Fully Loaded Classic Chili Cheese Dog Casserole
Ingredients:
- 8 hot dogs
- 8 hot dog buns (or 6 large, split in half)
- 2 cups chili (homemade or canned, no beans if you want it classic)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar & mozzarella)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- ½ cup pickled jalapeños (optional, for heat)
- ¼ cup yellow mustard
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven
Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Prepare the Hot Dogs
- Slice buns open (if not already split) and place them in the dish.
- Add a hot dog into each bun.
- Layer the Chili
Spoon the chili generously over the hot dogs, making sure it seeps into the buns. - Add the Toppings
- Drizzle ketchup and mustard over the chili layer.
- Sprinkle diced onion and jalapeños evenly on top.
- Cover with shredded cheese.
- Season & Bake
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder and paprika. Brush over exposed bun tops.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Serve
Remove from oven, sprinkle with parsley or green onions, and serve hot.
Tips & Variations:
- Extra loaded: Add crumbled bacon before baking.
- Tex-Mex twist: Top with sour cream and crushed tortilla chips before serving.
- Spicy kick: Mix a little hot sauce into your chili layer.