Print

Kid-Approved One-Pan Chili Cheese Dog Casserole

chili cheese dog casserole - featured image

A quick and easy 30-minute dinner featuring smoky hot dogs, hearty chili, and melted cheese, all baked in one pan for minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 ounces) chili with beans
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 6 hot dogs, sliced into rounds
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • Optional toppings: sliced green onions, diced jalapeños, sour cream, crushed tortilla chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat the olive oil in a 10-inch oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  3. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  4. Add the ground beef and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking it apart, until browned and no longer pink.
  5. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Add the canned chili, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
  7. Fold in the sliced hot dogs, distributing evenly.
  8. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top without stirring.
  9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to brown.
  10. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  11. Scoop into bowls and serve with optional toppings.

Notes

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to set. For a deeper golden crust, broil for the last 1-2 minutes. Pre-shredded cheese works but freshly grated melts smoother. Toast spices for 30 seconds before adding liquids for more flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: chili cheese dog casserole, one-pan dinner, easy weeknight meal, kid-friendly, comfort food, 30-minute recipe