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 made this Chili Dog Casserole for a family movie night, and everyone went back for seconds. It quickly became a new favorite that we look forward to on chilly evenings or whenever we want fun, nostalgic comfort food.
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 (optional): 2 tablespoons
- Sour cream (optional): 2 tablespoons
Instructions
- Prepare baking dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Arrange buns:
- Place the halved hot dog buns cut-side up in the baking dish. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Add hot dogs and onion:
- Scatter the sliced hot dogs evenly over the buns, then sprinkle with chopped onion.
- Add chili and cheese:
- Pour chili evenly over the hot dog mixture, then top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and casserole is heated through.
- Finish 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 When I served this at our family get-together, the kids couldn't wait to dig in—and the adults asked for the recipe. It's a meal that always brings everyone together at the table with smiles.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad or simple steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Leftovers are great reheated for lunch the next day.
Ingredient Swaps
Try using turkey or plant-based hot dogs for a lighter or vegetarian twist. You can also swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Save Chili Dog Casserole is pure comfort food that feeds a crowd and makes weeknight dinner easy. Enjoy every cheesy, hearty bite!
Recipe Guide
- → Can I substitute the beef hot dogs?
Yes, turkey or plant-based hot dogs work well and offer lighter or vegetarian options while maintaining flavor.
- → What type of cheese is recommended?
Cheddar cheese melts well and adds a sharp taste, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack provide tasty alternatives.
- → How do I prevent the buns from becoming soggy?
Brushing the bun halves with melted butter before layering helps create a barrier, preserving texture during baking.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the layers and refrigerate before baking to save time; just add baking time if chilled.
- → What garnishes enhance the dish?
Chopped fresh chives or green onions add a mild bite, while sour cream provides a cool, creamy contrast.