If you love the classic flavors of a hot dog with chili and cheese but want to enjoy them in a hearty, comforting dish, this Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It takes all that nostalgia and flavor, blends it with savory ground beef, gooey melted cheeses, and bakes everything inside a flaky crescent roll crust for an unforgettable family dinner. Whether it’s game day, a casual weeknight, or a potluck, this casserole brings warmth, ease, and pure deliciousness to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple pantry staples that combine to create an explosion of flavor and texture in every bite. The ground beef and hot dogs provide hearty meatiness, while the chili and spices add layers of warmth and depth. The cheeses melt perfectly to create that gooey topping, and the crescent roll dough delivers a buttery, flaky base that holds it all together beautifully.
- 1 pound ground beef: Choose lean or regular to suit your preference; browning it well adds rich flavor.
- 1 can (15 oz) chili (with or without beans): Adds a zesty, saucy layer that ties all the savory elements together.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Boosts acidity and moisture, balancing the richness of meat and cheese.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a gentle garlicky warmth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Brings that classic chili heat for extra kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a little bite for balance.
- 8 hot dogs, sliced: The star ingredient that makes this a chili cheese dog casserole rather than just chili.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty for a rich, cheesy layer.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds gooey stretch and mild creaminess.
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough: Your buttery, flaky crust that elevates this dish.
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions (for garnish): Adds freshness and mild crunch at the end.
- Optional: sour cream and jalapeños for serving: Perfect for adding creaminess and spicy zest on the side.
How to Make Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture
Start by browning your ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart so it cooks evenly and absorbs all the delicious seasonings later on. Drain the excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy. Then stir in the chili, tomato sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper, allowing the mixture to simmer and marry those spices beautifully for about five minutes.
Step 2: Add the Hot Dogs
Slice the hot dogs into bite-size rounds and toss them into the meat mixture. Let them cook together for a few minutes so the hot dogs soak up some of that chili flavor, making each bite irresistibly savory and tender.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray for easy release. Unroll your crescent roll dough and press it firmly into the bottom of the dish, sealing the seams to form a cohesive crust. Spread the hot dog and beef mixture evenly over the dough, then shower it with the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, ensuring every corner gets covered in cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Pop your dish into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the crescent dough turns a gorgeous golden brown and the cheese bubbles with anticipation. If the cheese begins to brown too quickly, simply cover loosely with foil to prevent burning. Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes – this helps everything settle and makes serving easier.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Cut into generous squares, garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh pop of color and subtle oniony crunch, and serve with optional sour cream and jalapeños for those who want to add a tangy or spicy twist. This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe is sure to delight everyone around the table.
How to Serve Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your casserole with fresh green onions adds a vibrant splash of color and an extra layer of mild flavor contrast that keeps the dish from feeling too heavy. For added decadence and a creamy touch, dollop some sour cream on top. If you like a spicy finish, sliced jalapeños will spark just the right amount of heat.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a main course, but pairing it with simple sides such as a crisp green salad, crunchy coleslaw, or roasted vegetables balances the richness and adds freshness to your meal. Corn on the cob or baked potato wedges also complement the hearty nature of the casserole beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve each portion in individual ramekins layered with extra cheese on top broiled until golden. Or turn leftovers into loaded nachos by crumbling the casserole over tortilla chips and reheating. This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe adapts well to creativity in presentation, making it a versatile dish beyond the baking pan.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, promptly store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it will stay delicious for up to three days, allowing you to savor more chili cheese dog goodness without any waste.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead or save some for a future meal, this casserole freezes wonderfully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to two months, perfect for busy nights when you crave homemade comfort without the effort.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid the microwave for reheating if you want to maintain that wonderful crust texture and evenly warmed filling.
FAQs
Can I use beef chili with beans or without beans?
Either works great! It depends on your preference. Chili with beans adds a bit of extra texture and fiber, while without beans keeps the dish simpler and more traditional to some styles of chili cheese dogs.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef and hot dogs with plant-based meat alternatives or hearty beans, and it will still be deliciously satisfying.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar and mozzarella are ideal for their meltability and flavor balance, but you can experiment with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy twist.
Is it necessary to use crescent roll dough?
While crescent roll dough creates a perfect flaky crust, you can substitute with biscuit dough or even a simple pizza dough if you prefer a different texture or have dietary preferences.
Can I add extra vegetables to the casserole?
Yes! Diced bell peppers, onions, or corn can be stirred into the meat mixture before baking to boost nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s easy, fun, and endlessly comforting, perfect for bringing people together over a shared love of hearty, cheesy, spicy food. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe rotation, promising smiles and full bellies every time.
Print
Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is a hearty and delicious dish combining ground beef, hot dogs, and a blend of savory spices, all baked in a flaky crescent roll crust and topped with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. It’s perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings, offering a comforting, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Meat and Sauce Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) chili (with or without beans)
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 hot dogs, sliced into 1-inch pieces
Cheese and Dough
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
Garnish and Serving
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions (for garnish)
- Optional: sour cream and jalapeños for serving
Instructions
- Preparing the Meat Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula for about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add chili, tomato sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Preparing the Hot Dogs: Slice the hot dogs into bite-sized 1-inch pieces. Add the sliced hot dogs to the meat mixture and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to heat through and blend flavors.
- Assembling the Casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Unroll the crescent roll dough and press seams together, laying it evenly on the bottom of the baking dish. Spread the meat and hot dog mixture evenly over the dough. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly on top.
- Baking the Casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. If the cheese begins to darken excessively, cover loosely with aluminum foil. Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Serving the Casserole: Cut the casserole into squares and plate. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve with optional sour cream and jalapeños for added flavor.
Notes
- This casserole recipe is versatile; you can add your favorite vegetables or adjust spices to suit personal taste.
- Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 days.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, adding jalapeños directly into the meat mixture works well.
- Make sure to press crescent roll dough seams firmly to avoid gaps during baking.
