Description

This Fully Loaded Classic Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is a comforting, crowd-pleasing bake perfect for an easy family dinner. Featuring hearty beef hot dogs nestled in buns, topped generously with chili, melted cheddar cheese, diced onions, and optional jalapeños, then finished with mustard and ketchup drizzle. It’s a nostalgic, flavorful American classic made simple and delicious with minimal prep.

Ingredients

Hot Dogs and Buns

8 beef hot dogs
8 hot dog buns (or substitute with crescent dough)

Toppings and Mix-ins

2 cups canned or homemade chili (with or without beans)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 small red onion, finely diced
1/4 cup chopped pickled jalapeños (optional)

Finishing Touches

2 tablespoons yellow mustard
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and help with easy cleanup.
Assemble Hot Dogs: Arrange the hot dog buns or unrolled crescent dough in a single layer in the prepared dish. Nestle one beef hot dog into each bun, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
Add Chili: Spoon chili evenly over each hot dog, filling the buns and covering the hot dogs thoroughly for a delicious coating of flavor.
Top with Cheese and Veggies: Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chili-covered hot dogs. Add the finely diced red onion and chopped jalapeños if you like a little extra heat and crunch.
Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish uncovered in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, and the buns are toasted to perfection.
Garnish and Serve: Once baked, drizzle yellow mustard and ketchup over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions to add a pop of color and freshness before serving.

Notes

For a low-carb version, omit the buns and layer just the hot dogs, chili, and cheese in the casserole dish. Serve alongside tortilla chips or cauliflower rice for a tasty alternative.
If you prefer a spicier casserole, add more jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chili before assembling.
Use homemade chili for more control over ingredients and flavor, or choose your favorite canned chili to save time.
Make sure the baking dish is large enough to comfortably hold all ingredients without overcrowding for even cooking.