Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe is the ultimate all-American comfort food in one pan. Instead of juggling messy chili dogs when feeding a crowd, this dish layers juicy hot dogs, zesty chili, fluffy cornbread, and melted cheddar into a cheesy, hearty bake. It captures everything you love about chili dogs but in a simple, family-friendly casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game-day feasts.

I still remember the first time I made this casserole for a family game night. Everyone was expecting hot dogs on buns, but when I pulled out a golden, gooey casserole topped with melted cheddar, the room went quiet for a moment—then erupted in cheers. It’s that kind of dish: nostalgic, easy, and irresistibly satisfying.

This recipe combines a soft cornbread base, smoky hot dogs, zesty chili, sautéed vegetables, and layers of gooey cheddar cheese. Every bite is the perfect balance of sweetness from the cornbread, savoriness from the chili, and indulgence from the melted cheese. Best of all, it’s budget-friendly, family-approved, and comes together with minimal effort.

If you’re a fan of fun comfort recipes, you’ll also love our Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs or this cozy Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe for your next family gathering.

Ingredients for Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this crowd-pleasing dish together:

• Cornbread base

  • 1 box (8.5 oz) cornbread or muffin mix

• Hot dog filling

  • 4–6 hot dogs, chopped

  • 1 can chili with beans

• Veggies

  • ½ green bell pepper, diced

  • ½ onion, diced

  • 1 celery stalk, diced

• Seasonings

  • 1 tbsp brown sugar

  • ½ tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp chili powder

• Cheese topping

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

• Cooking oil

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe – 7 Cheesy Comfort Layers You’ll Love

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Start with the crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch baking dish. Prepare the cornbread batter according to the package directions and spread half of the batter into the dish. This forms the delicious base layer.

2. Sauté the veggies

In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced green bell pepper, onion, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until crisp-tender and fragrant.

3. Add the hot dogs

Toss in the chopped hot dogs and cook for another 3–4 minutes, letting them brown slightly to enhance their flavor.

4. Chili magic

Mix in the canned chili, brown sugar, garlic powder, and chili powder. Stir well to combine and let it heat through. Stir in ¾ cup of the cheddar cheese for an extra creamy, cheesy filling.

5. Layer & top

Spoon the chili-hot dog mixture evenly over the cornbread base. Pour the remaining cornbread batter on top and spread gently. Sprinkle with the last ¼ cup of cheddar cheese.

6. Bake & serve

Bake uncovered for 28–32 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the cornbread layer comes out clean. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving warm.

Tips & Variations

• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or swap chili powder for cayenne pepper.

• Cheese overload: Use a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and pepper jack for extra gooeyness.

• Vegetarian version: Use meatless hot dogs and vegetarian chili for a plant-based twist.

• Tex-Mex twist: Top with diced tomatoes, black olives, and sour cream before serving.

• Kid-friendly: Slice hot dogs into bite-sized pieces so little ones can enjoy it easily.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Wrap portions tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.

• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F or in the microwave until heated through.

Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Servings: 6

Tools Used

• 8-inch baking dish

• Mixing bowls

• Skillet

• Wooden spoon

• Whisk

FAQ

Q1: Can I use homemade chili instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade chili works beautifully here—just make sure it’s slightly thick so it doesn’t make the casserole watery.

Q2: Can I use crescent roll dough instead of cornbread?
Yes, crescent roll dough can be used for a buttery, flaky crust instead of cornbread.

Final Thoughts –Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe

This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole Recipe is proof that comfort food can be fun, creative, and family-friendly all in one. With smoky hot dogs, zesty chili, sweet cornbread, and melty cheddar cheese, it’s a dish that brings nostalgia and joy to any table.

Serve it for game night, a weekend dinner, or a potluck—it’s guaranteed to be the first dish to disappear. Pair it with a crisp salad or refreshing Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad for balance, and finish the meal with a sweet treat like Pineapple Juice Cake.

For even more creative inspiration, explore Delish and AllRecipes—you’ll find endless ideas to keep mealtime exciting and comforting.