Baked Chili Cheese Dogs: A Savory Comfort Food Delight

Baked Chili Cheese Dogs are the perfect combination of comfort and flavor. The soft hot dog buns, juicy hot dogs, savory chili, and gooey cheddar cheese make these a crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy family meal or hosting a casual gathering, this recipe is simple to prepare and always a hit. With a variety of customizable toppings, you can easily tweak these chili cheese dogs to suit everyone’s tastes.

For those looking to explore more classic American comfort food recipes, check out this article on comfort food classics or browse Bon Appétit’s take on chili recipes. These sources will provide inspiration for your next meal, whether you’re sticking to traditional flavors or experimenting with new twists!

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Making these Baked Chili Cheese Dogs is quick and easy, and they’re sure to satisfy your cravings. Here’s what you need to get started.

Baked Chili Cheese Dogs Recipe – A Savory Comfort Food Delight

---

• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 8 chili cheese dogs 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

These Baked Chili Cheese Dogs are a fun and indulgent twist on the classic hot dog. They feature hot dogs topped with savory chili, melted cheddar cheese, and your favorite toppings, all baked to perfection in a warm bun. Perfect for a quick dinner or game day treat, these chili cheese dogs are sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 hot dog buns
• 8 hot dogs
• 2 cups hot dog chili (store-bought or homemade)
• 1.5 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)

Topping Options (optional):

• Diced onions
• Jalapenos (sliced)
• Diced tomatoes
• Pickles (sliced)
• Crispy bacon (crumbled)

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Buns:
   Place the hot dog buns in a baking dish. You can line them up closely together to keep them from opening during baking.

3. Assemble the Chili Cheese Dogs:
   Insert one hot dog into each bun. Spoon about 1/4 cup of hot dog chili over each hot dog. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the chili.

4. Bake the Chili Cheese Dogs:
   Place the baking dish with the assembled chili cheese dogs into the oven. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the buns are slightly toasted.

5. Add the Toppings:
   Once the chili cheese dogs are baked, remove them from the oven. Add any optional toppings you like, such as diced onions, sliced jalapenos, diced tomatoes, pickles, or crumbled bacon.

6. Serve:
   Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!

Notes

If you’re using homemade chili, make sure it’s heated through before assembling the chili cheese dogs.

Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences—adding a little heat with jalapenos or a smoky crunch with bacon can elevate the flavor.

These chili cheese dogs are great for a crowd, and you can easily double the recipe if needed.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Main Dish, Comfort Food
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chili cheese dog
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 1,000mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Baked Chili Cheese Dogs

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature ensures that the hot dogs and chili are heated through without overcooking.
2. Assemble the Chili Cheese Dogs: Place the hot dog buns on a baking sheet. Insert one hot dog into each bun, and then spoon a generous amount of hot dog chili over the top of each hot dog.
3. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chili-covered hot dogs. Be sure to cover the entire chili layer with cheese for that melty, gooey effect.
4. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the buns are lightly toasted.
5. Customize with Toppings: After removing the chili cheese dogs from the oven, top them with your choice of diced onions, jalapeños, diced tomatoes, pickles, or crumbled bacon for added texture and flavor.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your baked chili cheese dogs immediately while they’re warm and cheesy. These make a perfect meal paired with a cold drink or a side of crispy fries.

Advanced Techniques for Perfect Baked Chili Cheese Dogs

For those who want to elevate this simple recipe, here are some advanced techniques to perfect your Baked Chili Cheese Dogs:

Make Your Own Chili

While store-bought chili works well, homemade chili can elevate your baked dogs to the next level. Consider making your own chili using ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. Homemade chili will add richness and depth to the overall flavor.

Use Different Cheeses

While cheddar is the classic choice for chili cheese dogs, experimenting with different cheeses can add new layers of flavor. Consider using a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a gooier texture, or try pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.

Add Layers of Flavor

To enhance the chili’s flavor, add sautéed onions, garlic, and a little bit of chili powder while cooking. This adds a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the hot dogs and cheese. You can even stir in a little BBQ sauce or hot sauce for some added heat and sweetness.

Toast the Buns

For an extra crispy and flavorful touch, lightly butter the inside of your buns and toast them in the oven for a few minutes before assembling the chili cheese dogs. This gives the buns a slight crunch and prevents them from becoming too soggy once the chili and cheese are added.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

To ensure that your Baked Chili Cheese Dogs stay fresh, here are some tips on how to store them and extend their shelf life:

Storing Leftovers

After making your Baked Chili Cheese Dogs, allow them to cool to room temperature. Then, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Freezing Baked Chili Cheese Dogs

If you have extra Baked Chili Cheese Dogs that you won’t eat right away, freezing them is a great option. Wrap each chili cheese dog individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or microwave them for 2-3 minutes.

Chili and Cheese Storage

If you’re making chili in advance, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat the chili in a saucepan over medium heat before using it on your hot dogs. Keep extra shredded cheese in a sealed bag or container to ensure it stays fresh for future use.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

This Baked Chili Cheese Dog recipe is versatile and can be adapted to meet different dietary preferences or restrictions:

Gluten-Free Version

To make these chili cheese dogs gluten-free, simply use gluten-free hot dog buns. Many stores carry gluten-free buns, so you can still enjoy this dish without compromising on flavor.

Dairy-Free Option

For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative. There are many plant-based cheese options available that will melt nicely and complement the chili.

Vegetarian or Vegan Version

For a vegetarian or vegan version, use plant-based hot dogs, such as those made from soy or seitan. You can also replace the chili with a vegan chili made with beans, lentils, or tofu. Ensure that you use vegan cheese for the topping.

Low-Carb Adaptation

If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, swap the hot dog buns for low-carb or keto-friendly bread alternatives, or try using lettuce wraps as a substitute for buns.

FAQs About The Recipe

Can I use store-bought chili for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought chili works perfectly for this recipe. However, if you want to elevate the flavor, you can make your own homemade chili for a richer taste.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chili cheese dogs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake them in the oven until heated through and the cheese is melted.

What are some great topping options for chili cheese dogs?

Some great topping options include diced onions, jalapenos, pickles, bacon bits, or even guacamole. Feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings to make the chili cheese dogs uniquely your own.

Can I freeze the chili cheese dogs?

Yes, you can freeze Baked Chili Cheese Dogs for up to 2-3 months. Simply wrap them individually and store them in an airtight container or zip-top bag before freezing.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Baked Chili Cheese Dogs are a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal that combines all your favorite flavors in one dish. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just want a quick and comforting dinner, this recipe is sure to please. By following the easy steps and experimenting with toppings and variations, you can make the perfect chili cheese dogs every time.

So gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to indulge in this delicious, savory treat that everyone will love. Happy cooking!