Introduction
This Chili Cheese Dog Bake Dinner is a comforting, family-friendly meal that combines classic chili dogs with a warm, cheesy baked casserole twist. It’s easy to assemble, uses simple ingredients, and delivers bold, savory flavors that make it perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or game day.
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Ingredients
For the Bake
6 hot dogs
6 hot dog buns (or 1 can refrigerated crescent dough)
2 cups canned chili (with or without beans)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (optional for extra melt)
2 tablespoons melted butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, diced onions, green onions, sour cream
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Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread the chili evenly across the bottom of a baking dish.
3. Prepare the hot dogs: place each hot dog inside a bun (or wrap each in crescent dough).
4. Arrange the hot dogs over the chili in the baking dish.
5. Brush the tops with melted butter mixed with garlic powder and onion powder.
6. Sprinkle cheddar cheese and mozzarella evenly over the top.
7. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
8. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
10. Add desired toppings and serve warm.
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Description
This bake combines the hearty, savory flavors of chili and the nostalgic charm of chili cheese dogs into one warm, comforting casserole. Soft buns soak up the chili, hot dogs stay juicy, and the cheese melts into a bubbling, golden layer that holds everything together. It’s simple, satisfying, and ideal for feeding a crowd with minimal effort.
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Tips
Toast the buns lightly before baking if you prefer a less soft texture.
Use high-quality sausages or all-beef hot dogs for the best flavor.
Add a little extra chili between the hot dogs for a richer, saucier bake.
For crispier crescent dough, bake uncovered longer during the final stage.
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Variations
Spicy Version: Add jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, or a dash of hot sauce.
BBQ Chili Dog Bake: Mix a little barbecue sauce into the chili.
Loaded Version: Add diced onions, bacon bits, or pickled peppers before baking.
Veggie Version: Replace hot dogs with vegetarian sausages and use meatless chili.
Tex-Mex Style: Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning to the chili, and top with Monterey Jack cheese.
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Correction
If your bake comes out too soggy, reduce the amount of chili under the buns or lightly toast the buns before assembling. If it feels too dry, add more chili or cheese. Adjust baking time depending on your oven and how browned you prefer your top layer.
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Enjoy
Serve your Chili Cheese Dog Bake hot and melty straight from the oven. It pairs perfectly with a side salad, fries, or coleslaw. Enjoy a comforting, flavorful dinner that delivers all the taste of classic chili dogs in one easy baked dish.