Chili Cheese Dog Casserole: A Saucy, Cheesy Bake Loaded With Hot Dog Slices in Every Bite

When you want all the flavor of chili cheese dogs in a dish that’s family-friendly and oven-baked, this chili cheese dog casserole is the answer. With a buttery crescent roll base, a hearty chili and hot dog filling, extra slices layered on top, and a gooey blanket of melted cheddar, this dish is playful, cheesy, and comforting all at once.

Every bite brings together smoky hot dogs, saucy chili, and golden cheese, baked over a crust that holds it all together. It’s easy, filling, and guaranteed to become a weeknight favorite.

Why This Recipe Is My Favorite

This version of chili cheese dog casserole is one of my go-tos because every layer delivers something special: buttery crust on the bottom, saucy chili loaded with hot dogs in the middle, and gooey cheese blanketing sliced hot dogs on top. 

The presentation is fun, and it’s a perfect all-in-one meal that feels nostalgic yet hearty enough to feed the whole family.

It’s also incredibly simple — just a handful of ingredients and about 50 minutes total.

History and Fun Facts About Chili Cheese Dogs

Chili dogs have been a staple of American comfort food for more than a century, combining two favorites: hot dogs and chili. 

They gained popularity in the 1920s at diners, ballparks, and roadside stands, where chili was ladled over grilled hot dogs to create a messy, indulgent treat.

Casseroles, meanwhile, surged in popularity after World War II, when busy families turned to oven-baked meals that could stretch a few ingredients into something filling. This casserole brings those traditions together — all the flavors of a chili cheese dog, layered into a bubbly one-pan bake.

The Role of Each Ingredient

• Crescent roll dough forms a buttery base that bakes underneath the filling.

• Chili provides saucy, hearty richness and ties everything together.

• Hot dogs are sliced and stirred into the chili while extra slices on top give the casserole a fun, signature look.

• Cheddar cheese melts into a gooey, golden topping that holds it all together.

• Onion (optional) adds sweetness and depth to the chili filling.

• Garlic powder brings warmth and savory flavor.

• Black pepper adds subtle spice.

• Salt enhances all the flavors.

• Cooking spray ensures the crust doesn’t stick to the dish.

Substitution Tips and Advice

Swap cheddar with a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for an extra gooey topping. 

Use smoked sausage or bratwurst instead of hot dogs for a heartier flavor. 

If you’d like to add veggies, mix in bell peppers, jalapeños, or corn with the chili. 

For a crust variation, use pizza dough or puff pastry in place of crescent rolls.

Time and Money-Saving Tips

Pre-slice the hot dogs to save time during prep. Keep crescent rolls and canned chili in your pantry so this meal can come together quickly on busy nights.

 Buy cheese in bulk and shred it yourself for better melt and cost savings. 

Double the recipe and bake in two smaller pans — enjoy one now and freeze the other for later.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through, or microwave individual servings.

Freezing: Assemble up to the baking step and freeze tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Fully baked portions can also be frozen in airtight containers.

Make Ahead: Cook the chili mixture with hot dog slices a day in advance, then assemble with dough and cheese right before baking.

Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking dish for layering and baking

• Large mixing bowl for chili and hot dogs

• Knife and cutting board for slicing hot dogs and onions

• Cheese grater for shredding cheddar

• Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing

• Foil for covering during storage or freezing

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad or coleslaw to cut through the richness. 

Cornbread or potato wedges also go great alongside this casserole. Pickles or jalapeños on the side bring zesty contrast, while root beer or lemonade make it fun for kids. 

Adults might enjoy it with a lager or a chilled hard cider.