Craving a comfort food classic with a twist? This Chili Cheese Dog Bake Dinner combines the best of hot dogs, chili, and cheesy goodness into one delicious and easy-to-make dish. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. The buttery, garlicky buns provide the perfect foundation for the cheesy, chili-topped hot dogs, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and fun to eat.
Ingredients
- 8 hot dog buns
- ¼ cup butter (30 g), melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped, plus more for garnish
- 8 slices cheddar cheese
- 15 oz chili (425 g), with or without beans
- 8 hot dogs
Instructions
1. Prepare the Buns:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and chopped parsley.
- Brush the insides of each hot dog bun with the garlic butter mixture.
2. Assemble the Hot Dogs:
- Place a slice of cheddar cheese inside each bun, then add a hot dog on top of the cheese.
- Arrange the assembled hot dogs in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Add the Chili:
- Pour the chili evenly over the hot dogs in the baking dish, making sure to cover each hot dog completely.
4. Bake:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve:
- Garnish with additional fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious Chili Cheese Dog Bake Dinner!
Cook’s Notes
- Chili Options: You can use canned chili for convenience, or make your own homemade chili if you prefer. Whether you choose chili with or without beans is up to your personal preference.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper jack or mozzarella can be great alternatives to cheddar.
- Hot Dogs: This recipe works well with any type of hot dog, including beef, turkey, or even veggie dogs.
Variations
- Spicy Chili Cheese Dog Bake:
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the chili for an extra kick of heat.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy twist.
- Bacon-Wrapped Chili Cheese Dogs:
- Wrap each hot dog in a slice of bacon before placing it in the bun.
- Follow the rest of the recipe as directed for a delicious, bacon-infused variation.
- Vegetarian Chili Cheese Dog Bake:
- Use veggie hot dogs and vegetarian chili to make this dish meat-free.
- Ensure the cheese you use is vegetarian-friendly, or substitute with vegan cheese if needed.
Keto Version
Ingredients:
- Replace the hot dog buns with large romaine lettuce leaves or low-carb tortillas.
- Use sugar-free ketchup and chili with no added sugars or beans.
- Ensure the cheese used is full-fat and low in carbs.
Instructions:
- Follow the same preparation steps, substituting the buns with lettuce leaves or low-carb tortillas.
Low-Carb Version
Ingredients:
- Use low-carb hot dog buns or lettuce wraps.
- Choose a low-carb chili recipe or canned low-carb chili.
- Stick with full-fat cheddar cheese.
Instructions:
- Prepare and assemble the hot dogs as described, using low-carb substitutes where necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the hot dogs and chili in the baking dish, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
2. How should I store leftovers?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
- Yes, you can freeze the assembled and baked chili cheese dogs. Wrap each one individually in aluminum foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.
4. What sides go well with Chili Cheese Dog Bake?
- Serve with a side of coleslaw, corn on the cob, or a fresh green salad. French fries or tater tots are also great accompaniments.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese or whatever you have on hand. Pepper jack, mozzarella, and Swiss are all great options.
The Chili Cheese Dog Bake Dinner is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together all the flavors of a classic chili cheese dog in a convenient casserole form. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or any time you’re craving something hearty and delicious. With its versatility and the option to customize to your dietary needs, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy the gooey cheese, savory chili, and satisfying crunch of the garlic-buttered buns in every bite!
