Description
This casserole takes all the best parts of a chili cheese dog—hot dogs, chili, gooey cheese—and bakes them into a delicious, golden one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy nights or game day.
Ingredients
- 8 classic beef or all-beef hot dogs
- 2 cups thick canned or homemade chili (with or without beans)
- 8 top-sliced hot dog buns
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a blend with Monterey Jack)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard (optional)
- 1 tbsp ketchup (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced pickled jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions or fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Arrange hot dog buns snugly in the dish. Toast in the oven for 5 minutes.
- Place one hot dog in each bun. Spoon chili over the hot dogs generously.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
- Add optional toppings such as mustard, ketchup, or jalapeños.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and buns are golden.
- Top with green onions or parsley before serving. Let cool slightly.
Notes
- Toast buns before assembling to prevent sogginess.
- Use thick chili to avoid a mushy texture.
- Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
- Top with crushed tortilla chips or fried onions post-bake for added crunch.