Hot Dog Manicotti
A fun and savory dish featuring stuffed hot dogs inside manicotti shells, baked with chili and cheese for a hearty, family-friendly meal with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil manicotti shells until done, then drain and set aside.
- Slice each hot dog lengthwise, being careful not to cut completely through.
- Half each slice of cheese and fold lengthwise.
- Stuff each hot dog with 1/2 folded cheese slice.
- Stuff each manicotti shell with a hot dog.
- Cover the bottom of a baking pan with chili.
- Line the stuffed manicotti over the chili in the pan.
- Cover the stuffed manicotti with remaining chili.
- Cover the pan and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes.
- Remove the cover and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Optionally, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top during the final 15 minutes of baking.
- Serve hot and enjoy this wiener-inspired casserole!
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using turkey or vegetarian hot dogs to cater to different dietary preferences. You can also add spices or chopped vegetables to the chili to enhance the flavor. If you're short on time, ready-made chili can be a convenient substitute. Additionally, ensure not to overcook the manicotti shells during boiling to avoid breakage.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Hot Dog Manicotti with a side salad for a refreshing contrast, or pair it with garlic bread for a hearty meal. Consider topping each serving with a dollop of sour cream or diced onions for added flavor. This dish is perfect for game day gatherings or family dinners, and it pairs beautifully with American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the manicotti in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Dog Manicotti contains roughly 2412 calories, with 56g protein, 399g carbohydrates, and 87g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (388% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), and iron (143% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 520mg per serving (23% 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 prepare the manicotti ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the manicotti and assemble it in the baking pan a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add extra baking time if needed as it will be cold from the fridge.
What type of chili should I use?
You can use any chili you prefer, whether it's beef, turkey, or vegetarian. For a spicier kick, consider using chili with jalapeños or a chipotle-infused version. The type of chili will greatly influence the flavor profile of the dish.
Can I use different cheeses for stuffing?
Absolutely! While the recipe suggests cheese slices, feel free to experiment with other types like pepper jack for added heat or provolone for a milder taste. Mixing cheeses can also create a more complex flavor profile.
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).