Chili Dog Casserole Bake (Printable version)
Baked chili dogs with melty cheese and a golden finish, perfect for casual dinners or game days.
# What You'll Need:
→ Meats
01 - 8 beef hot dogs, sliced into 1-inch pieces
→ Chili
02 - 2 cups prepared chili (homemade or canned, with or without beans)
→ Vegetables
03 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
→ Dairy
04 - 1 and 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
→ Breads
05 - 6 hot dog buns, sliced in half
→ Pantry
06 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
07 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
→ Garnishes
08 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional)
09 - 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
02 - Place halved hot dog buns cut-side up in prepared dish. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder.
03 - Scatter sliced hot dogs evenly over the buns, then sprinkle finely chopped onion across the hot dogs.
04 - Pour prepared chili evenly over the hot dog and onion mixture.
05 - Top evenly with shredded cheddar cheese.
06 - Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is thoroughly heated.
07 - Remove casserole from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with chives or green onions and dollops of sour cream if desired. Serve hot.
# Expert advice:
01 -
- Perfect for weeknights since it uses simple supermarket staples
- Feeds a crowd with little prep so it is ideal for gatherings
- Cheesy and hearty yet easy to customize with veggies or lighter meats
02 -
- Easy to make ahead and reheat for busy nights
- Kids and adults both love the familiar flavors
- Balances protein and carbohydrates for a filling meal
03 -
- If possible shred your own cheddar for better melt and flavor
- Toast your buns lightly before assembling for an extra layer of texture
- Taste your chili before using and adjust with extra spices if it wraps up bland
- Layer gently and do not press down so every piece bakes up soft and pillowy