All the flavors of a ballpark chili dog baked into one cheesy, crowd-pleasing casserole!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines savory chili, hot dogs, and melty cheddar in one dish

• Easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd

• Great for game days, family dinners, or casual get-togethers

• Comforting and flavorful with a fun twist on a classic favorite

Ingredients

• 1½ lbs ground beef

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 12 beef or turkey hot dogs

• 3½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings
Calories: ~480 per serving

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Make the Chili Mixture

In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
Drain excess fat from the skillet.
Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, kidney beans, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for 10–15 minutes until the chili thickens slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the chili mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Place the hot dogs vertically into the chili, spacing them evenly across the dish.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, leaving the tips of the hot dogs visible.

Step 4: Bake

Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and the hot dogs are blistered and cooked through.

Step 5: Serve

Remove from the oven and let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute turkey or veggie dogs to suit dietary preferences.

• Add diced onions or jalapeños to the chili for extra flavor and heat.

• Top with crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions for added crunch.

• Serve with sour cream, mustard, or ketchup on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad, corn on the cob, or classic coleslaw for a satisfying meal.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate leftovers covered for up to 3 days.

• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking. Add extra baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Can I use canned beans other than kidney beans?

Yes, black beans or pinto beans work well as substitutes.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Chili Cheese Dog Casserole brings all the fun of chili dogs into a cozy, cheesy bake that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s simple to make, satisfying to eat, and sure to be a hit with family and friends.