Save to Pinterest A comforting and crowd-pleasing casserole combining classic chili dogs in a baked, cheesy format—perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings.
I first tried making this casserole for a family game night, and it quickly became a favorite. Everyone loved how all the classic chili dog flavors came together in one easy dish.
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: 2 tablespoons (optional)
- Sour cream: 2 tablespoons (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Arrange the buns:
- Place halved hot dog buns cut-side up in the baking dish. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Add the hot dogs and onion:
- Scatter sliced hot dogs evenly over the buns and top with chopped onion.
- Add chili and cheese:
- Pour chili 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 sour cream if desired. Serve hot.
Save to Pinterest My kids love helping layer the buns and hot dogs before baking—it has become a fun family tradition before movie night.
Required Tools
Basic tools needed include a 9x13-inch baking dish, knife, cutting board, small bowl for the melted butter, and a pastry brush if you have one.
Allergen Information
This dish contains wheat, dairy, and possible soy or gluten, depending on the brands used. Always check labels for allergies.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has about 440 calories, 26 g total fat, 31 g carbohydrates, and 18 g protein.
Save to Pinterest Serve this chili dog casserole hot from the oven, and enjoy the cheesy layers with favorite toppings. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser on any casual night.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese works best in this dish?
Cheddar cheese melts beautifully and adds a sharp flavor, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack are great alternatives for a different taste profile.
- → Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Yes, swapping traditional hot dogs for plant-based or turkey hot dogs makes a lighter or vegetarian-friendly version without compromising texture.
- → How should the hot dog buns be prepared?
Buns are sliced in half and brushed with melted butter and garlic powder before layering ingredients, which helps them crisp and absorb flavors during baking.
- → What are good garnishes to add after baking?
Chopped fresh chives or green onions add brightness, and dollops of sour cream provide creamy contrast to the baked layers.
- → Is this dish suitable for freezing?
While it can be frozen before baking, texture may change slightly. It's best to bake fresh for optimal flavor and consistency.
- → What sides complement this hearty dish?
A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables balance the rich and savory flavors nicely, making the meal more rounded and fresh.