Save 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 made this chili dog casserole for a family football night and it instantly became everyone's favorite. It's now a regular request for cozy weekends at home.
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
- Prep Baking Dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Arrange Buns:
- Place 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.
- Layer Onion:
- Sprinkle chopped onion over the hot dogs.
- Pour Chili:
- Distribute chili evenly over the hot dog mixture.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese as the final layer.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, until cheese is melted and casserole is bubbly and heated through.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Remove from oven, let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with chives or green onions and dollops of sour cream, if desired. Serve hot.
Save My kids love helping layer the hot dog pieces and sprinkling cheese on top—it's a fun dinner project we look forward to.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for balance.
Make-Ahead Tips
Assemble the casserole a few hours ahead and refrigerate, then bake when you're ready to eat. Leftovers reheat well, too.
Allergy-Friendly Options
For dairy-free, use plant-based cheese and sour cream. Choose gluten-free buns and chili if needed for sensitive diets.
Save This dish always brings everyone to the table quickly—serve hot and enjoy the smiles!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese are great alternatives for a different flavor profile.
- → Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Try substituting hot dogs with plant-based versions and use vegetarian chili to keep it meat-free.
- → How do I ensure the buns don’t get soggy?
Brushing the hot dog buns with melted butter before layering helps keep them crisp and flavorful.
- → Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it in advance and refrigerate; bake just before serving for best results.
- → What garnishes complement this dish?
Chopped fresh chives or green onions and a dollop of sour cream add fresh and creamy accents.