If you love chili cheese dogs, get ready—this Fully Loaded Classic Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is about to become your new comfort food obsession. Imagine the smoky aroma of savory chili bubbling in the oven, juicy hot dogs nestled into soft, golden bread, and a blanket of gooey, melted cheese stretching with every spoonful. You get all the nostalgic flavors of a ballpark chili dog, but baked into one warm, hearty, crowd-pleasing casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- You get all the flavors of a classic chili cheese dog in one easy dish
- It’s comforting, hearty, and incredibly satisfying
- Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings
- Easy to customize with your favorite toppings
- Kid-friendly, family-approved, and freezer-friendly
- Minimal prep with big, bold flavor payoff
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this irresistible casserole:
- 8 beef hot dogs, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 can (15 oz) chili with beans (or no-bean chili if you prefer)
- 1 package refrigerated biscuit dough or crescent dough, cut into chunks
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Colby Jack cheese
- ½ cup diced onion
- ¼ cup sliced jalapeños (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so nothing sticks and cleanup stays easy.
Step 2: Build the Base
Spread the dough pieces evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. This will bake into a soft, fluffy base that soaks up all that chili goodness.
Step 3: Add the Hot Dogs
Scatter the sliced hot dogs over the dough. As they bake, they’ll release that signature smoky flavor you know and love.
Step 4: Mix the Chili Layer
In a bowl, stir together the chili, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour this rich, savory mixture evenly over the hot dogs and dough.
Step 5: Load It Up
Sprinkle the diced onions and jalapeños (if using) over the chili. Then generously top everything with the shredded cheeses, making sure every corner is covered.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly, the cheese is melted and lightly golden, and the dough is fully cooked through.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set slightly and makes scooping easier.
Tips & Variations
- Use all-beef, turkey, or spicy hot dogs depending on your taste
- Swap the dough for cornbread batter for a chili-cornbread twist
- Add cooked bacon bits for extra smoky crunch
- Love heat? Mix hot sauce or chili flakes into the chili
- For extra creaminess, add a layer of cream cheese or sour cream before baking
What to Serve With It
This casserole is filling on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:
- A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
- Coleslaw for crunch and freshness
- Pickles or pickled jalapeños to cut through the richness
- Classic potato chips or seasoned fries
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freezer: Freeze fully cooled portions for up to 2 months
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave until heated through
Nutrition & Calories
Approximate nutrition values per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
Values may vary depending on brands and portion sizes.
Final Thoughts
This Fully Loaded Classic Chili Cheese Dog Casserole brings comfort, nostalgia, and bold flavor together in one irresistible dish. It’s warm, cheesy, savory, and guaranteed to make your kitchen smell amazing while it bakes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just craving something indulgent and cozy, this casserole delivers every single time. One bite, and you’ll see why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. 🌭🧀
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