Chili Dog Mac Cheese Box

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

Enjoy a baked pasta favorite that blends creamy shells and cheese with classic chili dog flavors. Tender hot dog slices pair up with rich canned chili, a touch of cheddar cheese, and tangy garnishes like jalapeños and onions, making each bite loaded with flavor. Using a box of Velveeta shells and cheese ensures creamy, effortless results, while baking brings everything together into a bubbly, golden casserole. This family-friendly dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, delivering comfort and satisfaction without much fuss.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Sat, 07 Jun 2025 22:19:21 GMT
A bowl of chili dog mac and cheese. Save
A bowl of chili dog mac and cheese. | lilicooks.com

This Chili Dog Mac and Cheese is my go-to for busy weeknights when I want to bring together the comfort of classic mac and cheese with the bold flavors of a chili cheese dog. It is rich cheesy and filling with a little kick if you add jalapenos. Packed with pantry staples and loved by all ages this casserole comes together in just thirty minutes and never fails to disappear fast at the table.

I first made this casserole on a Friday when soccer practice ran late and everyone came home starving. The kids still ask for it every month and my husband always grabs seconds.

Ingredients

  • Boxed Velveeta shells and cheese: brings the creamy base with consistent results look for the variety with real cheese sauce for best flavor
  • Hot dogs: sliced into coins add classic chili dog vibes choose your favorite brand and style for great taste
  • Canned no bean chili: layers in rich spiced flavor without extra work opt for a thick well seasoned chili
  • Chili starter: boosts the depth and heartiness Bush’s brand is a favorite but any quality starter works
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: creates a bubbly melty topping try freshly shredded sharp cheddar for the best texture
  • Diced white onion: freshens and brightens every bite choose a firm onion and dice just before serving
  • Pickled jalapenos: deliver tangy heat select your preferred spice level and slice thinly

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Boil the Velveeta shells according to the package directions until al dente drain fully and stir in the cheese sauce packet to coat evenly this forms the creamy base of the dish
Add the Fillings:
Add sliced hot dogs canned chili chili starter and three quarters of the shredded cheddar to the pasta mixture stir thoroughly until well combined every bite should have a bit of everything
Transfer to Baking Dish:
Lightly spray a two quart baking dish with nonstick spray spoon the mac and cheese mixture in and spread it out into a smooth even layer this helps the casserole bake evenly
Cheese the Top:
Evenly sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar across the surface making sure to cover the edges and corners for a golden bubbly top
Bake Until Bubbly:
Place the dish into a preheated three hundred fifty degree oven and bake for about fifteen to twenty minutes until the cheese on top is fully melted and bubbling at the edges
Garnish and Serve:
Take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool a few minutes add diced onion and pickled jalapenos for an extra punch of flavor and serve warm
A bowl of chili dog mac and cheese. Save
A bowl of chili dog mac and cheese. | lilicooks.com

There is something nostalgic about the way the chili and hot dogs blend into the oozy cheese I always find myself sneaking bites right after it comes out of the oven childhood memories and late night movie nights make this dish special in my family

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat warm individual portions in the microwave or bake a covered dish at three hundred fifty degrees until hot. For longer storage freeze in portions and thaw overnight before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap out regular hot dogs for turkey or plant based hot dogs to suit different diets. Use any creamy boxed mac and cheese if Velveeta shells are unavailable but cheese sauce makes a big difference. Try a canned vegetarian chili for a meatless meal or add canned beans for more fiber.

A bowl of chili dog mac and cheese. Save
A bowl of chili dog mac and cheese. | lilicooks.com

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this with a crisp green salad to balance the richness. Top each portion with extra onions jalapenos or even a drizzle of hot sauce. It makes a perfect potluck dish or a fun main course for game days and casual family gatherings.

Cultural Context

Chili dog mac and cheese blends two American classics in one dish. It is the perfect example of comforting crowd food that grew popular with the rise of easy casseroles. The flavors are familiar to anyone who loves diner food summertime cookouts or hearty tailgating fare.

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of hot dogs work best?

Use your favorite hot dogs, whether beef, turkey, or a plant-based style, and cook them before slicing for best texture.

→ Can I use a different mac and cheese brand?

Yes, any box with a creamy cheese sauce—not powdered—will give a rich base that blends smoothly with the other ingredients.

→ Is the chili supposed to have beans?

This version calls for no bean chili, but you can use your preferred variety if you like beans in your dish.

→ How can I add more spice?

Toss in extra jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the mixture before baking for an extra kick.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best texture and flavor.

→ What garnishes work well?

Diced white onions, pickled jalapeños, fresh herbs, or even a dollop of sour cream add great finishing touches.

Chili Dog Mac Cheese Box

Cheesy shells blend with chili and hot dogs for a quick, crowd-pleasing comfort meal that's ready in just 30 minutes.

Preparation Time
10 min
Cooking Time
20 min
Overall Time
30 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 6 Serves

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

→ Main

01 1 12 oz box Velveeta shells & cheese
02 7-8 hotdogs, cooked and sliced into coins
03 1 15 oz can no bean chili
04 1 15.5 oz can chili starter, drained and lightly rinsed
05 1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

→ Garnish

06 Diced white onion
07 Pickled jalapenos

Steps

Step 01

Cook and prepare the pasta according to package directions.

Step 02

Once drained and the cheese sauce has been stirred in, add the hot dogs, chili, starter, and 3/4 cup of the cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until evenly combined.

Step 03

Lightly spray a 2-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray, then transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the dish. Spread out in an even layer.

Step 04

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly on top.

Step 05

Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, just until hot and bubbly and the cheese on top has melted.

Step 06

Serve warm, garnished with diced white onion and pickled jalapenos if desired.

Tips

  1. Not all chili starters are the same, and this recipe was made using the brand Bush's. It can be found near the canned beans in the grocery store.
  2. Make sure to use a boxed mac and cheese variety that includes cheese sauce, not powdered cheese.
  3. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover grilled or boiled hot dogs.

Required Tools

  • 2-quart baking dish
  • Nonstick cooking spray

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains dairy
  • Contains gluten

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 623
  • Fats: 27 g
  • Carbohydrates: 70 g
  • Proteins: 28 g