Description
Oven Baked Chili Cheese Dogs are a delicious and comforting American classic featuring juicy beef hot dogs nestled in soft buns, smothered with savory chili and melted cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for game days, family dinners, or casual gatherings, offering a flavorful twist on traditional hot dogs baked to bubbly perfection in the oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Hot Dogs and Buns
- 8 beef hot dogs
- 8 hot dog buns
Toppings
- 2 cups prepared chili without beans
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Seasoned Butter Mixture
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Garnish (Optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature to bake the chili cheese dogs evenly.
- Prepare the Buns and Hot Dogs: Place the 8 hot dog buns in a 9×13 inch baking dish, arranging them snugly. Insert one beef hot dog into each bun, making sure they fit comfortably without overcrowding.
- Add the Chili: Spoon 2 cups of prepared chili without beans evenly over each hot dog, covering them generously to infuse rich, savory flavors.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chili-covered hot dogs for a gooey, cheesy topping.
- Brush with Seasoned Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, and onion powder. Lightly brush this mixture over the tops of the buns to add flavor and help create a golden crust while baking.
- Bake Covered: Loosely cover the baking dish with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top if desired for a fresh touch. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Use your favorite homemade or canned chili for convenience and flavor variation.
- For extra flavor, add diced onions or sliced jalapenos on top before baking.
- You can substitute mozzarella or a cheese blend if preferred to change the cheese flavor profile.
- Ensure buns are snugly placed to hold the hot dogs and toppings without sliding around.
