Easy Game Day Cheesy Chili Dog (Print Format)

Jalapeños stuffed with chili, cheese, and smoky sausage, all baked in crescent dough for the perfect appetizer bite.

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 8 large fresh jalapeños
02 - 1 cup chili (thick and bean-less, canned or homemade)
03 - 1 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
04 - 4 oz cream cheese, softened
05 - 1/2 teaspoon BBQ seasoning
06 - 16 lil’ smokies sausages
07 - 1 tube refrigerated crescent roll dough
08 - 2 tablespoons melted butter

# Steps:

01 - Slice off half an inch from the stem and bottom of the jalapeños to create stable boats. Halve lengthwise and remove seeds and membranes using a small spoon. Wear gloves to avoid skin irritation.
02 - In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded Colby Jack cheese, chili, and BBQ seasoning. Stir until smooth and well mixed.
03 - Fill each jalapeño half with the chili cheese mixture. Press a lil’ smokie gently into the center of each filled jalapeño.
04 - Cut crescent roll dough into 16 smaller pieces. Wrap each piece around a filled jalapeño, ensuring the filling is covered but the ends of the jalapeño are exposed.
05 - Brush each wrapped jalapeño popper lightly with melted butter for a golden finish.
06 - For smoking: Cook at 225°F for 30 minutes, then increase to 350°F for an additional 20-30 minutes until dough is golden brown. For baking: Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for 20-30 minutes. For air frying: Preheat air fryer to 350-375°F and cook for 10-15 minutes, checking for golden brown dough.

# Tips:

01 - Wear gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.
02 - Choose thicker, bean-less chili for a firmer filling.
03 - Parboiling jalapeños creates a softer texture for guests sensitive to spice.