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Cozy One-Pan Chili Cheese Dog Casserole for Game Day

chili cheese dog casserole - featured image

A hearty, cheesy, and scoopable casserole featuring layers of hot dogs, chili, and crispy tater tots, all baked in a single pan. Perfect for game day or a cozy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 can (15 oz) chili (e.g., Wolf Brand or Hormel)
  • 8 hot dogs (all-beef recommended, like Nathan’s or Hebrew National)
  • 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots (e.g., Ore-Ida)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar preferred)
  • 1/2 cup diced onion (yellow or white)
  • 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, chopped green onions, hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Slice hot dogs into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch thick, cut on a diagonal). Place in an even layer in the baking dish.
  3. Spread chili evenly over the hot dogs.
  4. Sprinkle diced onion and pickled jalapeños over the chili layer.
  5. Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
  6. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, until tots are golden and crispy around edges.
  7. Remove from oven, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return to oven and bake for another 10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Drizzle with yellow mustard and add any extra toppings. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, use frozen tater tots (do not thaw) and a thick chili to avoid sogginess. Add cheese in the last 10 minutes to prevent burning. Let casserole rest 5 minutes before serving to set layers.

Nutrition

Keywords: chili cheese dog casserole, game day casserole, one-pan casserole, tater tot casserole, comfort food, easy dinner