Ah, the classic chili dog—who doesn’t love the messy delight of biting into one during a summer BBQ? But what if I told you that you could transform that finger-licking goodness into a cozy, bubbling casserole perfect for a family dinner? I stumbled upon this idea while rummaging through my pantry one rainy afternoon, craving something comforting yet a tad bit rebellious.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the ingredients.
- Take hot dogs and wrap each one in a tortilla, adding ketchup and mustard inside for extra flavor.
- Arrange the wrapped hot dogs in a baking dish, ensuring they fit snugly side by side.
- Pour your choice of chili evenly over the wrapped hot dogs in the dish.
- Generously sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the chili-covered hot dogs.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the top to crisp slightly.
- Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, top with sour cream and any other desired toppings such as chopped onions.
Ingredients
- 8 hot dogs
- 8 slices of American cheese
- 1 can (15 ounces) of chili with beans
- 8 flour tortillas (10-inch size)
- Cooking spray
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
FAQ
- Can I use vegetarian ingredients in this Chili Dog Casserole?
- Absolutely! You can substitute regular hot dogs with veggie hot dogs to make this dish vegetarian-friendly. Many people have tried it this way and found it just as delicious.
- How can I make the top of the casserole crispy?
- To achieve a crispy top, consider removing the foil during the last few minutes of cooking. This allows the top to brown and adds a delightful texture.
- What are some recommended toppings for the casserole?
- You can experiment with a variety of toppings like chopped red onions, sour cream, and even hot and sweet peppers. These add extra flavor and a personal touch to the dish.
- Is it okay to use homemade chili instead of canned chili?
- Yes, using homemade chili is a great option and can enhance the flavor of the casserole. Some people prefer the taste of homemade chili over canned versions.
- What sides go well with Chili Dog Casserole?
- Consider serving it with Mexican Street Vendor Style Corn Salad or Instant Pot® Refried Beans for a complete and satisfying meal. These sides complement the dish perfectly.
Tips
- For a slightly crispy top, remove the foil for the last few minutes of baking.
- Experiment with different toppings like chopped red onion, sour cream, or sautéed onions for added flavor.
- If using frozen chili, thaw it beforehand to ensure even cooking.
- To prevent the tortillas from becoming too mushy, consider crisping them up a bit before assembling the casserole.
Equipment
- Casserole Dish
- Aluminum Foil
- Timer (if your current one is unreliable or non-existent)
