Irresistibly Cheesy Chili Cheese Dog Bake Recipe

Craving a hearty chili cheese dog bake that combines comfort and convenience?

Weeknight dinners demand quick, satisfying solutions for hungry families.

Melted cheese, savory chili, and crispy hot dogs create a mouthwatering casserole everyone will devour.

Layers of flavor stack up in this simple yet delicious dish.

No complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients stand between you and a killer meal.

Simple pantry staples come together in less than an hour.

You’ll want to bookmark this crowd-pleasing recipe for your next casual gathering.

Ways To Change Up Chili Cheese Dog Bake

• Vegetarian Chili Cheese Dog Bake: Replace ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles or lentils for a protein-packed meatless version.
• Low-Carb Chili Cheese Boat: Swap hot dog buns with lettuce wraps or zucchini boats, reducing carbohydrate content while maintaining flavor.
• Spicy Southwest Chili Dog Casserole: Add diced jalapeños, use pepper jack cheese, and include a dash of cayenne pepper to create a fiery southwestern-style dish.
• Gluten-Free Comfort Bake: Use gluten-free hot dog buns, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers, and ensure all seasonings are certified gluten-free.

Best Sides With Chili Cheese Dog Bake

• Craft Perfect Beverage Matches: Bold Beer Pairing
• Grab a hoppy IPA or amber ale to complement the rich, meaty chili cheese dog bake. The beer's crisp bitterness cuts through the heavy flavors and refreshes your palate between bites.
• Serve Cool Condiment Companions: Fresh Contrast
• Add zesty coleslaw or tangy pickle spears on the side to balance the dish's richness. These crisp, acidic accompaniments provide a light counterpoint to the hearty chili and melted cheese.
• Design Drink Harmony: Spicy Sidekick
• Select a robust red wine like zinfandel or malbec to match the bold chili seasonings. These wines offer enough complexity and depth to stand up to the spicy, robust flavors of the bake.

Storing Chili Cheese Dog Bake For Later

• Transfer cooled chili cheese dog bake to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover tightly to prevent moisture loss and preserve flavor.
• Wrap the bake securely in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label the container with the date to track freshness.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying, then bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval to ensure even warming.

Chili Cheese Dog Bake FAQs

• Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a different flavor profile.

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids typically love hot dogs and cheesy dishes, making this a great meal that children will enjoy.

• How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add jalapeños, increase the amount of chili powder, or include a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat level to your preference.

• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the entire casserole earlier in the day and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What Makes Chili Cheese Dog Bake So Satisfying

• Tackle Family Dinner Excitement: Transform an ordinary meal into a crowd-pleasing feast that gets everyone around the table with enthusiasm and joy.
• Customize with Ease: Mix and match ingredients like hot dog varieties, cheese types, or bean options to create a personalized dish that suits every taste preference.
• Comfort Food Champion: Deliver a hearty, satisfying meal that combines classic comfort flavors of chili, hot dogs, and melted cheese in one delightful baking dish.
• Stress-Free Cooking Adventure: Prepare a complete meal with minimal kitchen skills, using simple techniques that guarantee a delicious result even for novice cooks.

Ingredients Needed For Chili Cheese Dog Bake

• Hot Dog Buns: A soft foundation that provides structure and absorbs the rich chili flavors.
• Hot Dogs: Classic protein that adds traditional flavor and meaty texture to the dish.

• Ground Beef: A hearty meat that creates the core of the chili mixture.
• Onions, Bell Peppers: Aromatic vegetables that add depth and subtle sweetness to the base.

• Olive Oil: A cooking fat that helps sauté vegetables and prevent sticking.
• Chili Powder, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Salt, Black Pepper: Spices that enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• Tomato Sauce: A rich, tangy liquid that helps bind the chili ingredients.
• Kidney Beans: A protein-packed legume that adds texture and nutritional value.
• Cheddar Cheese: A melty, sharp topping that provides creamy richness.
• Breadcrumbs, Milk: A crispy coating that adds golden-brown texture to the dish.
• Sour Cream: An optional creamy garnish for added richness.

