Introduction

When I first made this Chili Cheese Dog Casserole for my family, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But once we all sat down to eat, I knew I had stumbled upon a real winner. The dish was so easy to make and packed with flavor. The kids loved the cheesy, comforting combination of hot dogs, chili, and crescent rolls, while the adults appreciated how simple yet satisfying it was. It quickly became a go-to weeknight meal and a favorite for casual gatherings. If you’re looking for something hearty, cheesy, and delicious that the whole family will love, this Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is the way to go.

Why You’ll Love This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole

This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is everything you love about chili cheese dogs, but in casserole form. It’s incredibly easy to make, with minimal prep time and just a few ingredients. The layers of savory hot dogs, hearty chili, soft crescent roll dough, and melted cheddar cheese create a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a family dinner. Plus, you can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite toppings or making it spicy if you’re a fan of heat.

Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or just want a quick dinner that everyone will enjoy, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

2 packages (8 oz each) hot dogs, sliced
1 can (15 oz) chili (with or without beans, depending on your preference)
1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced onion (optional, for added flavor)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
Cooking spray (for greasing the baking dish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to ensure that the casserole doesn’t stick.
Prepare the Hot Dogs:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced hot dogs, chili, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. If you’re using onion, add it to the mixture at this point for extra flavor. Stir everything together until well combined.
Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough:
Unroll the crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, ensuring it covers the entire base. You can pinch the seams of the dough together to form a solid base.
Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the hot dog and chili mixture evenly over the crescent roll dough layer. Spread it out evenly to cover the entire base.
Add Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the casserole. Make sure to cover the entire dish with cheese for that perfect gooey, cheesy topping.
Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crescent roll dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
Cool and Serve:
Once the casserole is done, allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty, cheesy dish with your loved ones!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Serving Size: 1/8 of the casserole
Calories: 350 kcal
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 45mg
Sodium: 900mg
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 15g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes

How to Serve

This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with various side dishes to make it a more complete meal:

Serve with a side salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole.
Pair with coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that balances out the cheesy casserole.
Enjoy with chips: Serve with a side of potato chips or tortilla chips for added texture.
Serve with pickles or jalapeños: Add some tangy pickles or spicy jalapeños on the side for extra flavor and crunch.

Additional Tips

Add Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite chili toppings like diced onions, jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add a teaspoon of chili powder or some diced green chilies to the chili mixture.
Swap the Cheese: If you’re not a fan of cheddar cheese, you can swap it for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
Use Veggie Dogs: For a vegetarian version, swap out the hot dogs for veggie dogs or other plant-based alternatives.
Leftovers: This casserole makes great leftovers! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

FAQ Section

Can I use turkey hot dogs instead of regular hot dogs?
Yes! You can use turkey or chicken hot dogs for a healthier alternative.
Can I use a different type of dough?
While crescent roll dough works best for this recipe, you can also try biscuit dough or pizza dough if you prefer.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just assemble it, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the chili mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
How do I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make the casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free crescent roll dough or another gluten-free dough option.
Can I use homemade chili for this recipe?
Yes, you can use homemade chili if you prefer. Just make sure it’s thick enough so it doesn’t make the dough soggy.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the crescent roll dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted. You can also check the internal temperature with a kitchen thermometer—it should reach 165°F (74°C).
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it. Bake it the next day as directed.
What can I serve with this casserole?
Serve it with a side of chips, a salad, or some pickles for a complete meal.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar cheese with any cheese of your choice, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a spicier flavor.

This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is a fun and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of classic chili cheese dogs with the convenience of a casserole. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, parties, or casual gatherings, and it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time. Give it a try, and enjoy a warm, cheesy meal that everyone will love!