Baked Chili Dogs

Hello, dear readers! Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that combines two crowd-pleasers into one scrumptious dish: Baked Chili Dogs. This isn’t just your average hot dog; it’s a comforting, cheesy delight topped with homemade chili and a sprinkle of crunchy Fritos. Perfect for game day, family gatherings, or just a fun twist on dinner, this recipe is sure to win over any crowd!

Introduction

Imagine the cheer of the crowd and the thrill of the game, all from the comfort of your home. That’s the vibe these baked chili dogs bring to your table. Laden with a hearty, flavorful chili, melty cheddar cheese, and that final crunch of Fritos, every bite is a touchdown of flavors. Let’s get the fun started by whipping up some homemade chili before we assemble our hot dogs into the ultimate bake.

Ingredients

For the Chili:

• 16 oz ground beef or turkey
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chili Dogs:

• 8 hot dog buns
• 8 hot dogs
• Prepared chili (from the above recipe)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/3 cup chopped green onions
• 1 cup crushed Fritos corn chips

this Recipe

How to Make

Making the Chili:

1. Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Add Flavors: Stir in the chopped onion, and cook until soft. Add kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 20 minutes until thickened.

Assembling the Chili Dogs:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Buns: Arrange hot dog buns in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place a hot dog in each bun.
3. Add the Chili: Spoon the prepared chili over the hot dogs evenly.
4. Cheese It Up: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top.
5. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Final Touches: Garnish with sour cream, chopped green onions, and a generous helping of crushed Fritos.

Helpful Tips

• Chili Consistency: If your chili is too thin, let it simmer uncovered to thicken up. If it’s too thick, add a bit of water or broth.
• Cheese Varieties: Feel free to mix different types of cheese for a richer flavor profile, such as Monterey Jack or Colby.
• Serving Suggestion: These chili dogs pair wonderfully with a simple green salad or some crispy sweet potato fries.

Substitutions/Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free buns and ensure your hot dogs are gluten-free.
• Vegan/Vegetarian: Opt for plant-based meat substitutes and vegan hot dogs. Use vegan cheese and sour cream.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the chili or a splash of hot sauce for those who like it hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the chili ahead of time? Absolutely! The chili can be made a few days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat before assembling your chili dogs.
2. How do I store leftovers? Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate any leftovers in a tightly sealed container. They should last for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

More Relevant Recipes

If you loved these baked chili dogs, you might also find these dishes irresistible:

• Oven-Fried Chicken
• Crock-Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
• Classic Spaghetti Carbonara

Thank you for joining me on this tasty adventure! I hope these baked chili dogs bring as much joy and excitement to your table as they do to mine. Here’s to delicious moments shared with loved ones! Enjoy every bite!

Print