Pin A comforting and crowd-pleasing casserole combining classic chili dogs in a baked, cheesy format—perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings.
I made this Chili Dog Casserole for our latest family movie night, and it disappeared faster than I could set out plates. The cheesy, savory flavors brought everyone back for second helpings!
Ingredients
- Beef hot dogs: 8 hot dogs, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- Chili: 2 cups (about 450 g) prepared chili (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 (optional): 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Sour cream (optional): 2 tablespoons
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare 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.
- 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.
- Finish & 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.
Pin Growing up, my siblings and I would compete for the cheesiest piece of casseroles like this one. Fast forward, it's a hit with my own kids whenever comfort food is called for!
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with a green salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal.
Ingredient Swaps
Try turkey or plant-based hot dogs for a lighter or vegetarian alternative, or swap cheddar with Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers keep well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Pin This Chili Dog Casserole brings nostalgic flavors and hearty comfort to your table. Leftovers make excellent lunches the next day!
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, swapping cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese adds unique flavors and melts beautifully in this dish.
- → Is it possible to make a vegetarian version?
Absolutely, substitute beef hot dogs with plant-based or turkey alternatives to tailor the dish to vegetarian preferences.
- → What type of buns work best?
Soft hot dog buns sliced in half hold the layers well and absorb the buttery flavors during baking.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- → Can additional toppings be added?
Yes, toppings like chopped fresh chives, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream enhance flavor and presentation.
