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 football watch party, and it quickly became a favorite. Even picky eaters love the cheesy topping and comforting blend of ingredients.
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 (optional): 2 tablespoons
- Sour cream (optional): 2 tablespoons
Instructions
- Prep the oven and dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Arrange buns:
- Place bun halves cut-side up in the baking dish. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Add hot dogs and onion:
- Scatter sliced hot dogs over the buns, then sprinkle chopped onion on top.
- Add chili and cheese:
- Pour chili evenly over the hot dog mixture and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered 30–35 minutes, until cheese is melted and casserole is heated through.
- Garnish 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 This casserole is always a hit at family celebrations and casual potlucks. Kids especially love building their own servings with plenty of cheese and toppings.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for added freshness and balance.
Make Ahead & Storage
Prepare the casserole up to 1 day ahead, cover and refrigerate, then bake just before serving. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Customization Ideas
Try Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick, or add jalapeños, extra onions, or bell peppers to boost flavor.
Save Loaded with favorite chili dog flavors, this casserole is sure to steal the show at your next gathering. Enjoy warm and cheesy comfort in every bite!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use turkey or plant-based hot dogs?
Yes, turkey or plant-based hot dogs make great alternatives for lighter or vegetarian versions.
- → What cheese works best for this dish?
Cheddar is traditional, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese provide flavorful variations.
- → How should I prepare the bun layer?
Halve the hot dog buns and arrange cut-side up, brushing with melted butter and sprinkling garlic powder before adding toppings.
- → Can I use homemade chili?
Absolutely, homemade chili or canned varieties with or without beans are suitable for this dish.
- → What garnishes enhance the final dish?
Chopped fresh chives or green onions and dollops of sour cream complement the flavors beautifully.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Due to hot dog buns and chili ingredients, this dish is not gluten-free unless specially substituted.