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 made this dish for a family movie night and it was gone in minutes—everyone loved the cheesy, savory goodness in every bite.
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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
- Chives or green onions: 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional)
- Sour cream: 2 tablespoons (optional)
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Instructions
- Prep the oven and dish:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). 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 and onion:
- Scatter sliced hot dogs evenly over the buns. Sprinkle chopped onion over the hot dogs.
- Add chili and cheese:
- Pour chili evenly over the hot dog mixture. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and casserole is heated through.
- Finish and serve:
- Remove from oven, let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with chives or green onions and dollops of sour cream, if desired. Serve hot.
Save This casserole became an instant favorite during our family’s game day gathering—the kids especially enjoyed assembling their own servings with extra toppings.
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Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad or a side of crunchy coleslaw for a well-rounded meal.
Variations
Try pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist or use turkey hot dogs for a lighter version.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
Save 
This effortless casserole is always a hit and delivers comforting flavors every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use plant-based hot dogs?
Yes, swap beef hot dogs for plant-based or turkey options for a lighter or vegetarian alternative.
- → What type of chili works best?
Prepared chili, homemade or canned, works well. Choose with or without beans depending on taste preference.
- → Can I substitute the cheese?
Certainly! Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese add different flavor profiles and melt beautifully.
- → How do I make this gluten-free?
Opt for gluten-free buns and ensure your chili and hot dogs do not contain gluten ingredients.
- → Can the casserole be prepared ahead?
Assemble ahead and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve for a fresh, bubbly dish.
- → What sides go well with this dish?
A green salad or vegetable side pairs nicely for a balanced meal and refreshing contrast.
