Save A comforting and crowd-pleasing casserole combining classic chili dogs in a baked, cheesy format, perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings.
When I first made this casserole, my family loved how it transformed their favorite chili dogs into an easy, shareable dish. It quickly became a requested dinner for busy nights and casual get-togethers.
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, for garnish)
- Sour cream: 2 tablespoons (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep the baking dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Prepare the buns:
- Arrange the halved hot dog buns cut-side up in the baking dish. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Layer hot dogs:
- Scatter sliced hot dogs evenly over the buns.
- Add onion:
- Sprinkle chopped onion over the hot dogs.
- Spoon on chili:
- Pour chili evenly over the hot dog mixture.
- Add cheese:
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and casserole is heated through.
- Garnish and 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 Serving this casserole for dinner always sparks fun conversation about everyone's favorite way to top traditional chili dogs. It's a cozy meal my kids love to help assemble.
Required Tools
9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish, knife and cutting board, small bowl for butter, optional pastry brush.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (buns), dairy (cheese, butter, sour cream), possible soy (hot dogs), and possible gluten (chili, depending on brand). Always check labels before serving to anyone with allergies.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 440 calories, 26 g fat, 31 g carbohydrates, and 18 g protein.
Save This comforting casserole is always a hit and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Enjoy leftovers reheated for a quick lunch!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use homemade chili instead of canned?
Absolutely, homemade chili can enhance freshness and flavor. Use your preferred chili style, with or without beans.
- → What cheese works best for melting in this dish?
Cheddar cheese melts well and provides a sharp flavor, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack are tasty alternatives for variety.
- → How do I prevent the buns from getting soggy?
Brushing the buns with melted butter and baking uncovered helps maintain a crisp texture while allowing ingredients to meld.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Bake just before serving for best texture.
- → What are good garnishes for this dish?
Chopped fresh chives or green onions add brightness, and dollops of sour cream provide a cool, creamy contrast.