Fully Loaded Classic Chili Cheese Dog Casserole – The Ultimate Comfort Bake

If you’re craving a dish that combines all the joys of a chili dog in one hearty, gooey casserole, this Fully Loaded Classic Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is exactly what you need. Imagine a thick, rich chili base packed with tender ground beef and kidney beans, juicy hot dogs poking through like little beacons, and a golden, melty cheddar blanket that oozes flavor with every bite. Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or any cozy occasion. Let’s break it down step by step.

Ingredients

For the Chili Base:

• 1 ½ lb (680 g) ground beef – opt for 80/20 for flavor or leaner if you want less fat
• 1 (15 oz / 425 g) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (8 oz / 225 g) can tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – adds depth and richness
• 2 tablespoons chili powder – adjust depending on how spicy you like it
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – for that subtle smoky aroma
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Assembly:

• 12 beef or turkey hot dogs – classic beef for richness, turkey for lighter option
• 3 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese – freshly shredded melts best

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready by the time your casserole is assembled. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or cooking spray for easy removal.

2. Prepare the Chili Base

1. Cook the ground beef – Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until fully browned, about 7–10 minutes. Drain excess fat to avoid greasy chili.
2. Build the chili flavor – Lower the heat to medium and stir in:
   • Tomato sauce
   • Tomato paste
   • Rinsed kidney beans
   • Chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika
     Season generously with salt and black pepper.
3. Simmer until thickened – Let the chili cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want a thick, hearty consistency so it holds the hot dogs upright and supports the cheese.

3. Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread the chili base evenly in the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth it out so it’s level.
2. Arrange the hot dogs vertically in the chili, spacing them evenly. This is what makes it visually impressive — the hot dogs peeking through the melted cheese.
3. Add the cheese blanket – Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar evenly over the chili and hot dogs. Make sure the cheese fully covers the chili, but allow the tips of the hot dogs to peek out slightly for that classic look.

4. Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 20–25 minutes until:

• The cheese is fully melted and bubbling
• The hot dogs are slightly blistered on top

For a golden-brown finish, you can broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, but watch carefully to avoid burning.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Cool slightly – Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut into portions.
• Optional toppings – Try a sprinkle of chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, jalapeño slices, or a drizzle of mustard for extra flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Cheese choices – Mix cheddar with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a melty, slightly spicy twist.
• Hot dog alternatives – Use bratwurst, chicken sausages, or plant-based hot dogs for variation.
• Extra chili flavor – Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of cumin for depth.
• Meal prep – This casserole keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Why This Casserole Works

This recipe is the perfect combination of comfort food and visual appeal. The chili base is rich, savory, and slightly spicy, the hot dogs provide that nostalgic childhood flavor, and the melted cheddar cheese ties everything together into a gooey, indulgent masterpiece. It’s easy to prepare, feeds a crowd, and is guaranteed to be a hit at any table.