Chili Cheese Dogs Recipe: A Crowd-Pleasing Classic
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, chili cheese dogs are the way to go. This all-American favorite combines juicy hot dogs, flavorful chili, and gooey melted cheese in a single, satisfying bite. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a game-day feast, or simply craving something indulgent, this recipe will deliver.
Table of Contents
- Preparation Time
15 minutes - Cooking Time
25 minutes - Serves
8 adults - Difficulty
Easy
Ingredients
For the Chili:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup kidney or black beans (optional)
For the Chili Cheese Dogs:
- 8 hot dogs
- 8 hot dog buns
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Optional toppings: diced onions, jalapeños, sour cream, or mustard
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Chili
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes (including juices). Stir to combine.
- Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens. Add beans if desired.
2. Prepare the Hot Dogs
- Cook the hot dogs using your preferred method:
- Grill: Heat for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally for even char marks.
- Boil: Place in boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Pan-Fry: Sear in a hot skillet for 4–6 minutes, turning frequently.
3. Assemble the Chili Cheese Dogs
- Place hot dogs in buns.
- Spoon a generous amount of chili over each hot dog.
- Top with shredded cheese.
4. Melt the Cheese
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the assembled chili cheese dogs on a baking tray.
- Bake for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the buns are slightly toasted.
5. Add Optional Toppings
- Sprinkle on diced onions, sliced jalapeños, or a drizzle of mustard.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Chili Cheese Dogs
- Toasting the Buns: Lightly butter the insides of the buns and toast them for added texture.
- Make-Ahead Chili: Prepare the chili a day in advance for even better flavor.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with pepper jack, smoked gouda, or a cheese blend for a unique twist.
Pairing Suggestions
Chili cheese dogs are rich and hearty, so consider pairing them with:
- Crispy onion rings or French fries
- A fresh garden salad
- Ice-cold soda or beer
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings):
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.
Conclusion
Chili cheese dogs are a guaranteed hit for any occasion. With a simple recipe and endless ways to customize, this dish will quickly become a family favorite. Don’t wait—grab the ingredients today and treat yourself to this mouthwatering classic!
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought chili?
Absolutely! While homemade chili elevates the flavor, canned chili works in a pinch.
2. How do I make them spicy?
Add diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or spicy chili powder to the recipe.
3. Are there vegetarian options?
Yes! Use plant-based hot dogs and swap ground beef with meatless crumbles or extra beans in the chili.
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Chili Cheese Dogs
Ingredients
For the Chili:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 can 15 oz tomato sauce
- 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup kidney or black beans optional
For the Chili Cheese Dogs:
- 8 hot dogs
- 8 hot dog buns
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
Make the Chili
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes (including juices). Stir to combine.
- Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens. Add beans if desired.
Prepare the Hot Dogs
- Cook the hot dogs using your preferred method:
- Grill: Heat for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally for even char marks.
- Boil: Place in boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Pan-Fry: Sear in a hot skillet for 4–6 minutes, turning frequently.
Assemble the Chili Cheese Dogs
- Place hot dogs in buns.
- Spoon a generous amount of chili over each hot dog.
- Top with shredded cheese.
Melt the Cheese
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the assembled chili cheese dogs on a baking tray.
- Bake for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the buns are slightly toasted.
Add Optional Toppings
- Sprinkle on diced onions, sliced jalapeños, or a drizzle of mustard.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
