Print

Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe

Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe

This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is a cozy, cheesy, and hearty comfort food perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring juicy hot dogs, flavorful chili, and melted cheddar cheese baked with bread cubes and onions, this casserole is easy to make, family-friendly, budget-conscious, and fully customizable to suit various tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 8 hot dogs, sliced into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 cups canned chili (or homemade chili)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 6 cups Keystone bread or dinner rolls, cut into cubes
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 tbsp butter, melted (for brushing bread)
  • 2 tbsp mustard, for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Prepare Hot Dogs and Bread: Start by slicing the hot dogs into bite-sized pieces and cutting your bread into cubes. Lightly brush the bread with melted butter for that perfect golden crust after baking.
  2. Mix the Base Layers: Combine the bread cubes, hot dog slices, chopped onions, and a good portion of chili in a large mixing bowl. Stir gently to evenly distribute all ingredients without crushing the bread.
  3. Add the Cheese and Mustard: Pour in a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese and drizzle mustard over the mixture to introduce a sharp, tangy flavor. Give everything one more gentle stir to combine.
  4. Bake Until Bubbling: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is slightly golden.
  5. Let It Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking—this helps it set so you can serve perfect portions every time. Then dive into the cheesy, meaty goodness!

Notes

  • Use day-old bread to soak up the chili better without turning mushy.
  • Choose quality cheese for richer flavor and smoother melt.
  • Don’t overmix; gently fold ingredients to keep bread cubes intact for texture contrast.
  • Cover with foil tent during the first 20 minutes of baking to heat thoroughly without burning.
  • Customize spice level with chili powder or hot sauce according to your family’s preference.

Nutrition

Keywords: chili cheese dog casserole, comfort food, hot dog casserole, cheesy casserole, quick dinner, family meal, easy weeknight recipe