Save A comforting and crowd-pleasing casserole combining classic chili dogs in a baked, cheesy format—perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings.
This is a dish my family always requests for game nights, it's so easy to make and everyone loves it.
Ingredients
- 8 beef hot dogs: sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cups (about 450 g) prepared chili: (homemade or canned, with or without beans)
- 1 small yellow onion: finely chopped
- 1 ½ cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese:
- 6 hot dog buns: sliced in half
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: melted
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions: (optional)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream: (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Arrange buns:
- Arrange the halved hot dog buns cut-side up in the baking dish. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Add hot dogs:
- Scatter sliced hot dogs evenly over the buns.
- Add onion:
- Sprinkle chopped onion over the hot dogs.
- Pour chili:
- Pour chili evenly over the hot dog mixture.
- Top with cheese:
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and casserole is heated through.
- Cool and garnish:
- Remove from oven, let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with chives or green onions and dollops of sour cream, if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve hot.
Save I remember serving this dish at our annual family barbecue and it was a huge hit, the kids especially loved it.
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).
- Check all labels if serving those with allergies.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 440
- Total Fat: 26 g
- Carbohydrates: 31 g
- Protein: 18 g
Save This Chili Dog Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings comforting flavors to any table with minimal effort.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use different types of hot dogs?
Yes, turkey or plant-based hot dogs work well for lighter or vegetarian options while maintaining a similar texture.
- → What cheese alternatives work best?
Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese can be substituted for cheddar to add new flavor dimensions to the casserole.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
This casserole can be assembled ahead and refrigerated, then baked fresh when you’re ready to serve.
- → What sides complement chili dog casserole?
A crisp green salad or simple vegetable sides help balance the richness of the main dish.
- → Can leftovers be reheated?
Leftover casserole reheats well in the oven or microwave, retaining flavor and texture for next-day meals.
- → Is the casserole gluten-free?
Traditional buns and some chilis contain gluten. Use gluten-free alternatives for a suitable version.