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Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe

Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe
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This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is a comforting, layered baked dish featuring juicy hot dogs, hearty chili, melted sharp cheddar cheese, and soft bread, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Ready in under an hour, this family-friendly recipe uses simple pantry staples and can be easily customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Hot Dogs (choose your favorite brand, quantity as needed for 6 servings)
  • Canned or Homemade Chili (about 2 cups or enough to layer)
  • Sharp Cheddar Cheese (2 cups shredded)
  • Hot Dog Buns or Sliced Sandwich Bread (8 buns or equivalent bread slices)
  • Diced Onions (1/2 cup fresh)

Optional Toppings

  • Mustard or Ketchup (to taste)
  • Jalapeños, Hot Sauce, or Pepper Jack Cheese (for spice)
  • Olives, Green Peppers or Mushrooms (for added texture)

Variations

  • Plant-based Sausages or Beans (to replace hot dogs for vegetarian version)
  • Gluten-Free Buns or Bread (for gluten-free diet)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Slice the hot dogs into bite-sized pieces and dice the onions. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when your casserole is assembled.
  2. Layer the Casserole: In a greased casserole dish, arrange half of the buns or bread slices. Top with half of the hot dog pieces, spread half of the chili evenly, sprinkle half the diced onions, and cover with a generous portion of shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat to create a second flavorful layer.
  3. Bake Until Bubbly: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes to let the cheese brown slightly and everything meld together.
  4. Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing. This rest time helps the layers to set, making it easier to serve and enjoy every cheesy, meaty bite.

Notes

  • Use thick chili to prevent sogginess and maintain good texture between bread layers.
  • Don’t skip using sharp cheddar or a sharp cheese blend to maximize flavor and meltiness.
  • Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking to firm up for cleaner slices.
  • This casserole freezes well; double the recipe for easy future meals.
  • Add crunch by topping with crushed tortilla chips or fried onions before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: chili cheese dog casserole, comfort food, baked casserole, hot dog casserole, quick family dinner, cheesy casserole, nostalgic food

Find it online: https://homemademealz.com/chili-cheese-dog-casserole-recipe/