Chili Cheese Dog Casserole: A Classic Combo in Cheesy, Baked Form
There’s something comforting and nostalgic about a chili cheese dog — but turn it into a casserole and you’ve got an even easier, cheesier, and more crowd-pleasing way to serve this all-American favorite. This Chili Cheese Dog Casseroleis layered with savory sliced hot dogs, rich chili, gooey cheddar cheese, and baked on a bed of crescent roll dough for a flaky, golden crust.
It’s the perfect weeknight dinner, game day bite, or potluck-friendly comfort food with a playful twist.
Why I Love This Recipe
This dish combines everything I love about comfort cooking: minimal prep, maximum flavor, and that “everyone-goes-back-for-seconds” energy. The crescent roll crust bakes up buttery and soft, the chili is warm and spiced, and the melty cheese brings it all together.
Plus, it’s easily customizable — throw in extra onions, spicy chili, or jalapeños to match your flavor cravings.
Ingredients
- 2 packages (8 oz each) hot dogs, sliced
- 1 can (15 oz) chili (with or without beans)
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup diced onion (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Cooking spray, for greasing
Notes & Variations
- Hot Dogs: Use classic beef, turkey, or even veggie dogs.
- Chili: Canned works great, but feel free to use leftover homemade chili.
- Cheese: Try a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for extra meltiness.
- Heat it up: Add chopped jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce for a spicy version.
- Add crunch: Top with crushed tortilla chips before baking for a fun texture twist.
How to Make Chili Cheese Dog Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Dish
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Step 2: Combine the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced hot dogs, chili, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir in diced onion, if using.
Step 3: Lay the Crescent Base
Unroll the crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of the greased baking dish, gently pinching the seams to form a single layer.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the hot dog and chili mixture evenly over the crescent dough. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the crescent dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Tips for Success
- Slice the hot dogs evenly so they cook uniformly and sit nicely in the casserole.
- Drain chili slightly if it’s very soupy — a thick base works best for baking.
- Don’t overbake or the crescent crust may dry out — just golden is perfect.
- Let it rest a few minutes after baking so it slices cleanly.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole pairs well with:
- A crisp side salad or coleslaw
- Pickles or sliced jalapeños
- Cornbread muffins or garlic bread
- Totchos or beer cheese dip for the full game-day experience
- A drizzle of mustard or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor
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- How I Turned a Classic Sandwich Into the Ultimate Cheesy Hot Dip
Final Thoughts
This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is everything you love about a classic chili dog — but easier to serve, easier to share, and way more weeknight-friendly. It’s cheesy, satisfying, and always a hit whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining a crowd.
Give it a try, then come back and tell me how you made it your own. Follow along for more crowd-friendly comfort food recipes that deliver big flavor fast!
— Jason Griffith, ChefManiac.com
