Add the Chili and Hot Dogs:
Pour the canned chili over the crescent roll dough layer. Then, spread the cooked hot dog slices evenly on top of the chili.
Add Cheese and Seasonings:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the hot dogs and chili. Add a pinch of garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, you can also drizzle some mustard and ketchup over the top before baking.
Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent roll dough is golden brown, and the cheese has melted and bubbled.
Garnish and Serve:
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool. Garnish with diced onions, jalapeños, or pickled onions for an extra kick. Serve hot, and enjoy!
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions:
This chili cheese dog casserole is a meal in itself, but it can be served alongside a side of coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or crispy fries for a complete meal. A simple green salad with a tangy dressing would also complement the richness of the casserole.
Storing Leftovers:
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The casserole can be reheated in the microwave or in the oven. To maintain the crispy crust, reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes works best.
Freezing:
If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Assemble the casserole as directed but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the freezer and bake it at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and bubbly.
Variants:
Vegetarian Chili Cheese Dog Casserole:
For a vegetarian twist, swap the regular hot dogs for plant-based hot dogs, and use a vegetarian chili. The flavors will still be rich and satisfying without the meat.
Spicy Chili Cheese Dog Casserole:
If you love a little heat, add diced jalapeños or chili peppers into the chili or sprinkle them on top of the casserole before baking. You can also use spicy cheese blends or add hot sauce to the chili for an extra kick.
Tex-Mex Chili Cheese Dog Casserole:
For a southwestern spin, add black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers to the chili mixture. Top the casserole with a mix of cheddar and pepper jack cheese for a zesty flavor profile. Serve with a side of guacamole or sour cream.
Low-Carb Chili Cheese Dog Casserole:
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, you can substitute the crescent roll dough with a low-carb dough or almond flour crust. Use sugar-free chili to keep it low-carb while still enjoying the classic flavors.
FAQ:
Can I use regular hot dogs or do I need a specific type?
You can use any type of hot dog you like! Whether you prefer beef, chicken, turkey, or vegetarian hot dogs, they will all work perfectly for this casserole.
Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven for the usual time.
What kind of chili should I use?
You can use any type of chili—beef chili, vegetarian chili, or chili with beans. If you prefer a homemade chili recipe, go ahead and use that too. Just make sure it’s thick enough to layer on top of the dough without making the casserole too watery.
Can I substitute crescent roll dough with something else?
Yes, if you don’t have crescent roll dough, you can use refrigerated biscuit dough, pizza dough, or make a simple cornbread topping to create a different texture.
How can I make the casserole less greasy?
If you find that the casserole is too greasy, you can use leaner hot dogs or drain the chili before using it. Additionally, using less cheese or opting for a lower-fat cheese can help reduce the greasiness.
Conclusion:
This Chili Cheese Dog Casserole is an irresistible comfort food that’s easy to make, filling, and packed with flavor. With its savory layers of chili, hot dogs, melted cheese, and a buttery dough crust, it’s a dish the whole family will love. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual gathering, or a game day snack, this casserole is sure to please everyone. With endless variations to suit your taste, it’s a versatile dish you’ll want to make again and again.
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