Chili Frankfurter Bake
A hearty baked dish combining frankfurters, macaroni, and chili flavors topped with melted cheddar cheese, perfect for casual family dinners or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut 4 frankfurters in half diagonally.
- Saute onion and green pepper in butter in a large skillet.
- Add peeled tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chili seasoning to the skillet mixture.
- Stir to combine.
- Add cooked macaroni to the mixture.
- Spoon the mixture into a baking dish.
- Top with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Make diagonal slits in the remaining 6 frankfurters and arrange them on top of the macaroni mixture.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes in a 12 x 7 x 2-inch baking dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using spicy or smoked frankfurters. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the frankfurters with plant-based sausages. You can also enhance the dish by mixing in some canned beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition. If you have leftover chili mix, use it in other American recipes for a zesty twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chili Frankfurter Bake with a side of Cool And Creamy Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. A simple green salad or cornbread would also make excellent accompaniments. For a heartier meal, pair it with Quick Refrigerator Rolls. This dish is ideal for casual gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a microwave-safe lid or wrap. Heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Frankfurter Bake contains roughly 337 calories, with 12g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value) and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1750mg per serving (76% 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 this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the entire dish ahead of time. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for elbow macaroni?
If you don't have elbow macaroni, you can use any small pasta shape like penne, fusilli, or shells. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta options can also work well, just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the Chili Frankfurter Bake before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking or reheat directly from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
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).