Description
Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish featuring layers of savory chili, juicy hot dogs, sautéed vegetables, and cheesy cornbread baked to perfection. This easy-to-make casserole combines classic flavors of chili dogs in a convenient one-dish meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Cornbread Batter
- 1 package (8-1/2 ounces) cornbread/muffin mix
Vegetables and Meat
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup chopped green pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1 package (1 pound) hot dogs, halved lengthwise and cut into bite-sized pieces
Chili Mixture
- 1 can (15 ounces) chili with beans
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Prepare the Cornbread Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Make the cornbread batter according to the package directions. Spread half of the batter into a greased 8-inch square baking dish evenly.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped green peppers, onions, and celery. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Cook the Hot Dogs: Stir in the cut-up hot dogs into the skillet. Continue cooking and stirring until the hot dogs are lightly browned, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Season and Heat the Chili: Add the chili with beans, brown sugar, garlic powder, and chili powder to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is heated through. Then stir in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spoon the hot dog and chili mixture evenly over the layer of cornbread batter in the baking dish. Carefully spread the remaining cornbread batter over the top of the mixture.
- Add Final Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 28 to 32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cornbread is fully cooked.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole stand for five minutes after baking to allow it to set. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty chili cheese dog casserole.
Notes
- Be sure not to overmix the cornbread batter to keep the bread fluffy.
- You can use regular chili without beans if preferred for a smoother texture.
- Adjust the chili powder to your preferred spice level for more or less heat.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
