Chili Cheese Dog Casserole: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Family Dinners

Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is a delightful twist on two classic comfort foods that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. This dish combines the savory flavors of chili and the beloved hot dog, all enveloped in a cheesy, gooey goodness that is hard to resist. Originating from the heart of American cuisine, this casserole has become a favorite at potlucks, family gatherings, and game day celebrations.

What I love most about Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is its incredible versatility and ease of preparation. It’s a dish that not only pleases the palate with its rich, hearty flavors but also offers a delightful texture that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this casserole is a convenient option that never disappoints. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a staple in your home!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) chili (with or without beans, your choice)
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 hot dogs, sliced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions (for garnish)
• Optional: sour cream and jalapeños for serving

Preparing the Meat Mixture

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet. I usually tilt the skillet and use a spoon to help remove the fat without losing too much meat.
3. Add the chili, tomato sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Preparing the Hot Dogs

1. While the meat mixture is simmering, take your hot dogs and slice them into bite-sized pieces. I like to cut them into about 1-inch pieces for a good balance in each bite.
2. Once the meat mixture has simmered, add the sliced hot dogs to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. This will warm the hot dogs through and allow them to soak up some of the chili flavor.

Assembling the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is important to ensure that the casserole cooks evenly.
2. Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and spray it lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. Open the package of crescent roll dough. Unroll it and lay it out in the bottom of the baking dish. I like to press the seams together to create a solid base. This will be the crust of our casserole.
4. Spread the meat and hot dog mixture evenly over the crescent roll dough. Make sure to cover the dough completely so it cooks properly.
5. Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the meat mixture. I love the combination of these two cheeses for that melty, gooey goodness!

Baking the Casserole

1. Once everything is assembled, place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the crescent roll dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
2. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to ensure it doesn’t over-brown. If the cheese starts to get too dark, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
3. When the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. This will help it set a bit and make it easier to serve.

Serving the Casserole

1. Using a spatula, cut the casserole into squares and serve it on plates. I like to garnish each serving with a sprinkle of sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
2. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a dollop of sour cream and some sliced jalapeños on top for an extra kick!
3. This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crispy tortilla chips for a complete meal.

Storing Leftovers

1. If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to

Conclusion:

In wrapping up this delightful journey through the Chili Cheese Dog Casserole recipe, I can confidently say that this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their comfort food game. The combination of savory chili, gooey cheese, and hearty hot dogs nestled in a warm, satisfying casserole is simply irresistible. It’s the perfect meal for family gatherings, game day celebrations, or even a cozy night in when you want something that feels like a warm hug. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this casserole with a side of crispy coleslaw or a fresh garden salad to balance out the richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite toppings like jalapeños, diced onions, or even a dollop of sour cream. You could also swap out the hot dogs for turkey or veggie dogs to cater to different dietary preferences, making this dish versatile and inclusive. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Chili Cheese Dog Casserole a try! I promise it will become a staple in your household, just as it has in mine. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience—did you add any unique twists? How did your family enjoy it? Share your thoughts and variations in the comments below or on social media. Let’s spread the love for this delicious casserole together!

Print