Are you craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this Chili Dog Casserole! It's the perfect blend of classic chili dog flavors transformed into a hearty, baked dish. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun game-day gathering. Get ready to experience a delicious twist on a beloved American classic! This easy recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your collection of healthy meals and delicious dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound hot dogs, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1 (15 ounce) can chili, preferably with beans
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This homemade cooking method ensures even baking and easy cleanup.
Prepare the chili mixture: In a large bowl, combine the chili, cream of mushroom soup, milk, onion, chili powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly mixed. This step is crucial for achieving a uniform flavor throughout the casserole.
Layer the casserole: Spread half of the sliced hot dogs evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the chili mixture over the hot dogs. Top with the remaining hot dogs and sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese. Finally, evenly distribute the crushed tortilla chips over the cheese.
Bake to perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
Serve and enjoy: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This quick dinner idea is best enjoyed hot, so dig in!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the chili mixture for extra heat.
- Add some veggies: Incorporate chopped bell peppers, jalapenos, or corn to the chili mixture for added flavor and nutrients.
- Cheese please: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend.
- Make it your own: Use your favorite brand of chili or even make your own from scratch!
- Breadcrumbs instead of chips: For a crispier topping, use crushed buttery breadcrumbs instead of tortilla chips.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This Chili Dog Casserole is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It’s a delicious dish perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Try this best recipe and let us know what you think! We are confident it will quickly become one of your go-to quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!