Chili Cheese Dog Bake is a delightful twist on the classic chili cheese dog, combining all the flavors you love in a convenient, baked dish. This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for a family-friendly dinner. With a refrigerated pizza crust, hot dogs, cheddar cheese, and chili sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 refrigerated pizza crust
- 4 bun-length hotdogs
- 4 cheddar cheese sticks (or 4 slices of cheddar cheese, cut to match the length of the hotdogs)
- 1 can hot dog chili sauce
- 2 tbsp butter (melted)
- Garlic powder and fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Crust
- Unroll the refrigerated pizza crust onto a clean, flat surface.
- Cut the pizza crust into 4 equal rectangles, each large enough to wrap around a hot dog and cheese stick.
Step 3: Assemble the Chili Cheese Dogs
- Place a hot dog at the edge of each rectangle of pizza dough.
- Lay a cheddar cheese stick or slice of cheddar cheese next to the hot dog.
- Roll the dough tightly around the hot dog and cheese, making sure to seal the edges by pressing the dough together to prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking.
Step 4: Arrange and Top with Chili
- Place the wrapped hot dogs seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the hot dog chili sauce evenly over the top of the wrapped hot dogs.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
- Check the bake during the last few minutes to ensure the crust is nicely browned but not overcooked.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Remove the dish from the oven.
- Brush the tops of the baked chili cheese dogs with melted butter.
- Sprinkle garlic powder and fresh chopped parsley over the top for added flavor and garnish.
- Serve hot, and enjoy this cheesy, chili-filled comfort dish!
Cook’s Notes
- Cheese Options: If you don’t have cheese sticks, you can use regular cheddar cheese slices or any other type of cheese you like. Just cut it into strips to fit the hot dogs.
- Chili Sauce: You can use your favorite canned hot dog chili sauce or homemade chili for this recipe.
- Optional Toppings: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese, diced onions, or jalapeños on top before baking for extra flavor.
Variations
Spicy Chili Cheese Dog Bake
Add a few slices of pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce inside each dough-wrapped hot dog for a spicy kick.
Bacon-Wrapped Chili Cheese Dog Bake
Wrap each hot dog in a slice of bacon before rolling it in the pizza dough for an extra indulgent version.
Vegetarian Chili Cheese Dog Bake
Use vegetarian hot dogs and vegetarian chili to make this dish suitable for vegetarians.
Tex-Mex Chili Cheese Dog Bake
Add a layer of salsa and sprinkle some taco seasoning over the hot dogs before wrapping them in the dough for a Tex-Mex twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of dough?
Yes, you can use crescent roll dough or puff pastry instead of pizza dough for a different texture and flavor.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chili cheese dog bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked wrapped hot dogs. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
4. What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a side of fries, a fresh salad, or coleslaw for a complete meal.
5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the wrapped hot dogs and store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. Add the chili sauce just before baking.
Chili Cheese Dog Bake is a fun and delicious twist on a classic favorite, making it a perfect dinner option for the whole family. The combination of cheesy hot dogs wrapped in dough and smothered in chili sauce creates a comforting and satisfying meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your meal rotation. Enjoy the flavors of this hearty dish with your favorite toppings and sides!
