Chili Cheese Dog Bake

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

• Servings: 6-8

• Cooking Intensity: Easy

• Cost Level: Budget-Friendly

A Note From Our Kitchen

This Chili Cheese Dog Bake is the glorious love child of classic ballpark fare and comforting casserole. Imagine juicy hot dogs smothered in hearty, savory chili, all nestled under a blanket of melted cheese and buttery cornbread topping. It’s a crowd-pleasing, no-fuss dish that’s perfect for game day, potlucks, or a fun weeknight dinner that will have the whole family cheering.

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Ingredients

For the Chili Layer:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef (90/10)

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 cup beef broth

• 2 tablespoons chili powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon salt, plus more to taste

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 8 all-beef hot dogs

For the Cornbread Topping:

• 1 (8.5 oz) box Jiffy corn muffin mix (or your favorite brand)

• 1 large egg

• ⅓ cup milk

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

• Optional for serving: sour cream, pickled jalapeños, diced raw onion

Equipment Needed

• 9×13 inch baking dish

• Large skillet

• Mixing bowls

• Wooden spoon or spatula

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chili Base (10 minutes)

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened.

3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

4. Increase heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Build the Chili (5 minutes)

1. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen its flavor.

2. Add the kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

3. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Bake (5 minutes)

1. While the chili simmers, slice each hot dog into 6-8 bite-sized pieces.

2. Pour the prepared chili into the bottom of your 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly.

3. Scatter the sliced hot dogs evenly over the chili layer.

Step 4: Add the Cornbread Topping (5 minutes)

1. In a medium bowl, prepare the corn muffin mix according to package directions (typically by stirring together the mix, egg, and milk until just combined—do not overmix).

2. Fold in ½ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese into the cornbread batter.

3. Carefully pour and spread the cornbread batter over the hot dog and chili layer. It’s okay if some chili peaks through.

4. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the cornbread batter.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection (25-30 minutes)

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The bake is done when the cornbread topping is golden brown, the cheese is bubbly, and a toothpick inserted into the center of the cornbread comes out clean.

2. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly for easier serving.

Step 6: Serve & Garnish

1. Garnish with sliced green onions.

2. Scoop out hearty portions and serve with optional toppings like a dollop of sour cream, pickled jalapeños, or extra diced onion on the side.

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Chef’s Tips & Variations

• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the chili layer up to 2 days in advance. Store it covered in the fridge, then assemble and bake when ready.

• Spice It Up: Use spicy hot dogs or add a diced jalapeño to the chili for an extra kick.

• Customize Your Chili: Feel free to use your favorite homemade chili recipe or a high-quality canned chili for an even quicker version (about 24 oz).

• Cheese Choices: Pepper jack or a Mexican blend cheese work wonderfully here too.

• Vegetarian Twist: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetarian hot dogs.

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Nutrition Information

Please note: The following nutritional information is an estimate per serving (based on 8 servings) using the specific ingredients listed. Values may vary based on ingredient brands and substitutions.