Save A comforting and crowd-pleasing casserole combining classic chili dogs in a baked, cheesy format—perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings.
I first made this chili dog casserole for a football gathering and it quickly became a requested staple for family parties. The cheesy top and savory chili make it irresistible every time.
Ingredients
- Beef hot dogs: 8, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- Prepared chili: 2 cups (about 450 g), homemade or canned, with or without beans
- Yellow onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 ½ cups (170 g)
- Hot dog buns: 6, sliced in half
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon, melted
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
- Fresh chives or green onions (optional): 2 tablespoons, chopped
- Sour cream (optional): 2 tablespoons
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Set oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch (23x33 cm) baking dish.
- Prepare buns:
- Arrange the halved hot dog buns cut-side up in the baking dish. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Add hot dogs:
- Scatter sliced beef hot dogs evenly over the buns.
- Layer onion:
- Sprinkle chopped onion over the hot dogs.
- Add chili:
- Pour chili evenly over the hot dog mixture.
- Top with cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over everything.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbly, and casserole is heated through.
- Garnish and serve:
- Let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with chives or green onions and dollops of sour cream if desired. Serve hot.
Save Making this dish brought back memories of old-school family game nights where everyone competed for the last cheesy serving. It's a favorite in our house now—always gone in minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness and add a fresh note to your meal.
Flavor Variations
Try swapping cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese. You can also use turkey or plant-based hot dogs for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve. Leftovers keep well in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Save This casserole brings the fun of chili dogs into a shareable, cheesy bake. It's sure to be your next comfort-food favorite!