Chili Cheese Dog Bake is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. This easy and delicious recipe combines classic flavors of chili, cheese, and hot dogs, all wrapped in a golden, buttery pizza crust. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a game day snack, or a casual get-together, this dish is sure to be a hit. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the best Chili Cheese Dog Bake, along with some variations and frequently asked questions.
Chili Cheese Dog Bake is a delightful twist on the traditional chili cheese dog. By baking the hot dogs and cheese in a pizza crust, you get a crispy, flaky exterior with a gooey, cheesy, and savory filling. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it a great option for busy weeknights or when you need to feed a crowd.
Ingredients
For the Chili Cheese Dog Bake:
- 1 can (14 to 15 oz) chili, heated
- 1 can Pillsbury™ refrigerated classic pizza crust
- 4 Cheddar cheese sticks
- 4 all-beef hot dogs
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon parsley flakes
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
- Heat the Chili: Warm the chili in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through. Set aside.
- Roll Out the Pizza Crust: Open the can of pizza crust and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. Cut the crust into 4 equal rectangles.
Step 3: Assemble the Chili Cheese Dog Bake
- Place a Hot Dog and Cheese: Lay one hot dog and one cheese stick along the edge of each rectangle of pizza crust.
- Wrap the Hot Dog and Cheese: Roll the pizza crust around the hot dog and cheese stick, pinching the seams and ends to seal.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the wrapped hot dogs seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Add the Topping
- Melt the Butter: In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter.
- Mix Seasonings: Stir in the garlic powder and parsley flakes into the melted butter.
- Brush the Topping: Brush the butter mixture over the tops of the wrapped hot dogs.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake in the Oven: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the pizza crust is golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve with Chili: Serve the baked hot dogs with the heated chili, either drizzled on top or served on the side for dipping.
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes
- Crust Sealing: Make sure to pinch the seams and ends of the pizza crust tightly to prevent the cheese from oozing out during baking.
- Chili Choice: You can use your favorite canned chili or homemade chili for this recipe. If you prefer a spicier dish, choose a chili with more heat.
- Cheese Sticks: If you don’t have cheese sticks, you can use shredded cheese or cut blocks of cheese into sticks.
Variations
- Bacon-Wrapped Chili Cheese Dog Bake: Wrap each hot dog with a slice of bacon before wrapping it in the pizza crust for an extra layer of flavor.
- Jalapeño Chili Cheese Dog Bake: Add sliced jalapeños inside the crust with the hot dog and cheese for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free pizza crust and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the Chili Cheese Dog Bakes ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Bake them as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover Chili Cheese Dog Bakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Q3: Can I freeze Chili Cheese Dog Bakes?
A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked Chili Cheese Dog Bakes. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
Q4: Can I use different types of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or Swiss.
Q5: What can I serve with Chili Cheese Dog Bakes?
A: These bakes are delicious on their own but can be served with a side of coleslaw, fries, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Chili Cheese Dog Bake is a fun and flavorful dish that combines the best elements of a chili cheese dog in a convenient and crispy package. This recipe is easy to follow and offers plenty of room for customization to suit your taste. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual family dinner or a game day treat, it’s sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious combination of chili, cheese, and hot dogs in every bite.
