Description
Comfort meets indulgence in this irresistible Chili Cheese Dog Casserole, where classic American flavors collide in a hearty dish. Layers of saucy chili, juicy hot dogs, and melted cheese create a crowd-pleasing meal you’ll crave time and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 8 hot dogs
Bread Base:
- 8 hot dog buns, split open
Sauce and Cheese:
- 2 cups (480 ml / 16 fluid ounces) chili (homemade or canned)
- 2 cups (200 grams) shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
Garnish (optional):
- Diced onions
- Pickled jalapenos
- Mustard or ketchup
Instructions
- Ignite the oven’s temperature to a robust 375F (190C), creating the perfect culinary environment for this hearty creation.
- Transform hot dogs into delectable bite-sized morsels, optionally caramelizing them in a sizzling pan to develop a rich, smoky essence.
- Craft a robust chili foundation by melding ground protein with aromatic beans, tangy tomato sauce, and a symphony of spices like cumin and paprika, allowing the mixture to simmer and intensify its flavor profile for 10-15 minutes.
- Construct the casserole’s base layer by spreading the aromatic chili across a generously greased baking vessel, strategically positioning the sliced hot dog pieces to ensure maximum flavor distribution.
- Blanket the chili and hot dogs with a luxurious cascade of shredded cheese, creating a molten golden landscape that promises indulgent texture.
- Prepare the biscuit or cornbread topping according to package wisdom, gently layering the mixture across the cheese-laden surface to create a pillowy, golden crown.
- Slide the assembled masterpiece into the preheated oven, allowing it to transform for 20-25 minutes until the top achieves a golden-brown brilliance and the cheese bubbles with tempting excitement.
- Pause momentarily after removing from the oven, letting the casserole settle and intensify its flavors, then garnish with optional fresh green onions or fiery jalapeños for a final flourish of culinary artistry.
Notes
- Customize the heat level by adding different types of chili peppers or hot sauce to match your spice preference.
- Replace traditional hot dogs with plant-based or turkey options for a healthier protein alternative.
- Enhance flavor complexity by using smoked sausage or chorizo instead of standard hot dogs for a deeper taste profile.
- Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate before baking to develop richer, more integrated flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg