Pin it A comforting fusion of creamy macaroni and cheese, hearty chili, and classic hot dog flavors, this Chili Cheese Dog Mac & Cheese is perfect for a crowd-pleasing twist on two American favorites.
I first made this Chili Cheese Dog Mac & Cheese for a game night and everyone kept coming back for seconds. Blending nostalgic flavors with a creamy texture hits the spot for kids and adults alike.
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
- Prepare Baking Dish:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a 2-liter (2-quart) baking dish.
- Cook Macaroni:
- Cook macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Chili:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef. 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 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 Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, mix cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, chili, and sliced hot dogs together.
- 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:
- Garnish with green onions and jalapeños before serving.
Pin it This dish always sparks laughter around our table, especially with kids excited about the hot dog surprise inside. It’s a staple for movie nights and brings back fun family memories with every bite.
Pairings & Serving Ideas
Serve with a crisp salad and garlic bread, or pair with a hoppy pale ale for adults. Fruity red wine is also a tasty match for the hearty flavors.
Allergen and Nutrition Info
Per serving: 650 calories, 32 g fat, 58 g carbohydrates, 32 g protein. Contains dairy, gluten, and legumes. Always review ingredient labels for potential allergens.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave. This casserole also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Pin it With every forkful, you get cheesy goodness, chili flavor, and a playful hot dog bite. Enjoy right out of the oven for ultimate comfort.
Common Questions
- → What type of pasta is best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni works best as it holds the cheese sauce well and creates a familiar texture.
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Sharp cheddar and mozzarella provide balance, but feel free to use gouda or Monterey Jack for variation.
- → How can I make the chili spicier?
Add extra cayenne pepper or use hot sausages for a more pronounced heat.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking. Bake just before serving for best results.
- → What are suitable toppings to add?
Green onions, jalapeño slices, and extra shredded cheese enhance flavor and texture nicely.