How To Bake A Chili Cheese Dog Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Set the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to create a perfect non-stick surface.

Step 2: Sauté Veggie Goodness

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook diced onions and bell peppers until they become soft and slightly golden.

Step 3: Brown The Beef

Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Cook until the meat is completely browned with no pink remaining.

Step 4: Spice It Up

• Chili powder
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly.

Step 5: Create Hearty Chili Base

Pour in tomato sauce and kidney beans, mixing well. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes to develop deep, rich flavors.

Step 6: Build The Bun Foundation

Arrange hot dog buns in the prepared baking dish, creating a snug base layer for the chili mixture.

Step 7: Position The Hot Dogs

Carefully place hot dogs on top of the bun layer, spacing them evenly across the dish.

Step 8: Cover With Chili

Ladle the prepared chili mixture over the hot dogs, ensuring complete and even coverage.

Step 9: Cheese Blanket

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the chili layer, creating a melty, gooey topping.

Step 10: Crispy Breadcrumb Topping

Mix breadcrumbs with milk in a small bowl to create a slightly moistened coating.

Step 11: Add Crunch

Scatter the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer, providing a crispy golden-brown finish.

Step 12: Bake To Perfection

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the breadcrumbs turn golden brown.

Step 13: Rest And Settle

Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 14: Final Touch

Optional: Add a dollop of sour cream on top before serving for an extra creamy finish.

Tips For A Great Chili Cheese Dog Bake

• Grease Smartly: Use cooking spray or butter to ensure easy removal and prevent sticking in the baking dish.
• Brown Meat Perfectly: Cook ground beef on medium-high heat, breaking it into small pieces for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
• Spice Balance Matters: Taste the chili mixture before assembling and adjust seasonings to create a robust, well-rounded flavor profile.
• Layer Strategically: Place hot dogs and buns snugly to maximize cheese coverage and prevent dry edges during baking.
• Crisp Topping Technique: Mix breadcrumbs with a splash of milk to create a golden, crunchy texture that enhances the overall dish.

Chili Cheese Dog Bake Recipe

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4.5 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Chili cheese dog bake brings comfort food to new heights with its irresistible blend of classic flavors. Hearty chili, melted cheese, and juicy hot dogs create a crowd-pleasing dish you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• 8 hot dogs
• 1 lb ground beef

Starches:

• 8 hot dog buns
• 1 cup breadcrumbs

Dairy and Cheese:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream

Seasonings and Sauces:

• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans

Vegetables:

• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers

Liquids and Additional:

• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure a non-stick surface for the chili cheese dog bake.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sauté diced onions and bell peppers until they become translucent and slightly caramelized.
3. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until the meat is completely browned and no pink remains.
4. Sprinkle chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over the meat mixture, stirring thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly.
5. Pour in tomato sauce and kidney beans, stirring to combine, and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes to develop rich flavors.
6. Arrange hot dog buns in the prepared baking dish, creating a snug base layer for the chili mixture.
7. Carefully place hot dogs on top of the bun layer, spacing them evenly across the dish.
8. Ladle the prepared chili mixture over the hot dogs, ensuring complete coverage.
9. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the chili layer, creating a vibrant and melty topping.
10. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with milk to create a slightly moistened coating for added texture.
11. Scatter the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer, providing a crispy golden-brown finish.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the breadcrumbs turn golden brown.
13. Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to settle.
14. Optional: Garnish with a dollop of sour cream before serving for an extra creamy touch.

Notes

• Swap hot dogs for plant-based alternatives to create a vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying and flavorful.
• Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter protein option that reduces overall fat content.
• Add a sprinkle of jalapeños or hot sauce to boost the heat and give the dish an extra kick for spice lovers.
• Prep ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process and make this a quick weeknight dinner option.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg