Save A comforting fusion of creamy macaroni and cheese, hearty chili, and classic hot dog flavors—perfect for a crowd-pleasing twist on two American favorites.
I remember the first time I brought this Chili Cheese Dog Mac & Cheese to a potluck. It was gone before I even had a chance to snag a plate. Everyone loved how it fused the nostalgia of childhood favorites with the hearty satisfaction of a baked casserole.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) elbow macaroni
- Cheese Sauce: 2 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 480 ml (2 cups) whole milk, 200 g (2 cups) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 100 g (1 cup) shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Chili: 225 g (1/2 lb) ground beef, 1/2 medium onion (finely chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional), 240 ml (1 cup) canned diced tomatoes, 120 ml (1/2 cup) canned kidney beans (drained and rinsed), salt and pepper (to taste)
- Hot Dogs: 4 classic hot dogs (sliced into 1 cm (1/2 inch) pieces)
- Toppings (optional): 2 green onions (thinly sliced), jalapeño slices, extra shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Dish:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a 2-liter (2-quart) baking dish.
- Cook the Macaroni:
- Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Chili:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in garlic, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne. Cook for 1 minute. Add diced tomatoes and kidney beans. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk. Simmer until thickened, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Combine Components:
- Combine cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, chili, and sliced hot dogs in a large bowl. Mix well.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish. Top with extra cheese if desired. Bake for 15 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with green onions and jalapeños before serving.
Save My kids always ask for seconds whenever I make this, and it has even become a birthday tradition in our home. It is perfect for feeding a hungry crowd during game day or family gatherings.
Required Tools
Large pot, skillet, saucepan, baking dish, whisk, and mixing bowl
Allergen Information
Contains milk, cheese (dairy), wheat (gluten), and hot dogs (may contain soy, wheat, and other allergens). Contains beans. Always check processed ingredients for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 650, Total Fat: 32 g, Carbohydrates: 58 g, Protein: 32 g
Save This is comfort food taken to the next level. Serve piping hot and watch it disappear in minutes.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I prepare the cheese sauce in advance?
Yes, the cheese sauce can be made ahead and kept warm or refrigerated. Reheat gently while stirring before combining.
- → What type of pasta works best in this dish?
Elbow macaroni is ideal for holding the cheese sauce and chili, but small shells or cavatappi can also be used.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Control heat by adjusting cayenne pepper and jalapeño amounts, or choosing mild or spicy hot dogs.
- → Is it possible to make a vegetarian version?
Replace ground beef with vegetarian chili and use plant-based hot dogs to keep the hearty texture without meat.
- → What toppings complement this dish well?
Green onions, extra shredded cheddar, and jalapeño slices add fresh and spicy flavor contrasts.