Easy Chili Hot Dog Casserole Recipe

If you're craving the comforting flavors of chili dogs but want a dish that's easy to serve to a group, this Easy Chili Hot Dog Casserole is the perfect solution. Combining hot dogs, chili, cheese, and crescent roll dough, this baked casserole gives you all the flavors of a chili cheese dog but in a convenient, crowd-friendly form. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s sure to be a hit!

This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, game-day gatherings, or casual family dinners. It’s customizable and easy to throw together, making it a go-to recipe when you need a quick and satisfying meal.

What Is Chili Hot Dog Casserole?

Chili Hot Dog Casserole is a delicious baked dish that combines sliced hot dogs, chili, cheese, and often a layer of dough (like crescent rolls or biscuits) to create a comfort food casserole that’s easy to prepare and serve. It’s like having all the flavors of chili cheese dogs baked into a single dish—rich, cheesy, and full of flavor!

Ingredients List for Chili Hot Dog Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy and delicious casserole:

• 8 hot dogs: Use your favorite brand—beef, pork, turkey, or veggie hot dogs.
• 2 cans (15 oz each) chili with beans: Canned chili is a quick option, or you can use homemade chili if you have it on hand.
• 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough: Optional, but it adds a nice buttery layer on top.
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: For that gooey, melty topping.
• ½ small onion, diced: Optional, for extra flavor.
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard: Adds a tangy flavor to complement the chili and hot dogs.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For added depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Optional, for extra spice.
• Optional garnishes: Chopped green onions, jalapeños, or sour cream.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is highly customizable, so feel free to tweak it based on your preferences:

• Hot dog alternatives: Swap out traditional hot dogs for turkey dogs, chicken sausages, or veggie dogs for a lighter or plant-based version.
• Chili options: Use your favorite canned chili with beans, or opt for no-bean chili if you prefer. Homemade chili works great too!
• Add a topping: Use biscuit dough, crescent roll dough, or even a layer of tater tots for a unique and heartier casserole.
• Cheese varieties: Mix in different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for extra flavor.
• Extra heat: Spice things up by adding chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Chili Hot Dog Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Slice the hot dogs: Cut the hot dogs into 1-inch pieces and set them aside.
2. Dice the onion (optional): If you’re using onion, dice it into small pieces.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

1. Layer with chili: Spread one can of chili evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
2. Add the hot dogs: Scatter the sliced hot dogs evenly over the chili layer.
3. Add mustard and seasonings: Drizzle the mustard over the hot dogs and sprinkle with garlic powder and chili powder for added flavor.
4. Top with the second can of chili: Spread the second can of chili over the hot dogs to cover them.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Crescent Roll Topping

1. Add cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chili and hot dogs.
2. Optional crescent roll topping: Unroll the crescent roll dough and lay it over the cheese, covering the top of the casserole. Pinch the seams together to create one solid layer.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. If you’re using crescent roll dough, bake until it’s golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. If you're not using dough, just bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with optional toppings like chopped green onions, sour cream, or jalapeños, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Cook Chili Hot Dog Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish.
2. Prepare the ingredients: Slice the hot dogs and dice the onion.
3. Layer the casserole: Spread chili in the dish, top with sliced hot dogs, mustard, garlic powder, and more chili.
4. Add cheese and dough: Sprinkle with shredded cheese and cover with crescent roll dough (optional).
5. Bake and serve: Bake until bubbly and golden, then garnish with your favorite toppings and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some tips to ensure your Chili Hot Dog Casserole turns out perfectly every time:

• Slicing the hot dogs too thick: Cut the hot dogs into bite-sized pieces so they distribute evenly throughout the casserole.
• Skipping the mustard: The mustard adds a nice tangy flavor that balances the richness of the chili and cheese, so don’t skip it!
• Not enough cheese: Cheese is key for making this dish ooey-gooey and satisfying, so don’t skimp on the cheese layer.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This Chili Hot Dog Casserole is delicious and hearty on its own, but here are a few ways to round out the meal:

• Serve with chips or crackers: Tortilla chips or Fritos make great dippers for scooping up the chili and melted cheese.
• Add a salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the casserole.
• Make a toppings bar: Set out toppings like sour cream, chopped onions, jalapeños, and avocado so everyone can customize their portion.

How to Serve Chili Hot Dog Casserole

To serve, scoop generous portions of the casserole onto plates and garnish with green onions, jalapeños, or sour cream. This dish is perfect for casual family dinners or game day gatherings. Pair it with chips, salad, or cornbread to make it a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Chili Hot Dog Casserole

For a fun, casual presentation, serve the casserole family-style straight from the baking dish. Set up a toppings bar with options like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, avocado, and more for a customizable meal. The golden crescent roll topping adds a beautiful contrast to the cheesy, chili-filled layers underneath.

Chili Hot Dog Casserole Recipe Tips

• Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it with plastic wrap and store it until ready to bake.
• Use leftover chili: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover chili. If you have homemade chili in the fridge or freezer, use it instead of canned chili.
• Freeze leftovers: Leftovers can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use homemade chili instead of canned chili?

Yes! Homemade chili works great in this recipe. Just make sure it's not too watery, as a thicker chili will help the casserole hold together better.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftover Chili Hot Dog Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free hot dogs and gluten-free chili, and skip the crescent roll dough or use a gluten-free dough alternative.

What are other topping options?

Some great toppings include diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced jalapeños, sour cream, avocado, crushed tortilla chips, or even pickles for an extra crunch.

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for added flavor.

Conclusion

Chili Hot Dog Casserole is a fun, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s sure to be a family favorite. With layers of chili, hot dogs, cheese, and optional crescent roll dough, this casserole delivers all the best flavors of chili cheese dogs in a comforting, baked form. It’s the perfect solution for weeknight dinners, game-day parties, or any time you need a quick and satisfying meal. Customize it with your favorite toppings, and enjoy a warm, cheesy, delicious casserole that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

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