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These Chili Cheese Dogs bring together the rich flavors of homemade chili, savory beef hot dog sausages, and melted cheddar cheese in a soft, pillowy bun. Perfect for game day or a satisfying family dinner, they elevate the humble hot dog into something truly comforting and hearty.
I first made these chili cheese dogs when friends came over for a game day and they instantly became the star of the meal. Now I often find myself craving their combination of gooey cheese and robust chili on a soft bun.
Ingredients
- Hot dog buns: choose fresh, soft buns that will steam nicely in the oven for that tender texture
- Beef hot dog sausages: use high-quality all-beef sausages for the best flavor and juiciness
- Ground beef: lean ground beef to create a hearty and meaty chili base
- Tomato sauce: adds a tangy richness and moisture to the chili
- Yellow onion: finely chopped to build flavor in the chili sauce
- Chili seasoning: provides that classic spicy and smoky heat, fresh blends work best
- Ketchup: adds sweetness and depth to the chili
- Mustard: for slight tang and complexity in the chili
- Worcestershire sauce: enhances umami and rounds out the chili flavor
- Shredded cheddar cheese: sharp cheddar melts beautifully and balances the chili with creamy richness
How To Make Chili Cheese Dogs
- Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef and chopped yellow onion. Cook until the beef is fully browned with no pink left and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease to keep the chili from being oily.
- Simmer the Chili:
- Add tomato sauce, ketchup, mustard, chili seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce to the beef and onions. Stir everything together until well combined. Reduce the heat to low and let the chili mixture simmer gently until heated through. This slow simmer lets the flavors meld beautifully.
- Prepare and Assemble the Dogs:
- Line up the hot dog buns in a 9 by 13-inch casserole dish. Place one hot dog sausage in each bun. Spoon the warm chili generously over each sausage.
- Add Cheese and Bake:
- Sprinkle a good layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the chili-topped dogs. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated 350-degree oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Bake until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove from oven and serve these chili cheese dogs hot. Add fresh toppings like diced onions, jalapeños, or relish if desired, and enjoy the melty, hearty comfort food.
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Cheddar cheese is my favorite part of this recipe because the way it melts over the spicy chili creates the perfect creamy counterbalance. I remember making these for weekend family gatherings where everyone had fun adding their own toppings.
Storage Tips
Keep leftover chili and hot dogs in separate airtight containers for best freshness. Chili stays good in the fridge for up to four days and hot dogs for about two. Reheat the chili gently on the stove, and warm hot dogs separately to keep them moist. You can freeze the chili for up to three months, but the assembled dogs are best enjoyed fresh.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can be used to make a lighter chili base. For a vegetarian version, substitute meat with textured vegetable protein or cooked lentils and use a vegetarian chili seasoning. You can swap cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or mozzarella depending on your melting preference. Hot dog buns can be replaced with hoagie rolls for a sturdier sandwich.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chili cheese dogs with classic sides like crispy fries, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad. They also pair well with tangy pickles or crunchy tortilla chips for added texture. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of baked beans or corn on the cob.
Cultural Context
Chili cheese dogs are a popular American comfort food often associated with casual events like sports games, fairs, and backyard barbecues. Their roots trace back to various regional chili variations combined with the simple hot dog that became a street food staple. This recipe hits that nostalgic spot while offering a customizable twist for modern tastes.
Pro Tips
- Always brown the beef and onions thoroughly to develop deep, savory flavors in the chili
- Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil during baking to keep buns soft and prevent drying out
- Let the chili rest for several hours if time permits, the flavors deepen and meld beautifully
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can chili and sausages be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chili and assemble the buns with sausages and toppings in advance. Keep wrapped and refrigerated, then bake when ready to serve.
- → What toppings work best with these chili dogs?
Onions, jalapeños, and dill relish add fresh and spicy notes that complement the savory beef chili and melted cheese.
- → Is baking necessary for the cheese melt?
Baking ensures the cheese melts evenly and blends with the chili while keeping the buns soft. Grilling is an option if preferred for a smoky flavor.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Store chili and sausages separately in airtight containers. Chili lasts up to 4 days refrigerated; sausages up to 2 days. Reheat gently before assembling again.
- → Can these be frozen for later use?
Yes, homemade chili can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw and reheat before assembling and serving.