Fully Loaded Classic Chili Cheese Dog Casserole
This Fully Loaded Classic Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is the ultimate comfort food bake! Juicy hot dogs are nestled in a rich, beefy chili base and smothered in a blanket of melty cheddar cheese, all baked together until golden and bubbling. Perfect for game day, casual family dinners, or potlucks!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course / Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Chili Base:
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1½ lb ground beef
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tbsp chili powder
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1 tsp ground cumin
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½ tsp smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Casserole:
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8 hot dogs
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1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
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1 can refrigerated biscuit dough or crescent roll dough (optional for topping)
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Fresh parsley or sliced green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Make the Chili Base:
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In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Drain excess fat.
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Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute.
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Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10 minutes until thickened.
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Assemble the Casserole:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Spread the chili mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Nestle the hot dogs into the chili.
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Sprinkle cheddar cheese generously over the top.
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If using biscuit or crescent dough, arrange pieces around the edges or on top.
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Bake:
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Bake for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and biscuits (if used) are golden.
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Garnish & Serve:
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Sprinkle with parsley or green onions. Serve warm with your favorite toppings like mustard, jalapeños, or sour cream.
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Notes
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Swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based crumbles if preferred.
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Serve with a side of coleslaw or a crisp salad for balance.
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Leftovers reheat well—great for meal prep!