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Chili Cheese Dog Casserole

Chili Cheese Dog Casserole combines rich homemade chili with crispy tater tots, savory ground beef, tangy hot dogs, and melted cheddar cheese. This hearty dish transforms traditional chili dogs into a comforting, easy-to-serve family meal with a satisfying crunch.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Keyword Chili, Hot Dog
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 4 people

Ingredients

  • Scallions
  • 4 Garlic Cloves
  • 1 Sweet Onion
  • 16 oz Sharp Cheddar Cheese
  • 15 oz Red Kidney Beans
  • 6 oz Tomato Paste
  • 32 oz Tater Tots
  • 2 cups Beef Broth
  • 28 oz Crushed Tomatoes
  • 1 pound Ground Beef
  • 8 Hot Dogs
  • tsp Oregano
  • tsp Chili Powder
  • tsp Cumin
  • tsp Paprika
  • tsp Salt
  • tsp Black Pepper
  • tsp Cayenne Pepper
  • Sour Cream

Instructions

Make the Chili

  • In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and crumbly. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  • Add 1 finely chopped sweet onion and 4 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Cook until the onions become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  • Stir in 1 can (6 oz) of tomato paste, ensuring it mixes thoroughly with the beef and onions.
  • Pour in 28 oz of crushed tomatoes and 2 cups of beef broth. Stir to combine.
  • Add 1 can (15 oz) of drained red kidney beans and 8 sliced hot dogs to the pot.
  • Sprinkle in 2 tsp oregano, 2 tsp chili powder, 2 tsp cumin, 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper. Stir well to ensure all spices are evenly distributed.
  • Bring the chili to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Prepare the Casserole

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large baking dish, spread the prepared chili evenly across the bottom.
  • Arrange the 32 oz of tater tots in an even layer on top of the chili.
  • Sprinkle the shredded 16 oz sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots.

Bake the Casserole

  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

  • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of chopped scallions over the top for a fresh, oniony crunch.
  • Scoop portions onto plates and enjoy your hearty Chili Cheese Dog Casserole!