Chili Dog Cheesy Bake

Featured in: Cozy Weeknight Dinners

This comforting baked dish combines sliced hot dogs nestled in buttered buns, layered with savory chili, and topped with melted cheddar cheese. Baked until bubbly and golden, it's an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Optional garnishes like fresh chives and sour cream add a bright finish. Variations can include turkey or vegetarian hot dogs and different cheese types for customized flavors.

Updated on Tue, 11 Nov 2025 08:08:00 GMT
Baked Chili Dog Casserole topped with gooey cheddar, perfect for family dinners.  Pin
Baked Chili Dog Casserole topped with gooey cheddar, perfect for family dinners. | crumbkiss.com

A comforting and crowd-pleasing casserole combining classic chili dogs in a baked, cheesy format—perfect for weeknight dinners or game day gatherings.

I have served this casserole multiple times for family gatherings and it never fails to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

  • Beef hot dogs: 8 sliced into 1inch pieces
  • Prepared chili: 2 cups about 450 g homemade or canned with or without beans
  • Yellow onion: 1 small finely chopped
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 ½ cups 170 g
  • Hot dog buns: 6 sliced in half
  • Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon melted
  • Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
  • Chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional): 2 tablespoons
  • Sour cream (optional): 2 tablespoons

Instructions

Step 1:
Preheat oven to 375°F 190°C Grease a 9x13inch 23x33 cm baking dish.
Step 2:
Arrange the halved hot dog buns cutside up in the baking dish Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder.
Step 3:
Scatter sliced hot dogs evenly over the buns.
Step 4:
Sprinkle chopped onion over the hot dogs.
Step 5:
Pour chili evenly over the hot dog mixture.
Step 6:
Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 7:
Bake uncovered for 3035 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly and casserole is heated through.
Step 8:
Remove from oven let cool for 5 minutes then garnish with chives or green onions and dollops of sour cream if desired.
Step 9:
Serve hot.
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This recipe brings everyone together around the table for shared smiles and satisfaction.

Required Tools

9x13inch 23x33 cm baking dish Knife and cutting board Small bowl for butter Pastry brush optional

Allergen Information

Contains wheat hot dog buns dairy cheese butter sour cream possible soy hot dogs and possible gluten chili depending on brand Check all labels if serving those with allergies

Nutritional Information

Calories 440 Total Fat 26 g Carbohydrates 31 g Protein 18 g per serving

Cheesy Chili Dog Casserole ready to serve, with vibrant onions and hot dogs.  Pin
Cheesy Chili Dog Casserole ready to serve, with vibrant onions and hot dogs. | crumbkiss.com

This chili dog casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and is simple enough for any weeknight meal.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use vegetarian hot dogs for this dish?

Yes, substituting with turkey or plant-based hot dogs works well and offers a lighter or vegetarian-friendly alternative.

What cheese can I use besides cheddar?

Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheeses can be used for a different flavor profile while maintaining a creamy melt.

How do I avoid soggy buns in the casserole?

Brushing the buns with melted butter before layering helps create a barrier, keeping them from becoming too soggy during baking.

Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the layers in advance and refrigerate before baking, but allow extra baking time if chilled.

What are suitable garnishes for the finished bake?

Chopped fresh chives or green onions and dollops of sour cream complement the rich layers with fresh and tangy notes.

Chili Dog Cheesy Bake

Baked layers of hot dogs, chili, and cheddar cheese create a warm, cheesy, and flavorful dish.

Prep duration
15 min
Cook duration
35 min
Complete duration
50 min


Complexity Easy

Heritage American

Output 6 Portions

Dietary guidelines None specified

Components

Meats

01 8 beef hot dogs, sliced into 1-inch pieces

Chili

01 2 cups prepared chili (homemade or canned, with or without beans)

Vegetables

01 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped

Dairy

01 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Breads

01 6 hot dog buns, sliced in half

Pantry

01 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
02 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Garnishes (optional)

01 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions
02 2 tablespoons sour cream

Method

Phase 01

Preheat oven and prepare baking dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Phase 02

Prepare buns: Arrange hot dog buns cut-side up in the baking dish. Brush them with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder.

Phase 03

Add hot dogs: Scatter sliced hot dogs evenly over the buttered buns.

Phase 04

Add onion: Sprinkle the finely chopped onion evenly over the hot dogs.

Phase 05

Add chili: Pour prepared chili evenly over the hot dog and onion mixture.

Phase 06

Top with cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chili layer.

Phase 07

Bake: Bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.

Phase 08

Cool and garnish: Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions and dollops of sour cream if desired.

Phase 09

Serve: Serve hot and enjoy.

Necessary tools

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Small bowl for melting butter
  • Pastry brush (optional)

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and consult healthcare providers if you're uncertain.
  • Contains wheat (hot dog buns), dairy (cheese, butter, sour cream), and possible soy and gluten depending on product brands.

Nutritional breakdown (per portion)

These values are approximate guides only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 440
  • Fat: 26 g
  • Carbohydrates: 31 g
  • Protein: 18 g