Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Fully Loaded Classic Chili Cheese Dog Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Bake


  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x

Description

Juicy hot dogs peek through a bubbling layer of sharp cheddar, all nestled into a thick, flavorful base of homemade beef chili. This nostalgic one-pan dinner brings bold, comforting flavors that are perfect for weeknight meals or casual gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ lb ground beef
  • 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 12 beef or turkey hot dogs
  • 3 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
  3. Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, kidney beans, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
  4. Spread the chili mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  5. Place the hot dogs vertically into the chili mixture, spaced evenly.
  6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly over the top, allowing hot dog tips to show.
  7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted and lightly browned and hot dogs are blistered.
  8. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For a spicier version, add diced jalapeño or cayenne to the chili. Use black beans or pinto beans as a variation. Vegetarian hot dogs can be substituted easily.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 980mg
  • Fat: 36g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg