Get ready for a fun and incredibly easy dish that brings together two beloved comfort foods: chili dogs and casseroles. This Chili Dog Casserole is the perfect meal for a casual weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a fun outdoor cookout. It's a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults, layering fluffy hot dog buns, savory hot dogs, and hearty chili, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Best of all, it can be assembled ahead of time for a stress-free meal.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is fantastic as is, but feel free to add your own creative twists!
- 8 high-quality hot dog buns
- 8 of your favorite hot dogs
- 1 (15-ounce) can of chili (your preferred brand and spice level)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (yellow or white)
- 1 tablespoon prepared yellow mustard
- 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- Optional: A dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra spice.
Simple Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Dish Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Create the Base Layer Tear the hot dog buns into bite-sized pieces and arrange them evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This bun layer will soak up all the delicious flavors from the chili and create a wonderful, soft base for your casserole.
Step 3: Layer the Hot Dogs and Chili Slice the hot dogs into bite-sized pieces and scatter them evenly over the layer of torn buns. Next, pour the can of chili over the hot dogs, spreading it out to cover everything.
Step 4: Add the Toppings Sprinkle the chopped onion evenly over the chili. Drizzle the prepared mustard across the top. Finally, cover the entire casserole with a generous layer of shredded Cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
Tips for Serving and Variations:
- Serving Suggestion: This casserole is best served hot and fresh from the oven. Let it cool for just a few minutes before scooping and serving. It's fantastic on its own or with a side of coleslaw or a simple green salad.
- Add Some Crunch: For extra texture, consider topping the casserole with crushed Fritos or tortilla chips before baking.
- Spice It Up: If you like things spicy, add some sliced jalapeños on top of the cheese before it goes into the oven.
- Make It Your Own: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, like a Monterey Jack blend, or use your favorite homemade chili recipe for an even more personal touch.
Enjoy this simple, delicious, and crowd-pleasing Chili Dog Casserole!
