Pin it A comforting and crowd-pleasing casserole combining classic chili dogs in a baked, cheesy format—perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings.
This casserole quickly became a family favorite because of its nostalgic flavor and ease of making.
Ingredients
- Beef hot dogs: 8 beef hot dogs 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
- 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 to 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.
Pin it My family loves gathering around the table for this hearty dish especially during game days or casual dinners.
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).
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 440 calories, 26 g total fat, 31 g carbohydrates, 18 g protein.
Pin it This casserole is easy to customize and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Common Questions
- → Can I use homemade chili instead of canned?
Yes, homemade chili adds a fresh and customizable flavor to the dish. Choose your preferred ingredients to suit your taste.
- → What type of cheese works best for melting?
Cheddar cheese melts well and provides a sharp flavor, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack are great alternatives for creaminess and spice.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely. Swap hot dogs for plant-based alternatives and use chili without meat for a delicious vegetarian-friendly version.
- → How can I prevent the buns from getting soggy during baking?
Brushing the buns with melted butter before layering ingredients helps keep them crisp and flavorful during baking.
- → What sides pair well with this casserole?
A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables balance the rich flavors and add a light contrast to this hearty dish.