Chili Cheese Dog Bake Dinner
This chili cheese dog bake is a fun and hearty twist on the classic chili cheese dog, perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering.
With the comforting flavors of hot dogs, chili, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
The soft hot dog buns are buttered and seasoned, then filled with savory hot dogs, rich chili, and gooey cheddar cheese, all baked together to create a deliciously satisfying meal.
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
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure the bake cooks evenly. While the oven heats, place the hot dog buns on a baking sheet and brush them with the melted butter.
Be sure to coat the buns evenly, giving them a golden and flavorful crust once baked. Once the buns are buttered.
sprinkle the minced garlic and fresh parsley evenly over the tops for a burst of aroma and freshness.
Next, cut the hot dogs in half and place them in the buns. You can either leave the hot dogs whole or slice them into pieces depending on your preference.
but halving them makes for a better distribution across the dish. After positioning the hot dogs, spoon the chili over each one, making sure it covers the entire surface of the buns.
You can use either chili with beans or without, depending on your personal taste or dietary preferences.
Once the chili is spread, lay a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each hot dog, letting the cheese melt perfectly over the chili and hot dogs as it bakes.
Make sure to cover the hot dogs completely with the cheese for that classic gooey finish. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the buns are toasted and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
After removing the dish from the oven, let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional parsley to add a touch of color and freshness.
This chili cheese dog bake is best enjoyed right away when the cheese is still warm and gooey.
For extra flavor, consider adding a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or a sprinkle of onion powder on top before baking.
The combination of the savory chili and the rich cheese with the soft buns makes each bite a comforting delight.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of fries, chips, or even a simple salad to balance out the richness of the bake.
How to Make
To begin, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking sheet by placing the hot dog buns on it. Brush each bun generously with the melted butter to create a rich golden base.
For added flavor, sprinkle minced garlic and fresh parsley over the buttered buns to infuse them with savory goodness.
Once the buns are ready, insert the hot dogs inside each bun. Feel free to slice the hot dogs in half for better distribution across the bake.
Spoon a generous amount of chili over each hot dog, ensuring it covers the hot dog entirely. You can choose chili with or without beans, depending on your preference or dietary needs.
After layering the chili, top each hot dog with a slice of cheddar cheese. This will melt beautifully as the bake cooks, creating a comforting cheesy topping.
Once assembled, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned.
Remove the chili cheese dog bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with more fresh parsley for a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.
Serve immediately, and enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for casual dinners or family get-togethers.
This dish is incredibly easy to customize with your favorite chili, and you can experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack or mozzarella, for variation.
It’s a perfect go-to recipe for busy nights when you want something filling and delicious without too much hassle.
Variations
If you’re looking to give this chili cheese dog bake a twist, consider experimenting with different types of hot dogs.
For instance, turkey or chicken dogs offer a lighter option, while veggie dogs provide a plant-based alternative.
For a spicier version, you can swap the cheddar cheese for pepper jack cheese, or add a few jalapeño slices to the chili before topping it with cheese.
This will give the bake a kick of heat that’s perfect for spice lovers.
Another variation to try is adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the chili, which will add sweetness and depth to the overall flavor.
This is especially great if you enjoy a bit of crunch and extra veggie goodness in your dish.
For those who enjoy a smokier flavor, consider adding a few dashes of smoked paprika or a tablespoon of barbecue sauce to the chili before baking.
This will infuse the bake with a rich, smoky undertone that pairs wonderfully with the hot dogs and cheese.
To make this dish even heartier, you can top it with crispy bacon bits after it’s finished baking. The salty, crunchy bacon adds a satisfying contrast to the gooey cheese and savory chili.
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, swap out the regular hot dog buns for gluten-free buns.
There are many good gluten-free alternatives on the market that will hold up well in this recipe.
For a lighter version, try using a turkey or lean beef chili, or even skip the cheese entirely and opt for a drizzle of sour cream or avocado for a fresh and creamy topping.
Tips
For the perfect chili cheese dog bake, make sure your hot dog buns are fresh but not overly soft. A sturdier bun will hold up better to the chili and cheese without becoming soggy.
If you’re making this dish ahead of time, you can assemble everything up to the point of baking and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Just be sure to give it an extra few minutes in the oven since it will be chilled when you start baking.
To ensure your cheese melts beautifully, be sure to use slices of cheddar cheese rather than shredded cheese. The slices melt more evenly and will create a smoother topping for the chili dogs.
If you prefer a crispier top, you can broil the chili cheese dog bake for the last 2-3 minutes of baking to achieve a golden, bubbly crust. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a pinch of salt and pepper to the chili before spreading it over the hot dogs.
This will enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.
Consider adding a side of pickles or coleslaw for some contrast to the richness of the chili cheese dog bake. These sides provide a refreshing crunch and balance out the meal nicely.
Lastly, make sure to use a good-quality chili. A flavorful, well-seasoned chili is the backbone of this dish, so choosing one that’s rich and hearty will make all the difference.
Conclusion
This chili cheese dog bake is a simple, comforting dish that combines the best of a classic chili cheese dog in an easy-to-make casserole form.
Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a casual gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit with its gooey cheese, savory chili, and tender hot dogs.
It’s versatile, customizable, and perfect for any occasion, making it an excellent addition to your weeknight dinner rotation or party menu.