This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something indulgent and delicious. With layers of hearty chili, melty cheese, and savory hot dogs, this casserole brings the classic chili dog experience straight to your dinner table, but with an easy, family-friendly twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crowd Pleaser: It’s a hit with both kids and adults alike.
- Easy to Make: Minimal prep and simple ingredients make it a breeze to whip up.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the toppings and ingredients to suit your preferences.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Hot dogs
- Canned chili (with or without beans, your choice)
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, or your preferred blend)
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough
- Optional toppings: diced onions, jalapeños, or sour cream
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread a layer of chili evenly on the bottom of the prepared dish.
- Wrap each hot dog in a crescent roll and place them seam-side down on top of the chili layer.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the hot dogs.
- Pour the remaining chili around the wrapped hot dogs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and fully cooked.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Add optional toppings if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Use spicy chili or add chopped jalapeños.
- Different Cheese: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute veggie dogs and vegetarian chili.
- Additional Toppings: Garnish with green onions, crispy bacon bits, or crushed tortilla chips.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10-15 extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. What type of hot dogs should I use?
Use your favorite brand—regular, jumbo, or even smoked hot dogs work well.
4. Can I use homemade chili?
Yes, homemade chili adds a personal touch and works perfectly in this recipe.
5. What can I serve with this casserole?
Serve with a side salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables to balance the meal.
6. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free crescent roll dough and hot dogs to adapt the recipe.
7. How do I prevent the crescent rolls from getting soggy?
Ensure the chili layer is evenly spread and not too thick under the crescent rolls to avoid excess moisture.
8. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger baking dish or prepare two separate casseroles to feed a larger crowd.
9. How do I make this casserole extra cheesy?
Layer additional cheese between the chili and crescent rolls for a gooey, cheesy result.
10. What toppings work best with this dish?
Try diced onions, jalapeños, sour cream, green onions, or even a drizzle of mustard for added flavor.
Conclusion
Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is the perfect fusion of fun, flavor, and convenience. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or simply looking for a new family favorite, this recipe delivers comfort food at its finest. Easy to customize and even easier to devour, this casserole is sure to become a regular on your dinner menu!
PrintChili Cheese Dog Casserole
This casserole layers juicy hot dogs, savory chili, and melted cheddar cheese over a cornbread base, bringing the beloved flavors of chili cheese dogs to your dinner table in a warm, baked dish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- Cornbread Base:
- 1 package (approximately 8.5 ounces) cornbread or muffin mix
- Ingredients as per package instructions (usually milk and egg)
- Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1 pound hot dogs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 can (15 ounces) chili with beans
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Prepare the Cornbread Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
- Prepare the cornbread batter according to the package instructions.
- Spread half of the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped green bell pepper, onion, and celery.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Hot Dogs and Seasonings:
- Stir in the hot dog pieces and cook until lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the chili, brown sugar, garlic powder, and chili powder to the skillet.
- Stir well and cook until heated through.
- Mix in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spoon the hot dog and chili mixture over the cornbread batter in the baking dish.
- Top with the remaining cornbread batter, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Bake, uncovered, in the preheated oven for 28-32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the casserole to stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For added spice, consider topping the casserole with sliced jalapeños before baking.
- Serve with your favorite chili dog toppings, such as chopped onions, sour cream, or additional shredded cheese.