Save to Pinterest 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 quickly became a family favorite the first time I made it—simple yet delicious and loved by kids and adults alike.
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
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 ½ cups (170 g)
- 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
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Step 2:
- Arrange the halved hot dog buns cut side up in the baking dish. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Step 3:
- Scatter sliced hot dogs evenly over the buns.
- Step 4:
- Sprinkle chopped onion over the hot dogs.
- Step 5:
- Pour chili evenly over the hot dog mixture.
- Step 6:
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Step 7:
- Bake uncovered for 30 35 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly and casserole is heated through.
- Step 8:
- Remove from oven let cool for 5 minutes then garnish with chives or green onions and dollops of sour cream if desired.
- Step 9:
- Serve hot.
Save to Pinterest Our family always gathers around this dish during game night, sharing laughs and seconds alike.
Required Tools
9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish Knife and cutting board Small bowl for butter Pastry brush optional
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (hot dog buns), dairy (cheese butter sour cream), possible soy (hot dogs), and possible gluten (chili depending on brand). Check all labels if serving those with allergies.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 440 calories, 26 g total fat, 31 g carbohydrates, 18 g protein.
Save to Pinterest This casserole is simple to prepare and sure to become a beloved staple in your dinner rotation.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use plant-based hot dogs in this bake?
Yes, plant-based or turkey hot dogs work well as substitutes to create a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version while maintaining the dish's flavor.
- → What type of cheese works best for this bake?
Cheddar cheese melts nicely and offers sharp flavor, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack can be used for a milder or spicier twist.
- → Is it necessary to butter the buns before baking?
Brushing the buns with melted butter adds richness and helps them brown nicely during baking, enhancing texture and taste.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
This bake can be assembled ahead and refrigerated before baking, making it convenient for planned meals or gatherings.
- → What garnishes complement the bake well?
Chopped fresh chives or green onions add brightness, while dollops of sour cream provide creamy contrast to the rich layers.