Chili Dog Tater Tot Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food

• Dec 16, 2024 @ 13:44

Craving a hearty, crowd-pleasing dinner? Chili Dog Tater Tot Casserole combines the bold, nostalgic flavors of chili dogs with the crispy goodness of golden tater tots in one cheesy, indulgent dish. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual dinner, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s simple to make and endlessly customizable!

What You’ll Need

• Ingredients:
  • 5 jumbo hot dogs, sliced
  • 2 (14.5 oz) cans of chili
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 20 oz frozen tater tots
  • ½ yellow onion, minced (optional)
• Equipment:
  • Mixing bowl
  • 9x13 casserole dish (or similar)
  • Oven preheated to 425°F

How to Make It

1. Prepare the Filling
   Combine hot dog slices, chili, and 1 cup of shredded cheese in a bowl.
2. Assemble the Casserole
   Spread the mixture into a casserole dish. Top with rows of tater tots.
3. Bake
   Bake at 425°F for 25–30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake for 1–2 more minutes, until melted.
4. Serve
   Garnish with extra cheese, minced onions, or your favorite toppings. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Cheese Lovers Unite: Don’t skimp on the cheese—it’s the glue that holds this delicious dish together!
• Add More Flavor: Customize with jalapeños, sour cream, or a drizzle of hot sauce for a bold kick.
• Crispier Tots: Bake the tater tots beforehand for extra crunch.

Variations to Try

• Vegetarian Option: Swap hot dogs for a hearty vegetarian chili with beans, lentils, or mushrooms.
• Healthier Twist: Use turkey dogs, low-fat cheese, or swap tater tots for sweet potato or cauliflower tots.
• Spice It Up: Add chili powder, cayenne, or hot sauce to the mix for extra heat.

Common Questions

1. Can I make it ahead of time? Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
2. How do I store leftovers? Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze it? Absolutely! Store in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.