Chili Cheese Dog Bake
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Chili Cheese Dog Bake is the kind of comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Combining classic hot dogs, gooey cheese, and savory chili all wrapped up in a golden crust, it’s the perfect meal to whip up during a busy weeknight or when entertaining friends on game day. I remember the first time I made this dish; the blend of flavors and textures was a hit with my family, and it’s become a staple ever since. With minimal prep time and ingredients you likely already have, this bake is destined to become your new go-to.
Why you’ll love this dish
What makes Chili Cheese Dog Bake special is its ability to please a crowd without breaking the bank. For busy families or those who simply want an easy meal, this dish checks all the boxes—it’s quick to prepare, super filling, and undeniably kid-friendly! This bake is perfect for casual get-togethers, birthday parties, or even a cozy family dinner. When everyone gathers around the table for this delightful dish, you’ll see smiles and hear lots of “Mmm!,” which is what food is all about.
“I made this Chili Cheese Dog Bake for a Friday night gathering, and it disappeared in minutes! Everyone loved how cheesy and comforting it was. Definitely a keeper!” — Sarah M., Home Cook
Preparing Chili Cheese Dog Bake!
This easy recipe brings together just a few ingredients for a flavorful payoff. First, you’ll be preheating your oven and prepping your baking dish. Then you’ll wrap delicious hot dogs in mozzarella cheese and pizza dough, pour over the chili, and pop it in the oven. Yes, it’s that simple! With a bake time of just 20-25 minutes, your chili cheese dog fix will be ready before you know it.
What you’ll need
Gather these items for a delicious Chili Cheese Dog Bake:
- 4 hot dogs
- 4 string cheese (cheddar)
- 1 can Pillsbury pizza dough
- 1 can chili (15 oz.)
- 1/4 cup butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
For a twist, you can also use turkey dogs or vegan cheese to cater to various dietary preferences.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grab a baking dish (around 6 x 10 or 7 x 11 inches works well).
- Remove the cheese from the wrappers, slice each stick in half lengthwise, and set it aside.
- Open the can of pizza dough and roll it out on a clean surface, then cut it into 4 equal rectangles.
- Take one hot dog and place a cheese stick on both sides to create a cheesy bundle.
- Starting from one end of the pizza dough rectangle, wrap the dough around the hot dog, ensuring it’s fully encased.
- Place each wrapped dog seam side down in the baking dish.
- Pour the can of chili over and around the dogs evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the dough is cooked through and golden brown on top.
- While baking, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley in a small bowl. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the chili cheese dogs as soon as they’re out of the oven.
- Enjoy your homemade Chili Cheese Dog Bake!
Best ways to enjoy it
While this dish stands alone as a comfort food champion, there are plenty of ways to spruce it up. Consider serving it alongside some coleslaw or crispy potato wedges for added crunch. You could also dish this up with a fresh garden salad or serve with some zesty pickles on the side. For an extra layer of flavor, add some jalapeños or diced onions on top before serving.
How to store
To keep your leftovers fresh, allow the Chili Cheese Dog Bake to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for that freshly-baked taste. If you need to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions—just wrap them well in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
Helpful cooking tips
For best results, ensure the pizza dough is rolled out evenly to secure that perfect wrap around each hot dog. If you want a golden crust, make sure to brush the top of the dough with the garlic butter mix before baking. Pro tip: If you have leftover chili, drizzle or layer it over the finished bake once it comes out of the oven for an extra kick!
Creative twists
Get creative with your Chili Cheese Dog Bake! Swap the cheese for pepper jack for a spicy version, or incorporate toppings like crispy bacon bits or diced jalapeños for added texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, make mini versions using cocktail franks instead of regular hot dogs for bite-sized treats perfect for parties!
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation takes about 15 minutes, followed by a baking time of 20-25 minutes, so you’ll have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute the hot dogs with vegetarian sausages and use plant-based cheese if desired.What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
The best way to reheat is in the oven. This keeps the crust nice and crispy! Just cover it with foil to prevent over-browning, and heat until warmed through.
Now you’re ready to dive into this easy and satisfying Chili Cheese Dog Bake recipe. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Chili Cheese Dog Bake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and grab a baking dish (around 6 x 10 or 7 x 11 inches works well).
- Remove the cheese from the wrappers, slice each stick in half lengthwise, and set aside.
- Open the can of pizza dough and roll it out on a clean surface, then cut it into 4 equal rectangles.
- Take one hot dog and place a cheese stick on both sides to create a cheesy bundle.
- Starting from one end of the pizza dough rectangle, wrap the dough around the hot dog, ensuring it’s fully encased.
- Place each wrapped dog seam side down in the baking dish.
- Pour the can of chili over and around the dogs evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the dough is cooked through and golden brown on top.
- While baking, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley in a small bowl. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the chili cheese dogs as soon as they’re out of the oven.
