x13 inch baking dish, knife and cutting board, small bowl for melting butter, and a pastry brush for an even coating on buns.
Allergen Information
This recipe includes wheat, dairy, and possibly soy or gluten depending on the hot dogs and chili brand. Review ingredient labels for safety.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 440 calories, 26 g fat, 31 g carbohydrates, and 18 g protein.
Save This casserole is best enjoyed fresh from the oven. Let it stand briefly before serving so the cheese sets.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of buns work best for this dish?
Soft hot dog buns sliced in half provide a sturdy base and absorb flavors well when buttered and baked.
- → Can I use homemade chili instead of canned?
Yes, using homemade chili adds a personal touch and allows control over ingredients and spice level.
- → How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
Substitute beef hot dogs with plant-based or turkey alternatives and ensure your chili contains no meat.
- → What cheese can I use besides cheddar?
Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese provides different flavors and melts well for this dish.
- → How do I get a crispy top on the bake?
Baking uncovered allows the cheese to brown and bubble, creating a delicious crust on top.
- → Is this suitable for game day gatherings?
Yes, its hearty cheesy layers and familiar flavors make it a popular crowd-pleaser for casual events.