Chili Dog Casserole is my nine year old’s FAVORITE recipe! And I love it because it’s SO easy to make (also yummy)!
I have five kids. FIVE KIDS, yo! That means I’ve had a lot of practice cooking for a crowd. And this chili dog casserole recipe comes in super handy during football season when we love to host parties and have people over to eat.
I talk about this a lot – but it’s worth mentioning again and again – even though I love to cook and I love to have parties, what I don’t love is being stuck in the kitchen for the entire time! So we’ve learned lots of ways to shortcut and prepare in advance to avoid that scenario.
Chili Dog Casserole
Chili Dog Casserole Recipe
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Why you’ll love this recipe!
The awesome thing about this recipe is that it’s perfect for homegating OR tailgating! If you’re taking it with you to the game, just pop it in the oven right before you’re ready to leave and then bring it in an insulated tote so the chili dogs stay nice and warm.
Chili Dog Casserole Recipe Ingredients
- Hot dogs
- Buns (I like to use the slightly bigger sturdier buns for this as they stand up to the weight /volume/moisture of the ingredients better)
- Chili per hot dog
- Finely shredded cheese
- Optional: diced white or sweet yellow onion, hot sauce
How do you make chili dog casserole?
⭐ First, grab a pan (or pans!) that will fit all your buns. Place buns side-by-side into pan(s).
⭐ Next, tuck a hot dog into each bun.
⭐ Then, pour chili over each dog, and sprinkle cheese on top.
⭐ Finally, bake until cheese is bubbly and everything is warmed through. Top with onion and enjoy!
Scroll down to the printable recipe card toward the bottom of this article for ingredient measurements and detailed cooking instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use turkey or veggie dogs instead of hot dogs?
Yes, you can definitely use turkey dogs or veggie dogs as a substitute for hot dogs in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different types of dogs may require different cooking times.
Can I make the chili from scratch?
Absolutely! While the recipe suggests using your favorite chili, you can definitely make the chili from scratch if you prefer. Simply prepare your homemade chili and use it in place of the store-bought chili.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
It’s best to assemble and bake the casserole right before serving for optimal taste and texture. However, you can prepare the individual components in advance (chili, shredded cheese, etc.) and then assemble and bake the casserole when you’re ready to serve.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing the leftovers may affect the texture of the hot dog and bun. It’s recommended to consume the casserole fresh for the best taste and texture. If you have leftover chili, you can freeze it separately and use it for another meal.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use your preferred type of cheese or experiment with different cheeses for the topping. Cheddar, mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses can all work well in this recipe.
Can I add additional toppings?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the casserole with your favorite toppings. Diced tomatoes, jalapeños, pickles, or even a dollop of sour cream are all delicious additions to consider.
Try our pickled jalapenos or pickled onions as a topping!
Tips and tricks
Choose the right buns: Opt for slightly bigger and sturdier buns that can hold up to the weight, volume, and moisture of the ingredients. This will prevent the buns from becoming soggy.
Use your favorite chili: Select a chili that you enjoy the most to add flavor to the dish. Whether it’s homemade or store-bought, use the chili that suits your taste preferences. Scroll down to see a list of our favorite homemade chili recipes!
Add shredded cheese: Sprinkle a generous amount of fine shredded cheese on top of each hot dog. You can use cheddar, mozzarella, or any other cheese that melts well.
Consider optional toppings: If you like additional flavors, you can add diced white or sweet yellow onions, jalapeno, or even relish as a topping. They can add a refreshing crunch and a hint of sweetness to the casserole.
Adjust cooking time and temperature: The recipe suggests cooking the casserole at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and everything is warmed through. However, ovens can vary, so keep an eye on the casserole and adjust the time and temperature if needed.
Customize the recipe: Feel free to customize the recipe based on your preferences. You can add other toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of mustard or ketchup.
More chili recipes we love
- Recipe for Wendy’s Chili – Just like the real thing!
- Breakfast Chili – Chili for breakfast is a thing! And it’s a really really GOOD thing! After you try this you’ll wonder where chili for breakfast has been all your life.
- Chili Mac – Sing it with me… these are a few of my favorite things… woah. Yes. Chili + mac and cheese = happy mouth.
- Chili with NO Beans – Not so hot on the beans but still love chili? Then this fantastic bean free chili is just what you need. You won’t believe what some of the ingredients are, but you’ll love how they work together! Yum!
- Chili Pot Pie Recipe – Only a few steps and you’ve got a delicious and unique dinner recipe! I like to use a pre-made crust for quick prep.
- Turkey Chili – Trying to keep it light? This recipe is low in fat and calories, but high in flavor!
- Easy Chili Dogs – Classic and delicious. My dad asks for these when he visits!
- Pumpkin Chili – Get into the feel of fall with this hearty chili made special with the addition of pure pumpkin.
- Quick Chicken Chili – No time for an all day chili simmer? No sweat. This Last Minute Chicken Chili is ready in no time and perfect for a simple weeknight meal.
- Make sure to check out all our easy chili recipes!
Tools we love
- Glass casserole dish with lid – I love this dish, it can go from freezer to oven!
- Metal spatula – We like a metal spatula for getting lots of cheesy chicken and peppers.
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How to make Chili Dog Casserole
Chili Dog Casserole
Ingredients
- Equal number of hot dogs and buns I like to use the slightly bigger sturdier buns for this as they stand up to the weight /volume/moisture of the ingredients better
- 1/2 cup of your favorite chili per hot dog
- 1/4 cup fine shredded cheese per hot dog
- optional: diced white or sweet yellow onion
Instructions
- Grab a pan (or pans!) that will fit all your buns. Place buns side-by-side into pan(s).
- Tuck a hot dog into each bun.
- Pour chili over each dog, and then sprinkle cheese on top.
- Place in a 375 degree oven for 20 minutes or until cheese is bubbly and everything is warmed through.
- Top with onion and enjoy!
Video
Notes
Nutrition
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Chili Dog Casserole Recipe
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This post was originally written by me on behalf of Tyson Foods, Inc. All opinions are entirely my own.
Carrie says
I never thought about fixing them first then putting it in the oven. This kids will absolutely love this. Will be trying this for sure.
wilhelmina says
This is a fun way to feed a crowd!