A quick, cheesy chili hot dog casserole made with buns, hot dogs, canned chili, and melty cheddar. Perfect comfort food and a great way to use up extras!
Chili Hot Dog Casserole
This easy chili cheese hot dog casserole is pure comfort food. Made with hot dog buns, sliced hot dogs, canned chili, and melty cheddar cheese, it’s a quick and filling meal the whole family loves. It’s also a great way to use up leftover hot dog buns after a cookout or BBQ.
We love adding chopped green onions for extra flavor, and a spoonful of green relish on top makes it taste just like a chili dog. It’s a fun twist on a classic that comes together in no time and always disappears fast at the dinner table.
Tips for Making Chili Hot Dog Casserole
After making this recipe for my crew over the years, here are some of my favorite tips to help you get the best results.
- Use leftover buns and dogs: This is a great recipe for using up leftover hot dog buns and hot dogs from a cookout.
- Pick your chili: Use your favorite canned chili (with or without beans), or swap in homemade chili if you have some on hand. Whether you prefer ground beef chili or a hearty black bean chili, both work great in this recipe.
- Make it extra crispy: For a little crunch, lightly toast the buns before assembling the casserole or sprinkle fried onions on top before baking.
How to Make Chili Cheese Dog Casserole
Start by placing the hot dog buns into your baking dish, crust side up. Arrange them to fully cover the bottom—it’s okay if you need to squish them a little to make them fit.
Slice the hot dogs into bite-sized pieces and scatter them evenly over the buns.
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the hot dog pieces.
Spoon the chili evenly over the top. Add the chopped green onions for a little extra flavor and color.
Finish with the rest of the shredded cheese on top.
Place the dish in the oven and bake until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to brown around the edges. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving—enjoy!
Storing Leftovers
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual servings for about 1–2 minutes until warm, or place the casserole (covered with foil) in a 350°F oven for about 15–20 minutes until heated through.
Pin for later:
Ooey Gooey Cheesy Chili Dog Casserole
PrintIngredients
- 5 hot dog buns
- 8 hot dogs
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- (2) 15 ounce cans chili (pick your favorite – ground beef or black bean)
- 2 tablespoons green onion finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Place the hot dog buns in the dish, crust side up, arranging them to cover the bottom.
- Slice the hot dogs into bite-sized pieces and scatter them evenly over the buns.
- Sprinkle half of the cheese over the hot dogs, then layer on the chili, green onions, and the rest of the cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving—enjoy!
Mike says
Amazing