If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than this Chili Cheese Dog Casserole. It takes all the crave-worthy flavors of a classic chili cheese dog—savory beef, tangy beans, gooey cheese, pillowy crescent rolls, and snappy hot dogs—and transforms them into a bubbly, cheesy casserole that’s easy enough for busy weeknights and exciting enough for a weekend treat with friends. With barely any prep and simple pantry staples, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing meal ready in a snap!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is all about keeping it simple without sacrificing flavor or fun. Each ingredient pulls its weight to build a casserole loaded with texture, color, and rich, comforting tastes that everyone at the table will love.
- Olive oil: A touch in the skillet keeps everything from sticking and adds richness to the onions and garlic.
- Yellow onion (diced): Brings gentle sweetness and a nice bite as the casserole bakes.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Fresh garlic gives depth and an irresistible aroma.
- Ground beef: The heart of the casserole—hearty, flavorful, and filling!
- Chili beans (undrained): Adds creaminess, protein, and those Southern chili vibes, while the sauce thickens everything up.
- Tomato sauce: Brightens the chili base and brings the whole casserole together.
- Chili powder: Turns up the flavor with warmth and a little kick.
- Ground cumin: Gives that earthy, Tex-Mex note that takes the casserole up a notch.
- Salt and pepper: Don’t forget to season to taste; every layer needs a little love.
- Hot dogs (sliced into thirds): The star ingredient—savory, nostalgic, and perfectly bite-sized throughout.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the top for that gooey, picture-perfect finish.
- Refrigerated crescent roll dough: Lays across the casserole like a pillowy blanket (so easy and so good!).
- Melted butter: Brushed over the dough for extra golden flavor and shine.
- Garlic powder: Sprinkled on top for even more irresistible aroma and taste.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh, bright finish that makes everything pop (and looks gorgeous, too).
How to Make Chili Cheese Dog Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by setting your oven to 375°F to ensure it’s hot and ready by the time your casserole is assembled. That little boost of heat guarantees your crescent dough will bake up golden and crisp on top while everything inside gets bubbly and delicious.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Grab your biggest skillet and warm up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and let it cook for about three minutes, just until it’s soft and starts to turn translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another quick 30 seconds—this quick step is the foundation for big, bold flavor in your Chili Cheese Dog Casserole.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet with your onions and garlic, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns. Cook until you see no more pink and everything looks nicely crumbled. If there’s extra fat, go ahead and drain it off for a less greasy casserole base.
Step 4: Build the Chili Mixture
Stir in the undrained chili beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, and just the right amount of salt and pepper. Let this simmer for about five minutes, letting all those zesty flavors meld and the sauce thicken into a rich, savory chili. The aroma alone will have everyone peeking into the kitchen!
Step 5: Assemble in the Baking Dish
Transfer your chili mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer. This creates a hearty bed for everything else that’s coming next in your Chili Cheese Dog Casserole adventure.
Step 6: Top with Crescent Dough and Hot Dogs
Unroll your crescent dough and gently stretch it to cover most of the chili layer. You want to cover as much as possible, but don’t stress about perfection—the dough will puff and fill out in the oven. Arrange the sliced hot dogs evenly across the top for picture-perfect bites in every serving.
Step 7: Butter, Season, and Bake
Brush the exposed crescent dough with melted butter, then sprinkle with garlic powder. This simple combo creates a golden, flavorful crust. Pop the whole pan in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the dough is puffed and beautifully golden brown.
Step 8: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Pull the casserole out and sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese. Return to the oven for just 3 to 5 minutes more, until the cheese is gorgeously melted. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top once it comes out adds bright color and makes the casserole feel a little extra special.
How to Serve Chili Cheese Dog Casserole
Garnishes
Let your Chili Cheese Dog Casserole shine with a handful of chopped parsley for freshness, but you could also go wild with sliced green onions, diced jalapeños, or even some crunchy fried onions for a playful twist. Served warm, the melted cheese pulls and gooey chili are absolute perfection!
Side Dishes
Keep things classic with a crisp coleslaw, a tangy green salad, or maybe some simple roasted veggies on the side. These help balance out the richness of the dish, making your meal feel complete and not overly heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the casserole into big, generous squares or slice it into hearty wedges. For parties or game days, try scooping smaller portions into bowls and letting everyone top their serving with jalapeños, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips. This casserole is a real crowd-pleaser, and kids especially love building their own “loaded” slice!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, tightly cover your baking dish or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator, and the Chili Cheese Dog Casserole will keep for up to 3 days without losing flavor or texture.
Freezing
This casserole is also a freezer superstar! Cool completely before wrapping well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Stash in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve all that dreamy texture.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your leftover portions of Chili Cheese Dog Casserole covered, in a 350°F oven until warmed through (about 15–20 minutes). The microwave is totally fine for single servings—just keep an eye out so the dough doesn’t get too tough. Add a fresh sprinkle of cheese on top for a second dose of melty goodness.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or plant-based hot dogs in this recipe?
Absolutely! Both turkey and plant-based hot dogs work wonderfully in this casserole, making it easy to adapt for lighter or vegetarian diets while keeping all the classic Chili Cheese Dog Casserole flavors everyone loves.
How can I make my casserole spicier?
If you like it hot, add diced jalapeños to the chili base or stir in a little hot sauce. You can even use spicy chili beans or pepper jack cheese for an extra fiery kick throughout your Chili Cheese Dog Casserole.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead for a party?
Definitely. You can fully assemble the casserole (before baking) and pop it into the fridge for up to 24 hours ahead. When you’re ready to eat, bake as directed—just add a few extra minutes since it’ll be going in cold.
What’s the best way to serve this casserole to kids?
Kids usually love this recipe! Serve up smaller portions, and try providing toppings like extra cheese, ketchup, or even crushed chips on the side so they can customize their own Chili Cheese Dog Casserole slice.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap in a gluten-free crescent dough (or even gluten-free pizza dough), and make sure your hot dogs, chili beans, and all seasonings are certified gluten-free. The result is just as delicious and every bit as satisfying.
Final Thoughts
This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is comfort food at its best—cheesy, savory, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a fun dish to bring to your next gathering, it’s impossible to go wrong with this one. Go ahead, give it a try, and get ready for plenty of happy, satisfied smiles around the table!
Print
Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that combines the flavors of a classic chili cheese dog in a convenient casserole form. A hearty and flavorful meal that the whole family will love!
Ingredients
Main Chili Mixture:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (15-ounce) can chili beans, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients:
- 8 hot dogs, sliced into thirds
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Sauté onions and beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet, sauté onions, add garlic, then brown the ground beef.
- Prepare chili mixture: Add chili beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
- Assemble casserole: Spread chili mixture in a baking dish, top with crescent dough, arrange hot dog slices, brush with butter, sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Bake: Bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
- Finish: Sprinkle with cheddar cheese, bake for an additional 3–5 minutes until melted. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey or plant-based hot dogs for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
- This casserole pairs well with a side of coleslaw or a green salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 485
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 1110mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
