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This loaded comfort casserole will transport you right back. Sink your teeth into plump hot dogs buried under homemade beef chili and gooey cheddar Straight-up happiness in a one-pan meal I whip up on my wildest nights. Zero headache yet every bite bursts with old-school flavor
Soon as I plop this out, my whole crew’s already crowding around before it’s even cool. First time I made it? The guys gobbled it during football night Now it’s on regular dinner repeat whenever we want something cheering and quick
Tasty Ingredients
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Grate off a block for the best melt and punchy taste
- Beef or turkey hot dogs: Grab real beef or turkey ones for awesome snap and classic chili dog bite
- Salt and black pepper: Season to taste and use fresh cracked pepper if you’ve got it
- Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky vibe. Try Spanish smoked paprika if you see it
- Garlic powder and onion powder: These keep things cozy and deepen the meatiness
- Chili powder: Mild or spicy, pick the blend you like
- Tomato paste: Makes the sauce thick and extra flavorful—double concentrate is awesome
- Tomato sauce: Plain, no-salt tomato sauce is best for a nice base and less saltiness
- Kidney beans: Use canned to save time. Rinse and drain for a hearty, toothsome bite
- Ground beef: Choose some with marbling for juicer, rich chili and tender bites
Simple How-To Steps
- Cool and Serve:
- Wait five minutes before cutting in and serving This way it holds together and the tastes blend
- Bake and Finish:
- Pop your pan in the oven and bake for twenty to twenty five minutes until the cheese is bubbly turning golden and the dogs get just a hint of browning
- Add the Cheese:
- Shower cheddar on top but let those hot dog ends show—they should poke through for that classic look
- Arrange Hot Dogs:
- Stick your dogs straight up in the chili so there’s a little space between them—a tighter fit just gives you crispier tips
- Assemble in Baking Dish:
- Spoon your hot chili mix into your greased dish and spread it out flat right to the sides
- Build the Chili Base:
- Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, beans, garlic and onion powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Drop the heat to medium Let it simmer for ten to fifteen minutes Stir it up until thick and blended
- Brown the Beef:
- Crumble your ground beef in a hot pan over medium-high Cook until you don’t see any pink—about seven minutes Break it up as you go and pour off the extra grease so it’s not heavy
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Heat your oven to 375 F 190 C Give a nine by thirteen inch pan a quick grease so nothing sticks
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My favorite thing is that golden cheddar layer—never fails to turn stretchy and perfect My kids fight for the corner pieces with extra cheese We love to toast leftovers the next morning and they still taste spot on
Storing Leftovers
Just cover and stash this in the fridge for up to four days—or pop it in the freezer up to two months. Tip: cut it into servings before freezing for simple reheating. Later just warm up slices in a covered pan at 350 F till the cheese melts and it’s heated through
Easy Ingredient Switches
Change out beef for chicken or turkey if you want it lighter. For veggie eaters, go with your go-to plant-based dogs and ground crumbles. Kidney beans easy to swap for black beans or pintos—whatever you have
Best Ways to Serve
Crumble tortilla chips or toss chopped onions right on top for an old-school finish Other tasty add-ons? Sour cream, a dash of pickled onions, or fresh jalapeño slices On the side, keep it fresh with a green salad or serve with corn if it’s in season
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Backstory and Traditions
Chili cheese dogs are every bit American From ballparks to family cookouts, folks know these flavors This one-pan dish is my way to bring that same joy home—no grill or extra mess Just fun dinnertime with all the feel-good memories
FAQs About the Recipe
- → Is it okay to use another kind of bean?
Totally, both pinto and black beans are nice swaps and change the flavor a little bit in the chili.
- → What if I want more heat?
Throw in some diced fresh jalapeño or sprinkle a little cayenne into your chili before baking to really spice things up.
- → Can I make it without meat?
Absolutely! Use veggie dogs instead and double up on beans or put in a meat alternative instead of beef.
- → Which cheese is best for the topping?
Sharp cheddar melts great, but you can try Colby, Monterey Jack, or mix a few for some extra flavor fun.
- → Could I prep this in advance?
You sure can. Just put it together up until baking, cover, and keep it chilled. When you’re ready, bake it—add a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.