Chili Dogs
Juicy frankfurters topped with melted cheese and hearty chili beans create a flavorful, satisfying dish perfect for casual gatherings or quick weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Make 3 (1/2-inch) deep cuts into each frankfurter on a diagonal.
- Cut the cheese slice into 36 strips, about 1 x 1/4-inch each.
- Insert a cheese strip into each cut in the frankfurters.
- In an ungreased baking dish (11 1/2 x 7 1/2 x 1 1/2-inch), mix the chili hot beans, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne red pepper if desired.
- Arrange the frankfurters on the bean mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chili mixture. You can substitute the frankfurters with turkey or veggie dogs to cater to different dietary preferences. Using shredded cheese instead of strips may also work well, just ensure it melts evenly over the hot dogs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chili dogs with a side of crispy French fries or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They are perfect for game day or casual gatherings. Pair them with a refreshing drink like lemonade or iced tea. For a delicious dessert, consider making Fried Squash Fritters or a slice of Raw Apple Cake With Sauce to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chili dogs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave for 1-2 minutes, covering to retain moisture. For best results, avoid freezing as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Dogs contains roughly 963 calories, with 46g protein, 122g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (147% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 659mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the chili dogs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chili and frankfurters in advance and assemble them before baking. Store the components separately in the fridge for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready to serve. This can save time on busy days or for gatherings.
What can I use instead of American cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, cheddar or pepper jack can be great alternatives. Just ensure that the cheese melts well. You can also omit the cheese for a dairy-free version or use a plant-based cheese if you're following vegetarian recipes.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To increase the heat, you can add more cayenne pepper or include some chopped fresh chili peppers in the chili mixture. Additionally, using spicy chili hot beans can elevate the flavor profile. Experimenting with toppings like spicy mustard or hot sauce is also a fun way to customize your chili dogs.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).