Fully Loaded Classic Chili Cheese Dog Casserole

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This casserole is the ultimate comfort food mash-up: juicy hot dogs, hearty chili, gooey cheese, and crispy baked topping all layered into one dish. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for game day, family dinners, or potlucks, and guaranteed to satisfy cravings for classic American flavors in every bite.

⏱️ Prep Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

🍳 Equipment

9×13 inch baking dish
Large skillet
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

For the Chili:

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional: ½ tsp cayenne pepper (for heat)

For the Casserole:

8 hot dogs, sliced into ½-inch pieces
6 cups frozen tater tots (or diced hashbrowns)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup diced pickles (optional, for topping)
¼ cup diced onions (optional, for topping)
Mustard and ketchup, for serving

🧄 Ingredient Notes

Hot dogs: Use your favorite brand—beef, pork, or even vegetarian dogs work well.
Chili: Homemade or canned chili can work; this recipe makes a simple, classic chili from scratch.
Tater tots: Crispy tater tots add great texture; hashbrowns can be used for a softer option.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds tang, mozzarella adds meltiness.

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Make the Chili

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
Add diced onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Cook 1 minute.
Add kidney beans and tomato sauce, stir well. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.

2. Assemble the Casserole

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large baking dish, spread tater tots in an even layer on the bottom.
Layer sliced hot dogs evenly over the tater tots.
Pour chili evenly over hot dogs and tater tots.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella evenly on top.

3. Bake

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and tater tots are crispy.
For extra crispiness, you can broil for 2-3 minutes at the end—watch carefully to prevent burning.

4. Serve

Optional: Top with diced pickles and onions for that classic chili dog crunch.
Serve with mustard and ketchup drizzles for the full chili dog experience.

🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, approx.)

Calories: 550
Protein: 28g
Fat: 35g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 1100mg

💡 Tips & Variations

🔪 Tips

Make ahead: Assemble the casserole a few hours ahead and refrigerate; bake just before serving.
Crispier topping: Toss tater tots with a little olive oil before layering for extra crunch.
Cheese: Feel free to use a mix of cheeses—Monterey Jack or pepper jack adds a nice twist.