Name: Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 beef hot dogs; 8 hot dog buns; 2 cans (15 oz each) chili with beans; 2 tablespoons ketchup; 1 tablespoon yellow mustard; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup chopped onion; 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re after a dinner that’s both nostalgic and crowd-pleasing, look no further than this irresistible Chili Cheese Dog Casserole. It’s like your favorite ballpark classic met the comfort of a bubbling, cheesy bake — and the results are magical. With juicy hot dogs nestled in soft buns, rich chili, and a golden blanket of melty cheddar, this dish brings together all the best flavors and textures of a classic chili cheese dog in a single, easy-to-make casserole. Whether you’re feeding picky kids, gameday friends, or just treating yourself to a cozy weeknight supper, Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is about to become a go-to in your recipe collection.

Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of straightforward ingredients to bring this Chili Cheese Dog Casserole to life, but don’t underestimate their power. Each one plays an essential part — from the snap of the hot dog and fluffy buns, to the rust-red chili and a storm of gooey cheese crowning the top.

Beef hot dogs (8): The star of the casserole, bringing that classic, savory bite.
Hot dog buns (8): Soft and pillowy, these cradle the hot dogs and soak up all the saucy goodness.
Canned chili with beans (2 cans, 15 oz each): Use your favorite for convenience and flavor-packed results.
Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): For that oozy, melty topping everyone loves.
Chopped onion (1/2 cup): Adds zing and a hint of sweetness to balance the richness.
Sliced jalapeños (1/4 cup, optional): For a pop of heat — add as much or as little as your spice-loving heart desires.
Ketchup (2 tablespoons): Gives the chili base a little tangy sweetness.
Yellow mustard (1 tablespoon): Complements the ketchup with a classic, zesty contrast.
Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Boosts the flavor and warmth of the casserole’s chili layer.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): For a subtle layer of savory complexity.
Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons, for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish right before serving.

How to Make Chili Cheese Dog Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake. Give a 9×13-inch baking dish a light coating of nonstick spray or a slick of butter. This ensures easy cleanup and keeps your Chili Cheese Dog Casserole from sticking.

Step 2: Arrange the Buns and Hot Dogs

Place the hot dog buns side by side in your baking dish, cut side up — treat it like a little bed for each dog. Lay one hot dog in each bun, nestling it right in the center. This arrangement helps each serving stay tidy and full of that signature chili dog charm.

Step 3: Mix the Flavor-Packed Chili Layer

In a medium bowl, combine the canned chili with beans, ketchup, yellow mustard, chili powder, and garlic powder. Give it a good stir so all the spices and condiments melt into the chili evenly. This simple combo adds depth and real hot dog stand flavor to the casserole.

Step 4: Layer the Chili Mixture Over the Dogs

Spoon the chili mixture generously over each hot dog and bun. Make sure to cover them well — this is where all the saucy, savory goodness comes in! Don’t worry if the buns get a little soggy; that soft, chili-soaked bread is pure comfort food.

Step 5: Pile on the Toppings

Sprinkle half of the chopped onion and half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the chili layer. This gives the casserole an extra savoriness and kick of cheese that melts into every crevice as it bakes.

Step 6: Cover and Bake

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil, trapping steam so everything cooks through gently. Bake for 20 minutes — the cheese underneath will be gooey and the hot dogs piping hot.

Step 7: Final Cheese Boost and Finish Baking

After 20 minutes, carefully remove the foil and scatter the remaining cheddar cheese across the top. Put the casserole back in the oven, uncovered, for another 10 minutes. Watch as the cheese bubbles and browns, turning irresistible golden and melty.

Step 8: Cool, Garnish, and Serve

Once baked, let your Chili Cheese Dog Casserole rest for about 5 minutes — this helps it firm up for easier serving. Just before digging in, shower with fresh parsley and (if you like a little heat) a handful of sliced jalapeños for color and zing.

How to Serve Chili Cheese Dog Casserole

Garnishes

Add the final flourish with a scattering of fresh parsley and jalapeño slices for color and brightness. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of sour cream or a few pickled red onions can take the presentation — and flavor — up another notch.

Side Dishes

This casserole already stands tall as a main event, but it plays wonderfully with simple, classic sides. Try serving with crispy potato chips, sweet corn on the cob, or a cool, crunchy slaw. Even a tangy dill pickle or a handful of kettle-cooked chips make fun, unfussy companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For party vibes, let people serve themselves directly from the dish and top their portion with whatever fixings they like. Or, cut the casserole into individual servings and place each one on a toasted bun “boat” for a fun, almost slider-like twist. For family nights, set out a toppings bar with extra cheese, jalapeños, chopped onion, and hot sauces.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any Chili Cheese Dog Casserole left, pop the cooled leftovers into an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to three days and make for wildly satisfying next-day lunches.

Freezing

For longer-term meal prep, wrap individual servings or the whole baking dish tightly in foil and freezer-friendly wrap. The casserole will freeze well for up to two months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, place the casserole in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for about 15-20 minutes until hot. For a single portion, you can use the microwave — a minute or two should do the trick, but keep things covered to keep that moisture in.

FAQs

Can I use different types of hot dogs or buns?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in turkey, chicken, veggie, or even jumbo-style hot dogs. Similarly, if you love brioche buns, pretzel rolls, or gluten-free options, this Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is easy to adapt for your needs.

Is homemade chili okay instead of canned?

Homemade chili brings a fabulous personal touch. Just be sure to use a version that’s a bit on the thicker side, so your casserole layers stay intact and don’t get overly soupy.

How spicy does this casserole end up?

The base recipe is fairly mild, but you can easily dial up the heat by tossing in more jalapeños or adding hot sauce to the chili mix. Tailor it to your spice comfort!

Can I make Chili Cheese Dog Casserole ahead of time?

You bet. Assemble up to the point of baking, cover, and pop it in the fridge for up to a day. When ready, bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if chilled.

What’s the best way to keep the buns from getting too soggy?

If you like a little more structure, toast the buns in the oven for a few minutes before assembling the casserole. The quick toasting helps them stand up to the saucy chili layer on top.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like gathering around the table for Chili Cheese Dog Casserole — it’s nostalgic, comforting, and just plain fun. Every bite brings together your favorite classic flavors in a hearty, family-style bake. Give it a whirl on a busy weeknight or next time you host friends; you’re sure to win over a crowd with this easy, cheesy, unforgettable casserole!

Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 15 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is a delicious twist on classic hot dogs, combining all the flavors of chili cheese dogs in a simple, hearty casserole. Perfect for a family-friendly weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Hot Dog Casserole:

8 beef hot dogs
8 hot dog buns

Chili Mixture:

2 cans (15 oz each) chili with beans
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Toppings:

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare Hot Dog Casserole: Place hot dog buns in the dish, cut side up. Put a hot dog in each bun.
Make Chili Mixture: In a bowl, combine chili, ketchup, mustard, chili powder, and garlic powder. Spoon the mixture over the hot dogs.
Add Toppings: Sprinkle chopped onion and half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Uncover, add the remaining cheese, and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly.
Finish and Serve: Let it cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with jalapeños and parsley before serving.