This nostalgic casserole features juicy hot dogs nestled in hearty homemade beef chili, all blanketed with a bubbling layer of sharp cheddar. The chili base combines ground beef, kidney beans, tomatoes, and spices, simmered to savory perfection. Hot dogs are arranged in the flavorful chili, then topped with plenty of cheese and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s ready in under an hour, perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Feel free to add a spicy kick, swap in your favorite beans, or try vegetarian dogs for a twist.
This fully loaded chili cheese dog casserole is the ultimate throwback comfort meal, featuring juicy hot dogs nestled in from-scratch beef chili and crowned with bubbling sharp cheddar. It is a top pick on my busiest weeknights and never fails to bring big smiles at the dinner table. Everything comes together in one pan for minimal fuss but packs maximum nostalgic flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
So simple to make with basic pantry staples everyone already has
All the classic chili dog flavor packed into one family-sized dish
Bake once and enjoy for meals all week
Cheesy bubbly top makes it instantly craveable
My whole family cheers when I set this down usually before it even cools. I first made it for a game-day gathering and now it is a repeat request for quick weeknight comfort food.
Ingredients
Ground beef: Look for beef with moderate marbling for a richer chili flavor and tenderness
Kidney beans: Canned beans save prep time and keep this hearty if you want a firmer bite rinse well and drain
Tomato sauce: Use plain unsalted tomato sauce for a fresh flavor base and watch the sodium
Tomato paste: This thickens the chili and boosts the richness go for double concentrated if you can find it
Chili powder: Choose a blend labeled mild or hot depending on your preference
Garlic powder and onion powder: These build warmth and round out the beefiness
Smoked paprika: For a subtle smoky depth opt for Spanish smoked paprika if possible
Salt and black pepper: Add to taste shop for freshly ground black pepper for best flavor
Beef or turkey hot dogs: Pick high-quality snappy hot dogs with real beef or try turkey for a slightly lighter take
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Grate your own from a block for best melting and a sharper bite
Ezoic
