Cheesy, meaty, and packed with flavor, the Chili Cheese Dog Bake is a fun twist on a classic American favorite. Wrapped in golden crescent dough and baked to perfection with hearty chili and melted cheese, this dish is perfect for parties, family dinners, game days, or any time you want to treat yourself to a comforting meal. It’s easy to make, totally crave-worthy, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
Think pigs in a blanket—but with a bold, spicy upgrade! If you loved our Crescent Roll Taco Ring or Cheesy Sloppy Joe Sliders, you’ll be obsessed with this one-pan wonder. Ready to fire up the oven? Let’s bake some chili cheese goodness.
What is Chili Cheese Dog Bake?
Chili Cheese Dog Bake is a fun, baked version of the classic chili dog, where hot dogs and cheddar cheese are wrapped in crescent roll dough, surrounded by chili, and topped with melted cheese. It’s everything you love about chili dogs in a warm, bubbly casserole-style bake. As the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this cheesy comfort food hits the spot every time. Try it once and watch it become a go-to favorite!
Why You’ll Love This:
This recipe is a total winner for a few simple reasons:
- All-in-one bake: Easy prep, easy cleanup, and tons of flavor.
- Kid-friendly and fun: Crescent-wrapped hot dogs are always a hit!
- Perfect for any occasion: Potlucks, parties, or casual dinners—this dish fits right in.
It’s like our Chili Mac and Cheese but rolled up in flaky dough and bursting with melty cheddar. What’s not to love?
How to Make Chili Cheese Dog Bake
Quick Overview
In less than 30 minutes, you can have this savory dish ready to serve. It combines simple ingredients with bold flavors and a fun presentation. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want something satisfying for dinner, this recipe delivers.
Ingredients:
- 6 all-beef hot dogs
- 2 cups prepared chili
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 cheddar cheese sticks
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1/4 tsp parsley flakes
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tube crescent dough (8-count)
Step-by-Step:
- Preheat oven to 375°F to 400°F.
- Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into triangles.
- Place one hot dog and one cheddar cheese stick at the wide end of each crescent triangle.
- Roll up each hot dog and cheese stick in the dough triangle, pressing the edges to seal.
- Melt the butter and stir in the garlic powder and parsley flakes.
- Place the wrapped hot dogs in a greased baking dish, spaced apart.
- Pour the chili around the hot dogs in the pan, avoiding the tops.
- Brush the tops of the crescent rolls with the seasoned butter.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the crescent dough is golden brown and fully cooked.
- Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy, chili-filled bite!
What to Serve Chili Cheese Dog Bake With:
This dish is hearty on its own but pairs great with classic sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or a crisp green salad. For something extra, serve with sweet potato fries, onion rings, or baked beans. Round out the meal with cold lemonade or your favorite soda for a fun, diner-style vibe.
Top Tips for Perfecting Chili Cheese Dog Bake
- Use quality hot dogs: All-beef hot dogs offer the best flavor and texture.
- Seal the dough well: This prevents cheese from leaking during baking.
- Use thick chili: A chunkier chili works best to hold shape and avoid sogginess.
- Customize the heat: Add jalapeños or hot sauce if you like it spicy.
- Add toppings: Try a dollop of sour cream, chopped green onions, or diced tomatoes.
Storing and Reheating Tips:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. To freeze, wrap each baked roll individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and bake to reheat.
FAQs
Can I use different cheese? Yes! Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or Colby for variety.
Can I make this vegetarian? Absolutely—use plant-based hot dogs and meatless chili.
Can I use homemade chili? Of course! Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold its shape in the bake.
Can I prep it ahead of time? Yes, assemble and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Is it kid-friendly? Totally! The cheesy, handheld rolls are always a hit with kids.
Conclusion
Chili Cheese Dog Bake is a fun, filling, and flavor-packed dish that takes your favorite chili dogs and turns them into a warm, cheesy casserole. With flaky dough, gooey cheese, and savory chili, every bite is pure comfort food joy. Make it for your next gathering or a cozy family meal—it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 6 all-beef hot dogs
- 2 cups prepared chili (thick style)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 cheddar cheese sticks
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
- 1/4 tsp parsley flakes
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tube crescent dough (8-count)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into 6 triangles.
- Place one hot dog and one cheese stick on the wide end of each triangle and roll up tightly, pinching seams.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder and parsley flakes.
- Place crescent-wrapped hot dogs in a greased baking dish, leaving space between each.
- Pour chili around the hot dogs, avoiding the tops to keep them crispy.
- Brush seasoned butter over each crescent top and sprinkle with shredded cheddar.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until crescents are golden and cooked through.
- Serve warm with your favorite toppings!
Notes
Use thick chili to avoid sogginess. Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or green onions for a kick. Great for parties or quick dinners.