Chili Cheese Dog Tater Tot

Chili Cheese Dog Tater Tot Casserole is my go to when everyone craves big flavor and comfort with minimal cleanup This casserole brings together everything you love about chili cheese dogs in a single baking dish and it hits the table golden and bubbling with cheese in less than an hour

I tried making this after a cookout with leftover hotdogs and it became an instant favorite with my kids Instead of fighting over toppings everyone dove right in for seconds

Ingredients

• Ground beef: for a hearty and flavorful base Choose 80 20 for a juicy texture
• Yellow onion: for sweetness and aroma Look for firm bulbs with papery skin
• Coarse kosher salt black pepper ground cumin: for foundational savory notes
• Onion powder and smoked paprika: to build depth and smoky flavor
• Chili powder: brings warmth and subtle heat Opt for fresh high quality chili powder
• Minced garlic: brightens and lifts the overall taste Use fresh for best results
• Hot dogs: classic element for true chili cheese dog flavor Look for all beef dogs if you can
• Rotel tomatoes with green chilies: add tang and a kick Choose the original or mild based on your preference
• Chili beans: bring a creamy hearty texture and a touch of spice
• Tomato paste: concentrates the sauce and ties everything together
• Colby Jack cheese: melts beautifully with a creamy sharp finish For top melt buy block cheese and shred it yourself
• Crispy crowns: give a crunchy topping Do not thaw before baking to keep them crispy
• Green onions: for fresh color and pop of mild pungency
• Mustard: for drizzling at the end It cuts through richness and gives that classic finish

Step by Step Instructions

Brown the Beef and Onion:

Cook the ground beef and chopped onion in a large skillet on medium high heat Stir often breaking up the beef Season with salt pepper cumin onion powder paprika chili powder Keep cooking until the beef is browned and onion is soft about 7 to 8 minutes Drain off any extra grease

Build the Chili Cheese Base:

Add the minced garlic and chopped hot dogs to the skillet Stir well so everything gets coated Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant Mix in the drained Rotel chili beans and tomato paste Continue stirring until all items are evenly combined Let this simmer for 4 to 5 minutes so flavors meld

Add Cheese and Tots:

Sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese over the top of the chili dog mixture Arrange crispy crowns in an even layer to cover the entire surface Press gently so they stay put

Bake:

Move the skillet or transfer the mixture to a casserole dish Bake at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 25 minutes The cheese will bubble and the crispy crowns should turn golden brown For more crunch broil for 3 minutes at the end just do not walk away

Finish and Serve:

Scatter chopped green onions over the top Drizzle with mustard right before serving Spoon big portions onto plates and enjoy

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Hands down it is my favorite way to use up leftover hotdogs and cheese Every time I serve it the whole house smells like the ballpark and it turns even a regular night into something fun

Storage Tips

Let any leftovers cool to room temperature before covering tightly with foil or transferring to an airtight container This casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to three days Reheat portions gently in the oven or microwave to keep the crispy crowns from getting soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have Colby Jack try cheddar or Monterey Jack For a meat free version swap the beef and hotdogs for plant based alternatives and use vegetarian chili beans You can use tater tots instead of crispy crowns with equally delicious results

Serving Suggestions

Serve with extra mustard or a side of tangy pickles If you want some crunch offer crushed corn chips on top A simple green salad balances all the cheesy richness

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Cultural Context

This casserole is pure Americana combining everything you would find at a classic backyard BBQ Chili cheese dogs tater tots and cheesy casseroles are beloved in Midwest kitchens and this dish brings them together in one family friendly recipe

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to substitute Colby Jack with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend for extra flavor.

→ Are other beans suitable instead of chili beans?

Pinto or kidney beans work well if chili beans aren't available; just adjust seasonings for taste.

→ How do I make the tater tots extra crispy?

Broil the casserole for a few minutes at the end of baking to add extra crunch to the tater tots.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Prepare the beef and bean mixture in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve for best texture.

→ What sides pair well with this casserole?

Try a fresh green salad or coleslaw to balance the hearty flavors and add a refreshing contrast.

→ Is mustard necessary as a topping?

Mustard adds a zesty finish but is optional; personalize with ketchup or relish if preferred.