Chili Cheese Dog Bake Dinner recipe
Looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both comforting and fun? This Chili Cheese Dog Bake is the perfect solution. Combining cheesy goodness, savory chili, and classic hot dogs, this recipe transforms a family favorite into a deliciously hearty dinner.
The buttery garlic-toasted buns create a crunchy base that’s packed with flavor, while the melted cheddar and rich chili elevate every bite. It’s easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Serve these hot dog boats fresh from the oven for a warm, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a new go-to.
Chili Cheese Dog Bake Ingredients
Hot Dog Buns: These soft, golden buns provide the perfect vessel for holding the rich chili and melted cheese, offering a satisfying, toasty crunch.
Cheddar Cheese: Melting into gooey perfection, cheddar adds a rich, creamy layer that complements the bold, savory flavors of chili and hot dogs.
Chili: Hearty and flavorful, the chili serves as the ultimate comfort ingredient, infusing each bite with warmth and a touch of spice.
Hot Dogs: Classic and juicy, the hot dogs bring a satisfying bite, balancing the creamy cheese and rich chili for an irresistible trio.
Recipe Tips
1. Hollowing the Buns for Less Mess: When you carve out the hot dog buns, make sure to press down on the bread cut-out evenly. This helps create a compact base, offering more space for chili and cheese. It not only makes for easier filling but also prevents the buns from becoming too soggy, helping the dish hold its shape better during baking. This step is key to keeping each bite packed with flavor while maintaining a neat presentation.
2. Toasting for Crispiness: Lightly toasting the garlic-buttered buns before adding the fillings is a game-changer. The brief 5-minute bake firms up the buns’ edges, giving them a golden, crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cheese and chili. Plus, this extra step helps prevent the buns from collapsing under the weight of the chili and hot dogs, ensuring a better overall structure for serving.
3. Choosing the Right Chili: Opt for a thicker chili, either with or without beans, depending on your preference. A thicker consistency helps avoid excessive moisture that can make the buns too soggy. If you’re using canned chili, consider heating it briefly before spooning it into the buns. This ensures that it’s evenly warmed before the final bake and allows the cheese to melt smoothly into the layers, creating a cohesive, melty texture throughout.
What to Serve with Chili Cheese Dog Bake
1. Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp, refreshing garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a light vinaigrette can balance the rich and hearty flavors of the Chili Cheese Dog Bake. The acidity from the vinaigrette cuts through the cheesiness, providing a refreshing contrast that pairs well with this comfort food.
2. Loaded Baked Potato Wedges: For those who crave extra indulgence, serve this dish alongside baked potato wedges topped with sour cream, chives, and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar. The crispy texture of the wedges complements the softness of the hot dog buns, creating a satisfying side that echoes the flavors of the main dish.
3. Creamy Coleslaw: A cool, creamy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that works perfectly with the warmth of the Chili Cheese Dog Bake. The tangy, slightly sweet dressing contrasts with the savory chili and hot dogs, adding a light, refreshing element to each bite.
FAQ
1. Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can swap the cheddar for other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack if you want to add a little spice. Just make sure it’s a good melting cheese to get that ooey-gooey texture.
2. Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the buns with cheese, chili, and hot dogs a few hours before baking. Store them in the fridge, covered, and bake when ready to serve. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
3. What if I don’t have hot dog buns?
If you don’t have hot dog buns, you can use split sub rolls or even sturdy sandwich bread. Just make sure to create a space for the fillings and follow the same steps to compact and toast them for the best results.
4. How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the buns soggy.
Chili Cheese Dog Bake Dinner
Ingredients
- 8 hot dog buns
- 8 hot dogs
- 15 oz chili with or without beans
- 8 slices cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup butter melted
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped, plus additional for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Arrange the 8 hot dog buns, still attached, in a 9 x 13-inch (22 x 33-cm) baking dish. Carefully carve out a rectangular shape in each bun, ensuring that you maintain a 1-centimeter margin from the edges. Gently press down the removed bread pieces to create a compact base within each bun, particularly at the bottom edges. This technique will enhance the space available for the fillings and minimize mess.
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and finely chopped parsley. Brush this flavorful mixture generously over the hollowed-out insides of the buns. Place the buns in the oven to bake for approximately 5 minutes. This toasting process will firm up the sides of the buns, preventing them from collapsing under the weight of the delicious fillings.
- Next, insert a slice of cheddar cheese into each bun, followed by a spoonful of chili. Nestle a hot dog snugly atop the chili in each bun, and add an additional layer of chili on top. Bake the assembled dish in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese achieves a golden-brown hue and the chili begins to bubble and brown.
- Finally, remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and slice the hot dog boats along their connected seams for serving. Enjoy your Chili Cheese Dog Bake!
