👉ChiliCheeseDog Casserole – Recipes on a Budget

Chili Cheese Dog Casserole

Description:
This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is a fun, easy, and delicious twist on the classic chili cheese dog. Perfect for busy nights or casual get-togethers, this casserole combines the savory goodness of hot dogs, chili, and melted cheddar cheese, all tucked under a golden crescent roll crust. It’s quick to make, hearty, and sure to please everyone at the table!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

8 hot dogs
1 can of chili (15 oz)
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
1 can of crescent roll dough (8 oz)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Slice the hot dogs into bite-sized pieces and evenly distribute them in the prepared baking dish.
Pour the entire can of chili over the sliced hot dogs, spreading it out evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the chili mixture.
Unroll the crescent roll dough and place it over the chili and cheese, covering the entire casserole.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crescent roll dough is golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, and serve hot!

Variations:

Add onions or bell peppers: Dice some onions or bell peppers and sauté them before adding to the casserole for extra flavor.
Spicy Chili Cheese Dog Casserole: Add a can of diced green chilies or a few jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Bacon Lovers: Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the casserole for added crunch and smokiness.
Cheese Variations: Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a twist on the classic cheddar.
Healthier version: Use turkey or chicken hot dogs and low-fat cheese to reduce calories, or swap out the crescent roll dough for a healthier option like whole wheat dough.
Vegetarian version: Use veggie dogs and a plant-based chili to make this casserole vegetarian-friendly.

Serving Tips:

Top with sour cream: Serve with a dollop of sour cream for a cool, creamy contrast to the hot and cheesy casserole.
Serve with a side salad: A simple green salad or coleslaw pairs perfectly with the richness of the casserole.
Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro to add freshness and color.
Serve with extra chili on the side if you like your casserole extra saucy.

20 FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions):

Can I use other types of hot dogs? Yes! Feel free to use beef, chicken, turkey, or even plant-based hot dogs.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time if baking from the fridge.
Can I use homemade chili instead of canned? Absolutely! Homemade chili will work just as well as canned chili.
Can I substitute the crescent roll dough? You can use biscuit dough or even pizza dough if you prefer.
Is there a way to make this casserole spicier? Yes! Add diced jalapeños, spicy chili, or red pepper flakes to amp up the heat.
Can I make this casserole without cheese? While cheese is a key part of this recipe, you can omit it or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.
How do I know when the crescent dough is cooked? The crescent roll dough should be golden brown and cooked through. You can check by gently lifting a corner and ensuring the dough is not raw.
Can I use frozen hot dogs? Yes, but thaw them out before using them in the casserole for the best texture and even cooking.
Can I use chili with beans? Yes! Chili with beans will work, but it may make the casserole a little thicker.
Can I freeze leftover casserole? Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It will keep for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat frozen casserole? To reheat, bake the frozen casserole in a 350°F oven for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe if you need to serve more people. Just make sure your baking dish is large enough.
Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or a cheddar blend.
What type of chili is best for this casserole? Use your favorite chili! A thick, meaty chili works best, but any canned or homemade chili will do.
Can I add other toppings? Yes, try adding chopped onions, pickles, or even jalapeños on top after baking for extra flavor and crunch.
Is this casserole kid-friendly? Yes! It’s a great family meal, and kids love the cheesy, savory combination.
Can I use a smaller baking dish? Yes, a smaller dish may work, but be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly.
How long does the casserole last in the fridge? Leftovers will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
What should I serve this casserole with? This casserole is filling on its own, but you can serve it with a side of chips, a green salad, or some roasted veggies.
Can I add beans to the casserole? Yes, you can add cooked kidney beans, black beans, or chili beans to the casserole for extra texture.

20 Best Tips to Make the Best Chili Cheese Dog Casserole:

Use high-quality hot dogs for the best flavor.
Don’t overcook the crescent dough—watch for golden brown edges and a fully cooked center.
Add extra cheese to make it extra gooey and indulgent.
Sprinkle the cheese halfway through baking if you want it to stay melty but not too crispy.
Use a non-stick baking dish for easier cleanup.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
Sprinkle some chili powder over the top for a flavorful, savory finish.
Use a good quality chili for the best taste.
Add a drizzle of ranch dressing or sour cream for extra creaminess.
For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2 minutes of baking.
Cut the hot dogs into even pieces for consistent cooking and flavor distribution.
Try adding cornmeal to the dough to add a little crunch to the crust.
Use a deep baking dish to prevent the casserole from overflowing.
Consider adding a little bit of mustard to the chili for an added tangy flavor.
Use fresh garlic or onions in the chili for a burst of flavor.
Toss some bacon bits into the chili for added smokiness and crunch.
Serve immediately after baking for the best texture and flavor.
Use extra-lean hot dogs if you’re looking to cut down on fat content.
Be careful with the chili’s spice level—you can always add more heat, but you can’t take it away.
Top with fresh chopped green onions or cilantro for a fresh, vibrant garnish.