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Indulge in the ultimate blast from the past with this jam-packed chili cheese dog casserole: tasty hot dogs tucked into rich homemade beef chili, all covered in gooey cheddar. It's my go-to dish after hectic days and there's never a frown in sight when this hits the table. Toss everything together in just one pan for barely any effort but tons of old-school flavor.
My kids jump up when they see this come out of the oven, usually before I've even set it down. The first time I whipped it up was for a football crowd and now we request it almost every busy weeknight.
Tasty Ingredients
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Grate it straight from the block so it goes gooey and makes every bite pop
- Beef or turkey hot dogs: You want the snappy kind—beef keeps its bite or go lighter with turkey
- Salt and black pepper: Add as much as you like, and if you can, grind your black pepper fresh
- Smoked paprika: Adds that gentle smoky vibe—hunt down Spanish paprika for extra flavor
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Brings warmth and really rounds out the beefy taste
- Chili powder: Pick mild or hot, however you like it
- Tomato paste: Makes the chili thick and extra rich—grab a double concentrated one if you spot it
- Tomato sauce: Use plain unsalted kinds for a cleaner taste and less salt overall
- Kidney beans: Go canned for less work—just rinse and drain so they stay hearty but not mushy
- Ground beef: Try for beef with some marbling, it'll make the chili more flavorful and tender
Simple Step Guide
- Cool and Serve:
- After baking, hold off for five minutes—it slices nicer and all the flavors come together.
- Bake and Finish:
- Bake for twenty to twenty-five minutes—cheese should be bubbly and golden, with hot dogs blistering on top.
- Add the Cheese:
- Scatter cheddar all over, but let the tops of the hot dogs poke out—classic chili dog look!
- Arrange Hot Dogs:
- Stick the dogs in vertically, a little space between so each one cooks just right.
- Assemble in Baking Dish:
- Spoon the hot chili beef into the greased pan, spreading it all the way to the sides.
- Build the Chili Base:
- Add tomato paste, sauce, beans, the spices, and seasonings in with the beef. Drop the heat to medium and let it simmer, stirring, until it gets thick and smells amazing, maybe ten or fifteen minutes.
- Brown the Beef:
- Toss the ground beef into a skillet set to medium-high. Cook, breaking it up, until there's no pink left—about seven minutes. Drain off that extra fat so it isn't greasy.
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Fire up your oven to 375 F (190 C) and lightly oil a 9x13 pan so nothing sticks.
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The cheesy top is my favorite thing—each time it turns bubbly, golden, and super stretchy. My kids dive for the corners loaded with cheese. My partner and I toast up leftovers for lunch and they’re just as tasty the next day.
Keeping It Fresh
Pop leftovers in the fridge covered—they'll last up to four days. Stash portions in the freezer for up to two months. If you can, cut it first for quick reheats. When you're ready, reheat slices in the oven, covered at 350 F, until they're hot and the cheese gets gooey again.
Other Ingredient Ideas
Want something lighter? Use ground turkey or chicken. Veggie lovers can grab meatless hot dogs and veggie crumble. Try swapping kidney beans for black or pinto beans to mix things up.
Ways to Serve
Toss crushed corn chips or fresh onions on top for extra crunch. Dollop on sour cream, add chopped jalapeños, or try pickled onions for a punch. It goes great with a simple salad or even roasted corn when it’s hot outside.
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Fun Backstory
Chili cheese dogs are a classic at American ball games and backyard grills. This version keeps the fun but ditch the mess—bringing all those good vibes to your dinner table. It always kicks off stories and memories with family and friends.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Could I switch up the beans?
Absolutely, swap in pinto or black beans for a fun flavor change in the chili.
- → What's the best way to make it hotter?
Throw in some fresh jalapeños or a dash of cayenne when whipping up the chili part.
- → Can I leave out the meat?
Sure thing, use veggie dogs instead and add more beans or try a plant-based crumble.
- → Got a cheese suggestion?
Sharp cheddar melts great, but Monterey Jack, Colby, or a combo of cheeses all taste awesome on top.
- → Is it okay to prep this early?
Yep, put it together and stash in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Give it a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s cold.