Recipe for Chili Cheese Dog Bake
Ingredients:
1 can (14 to 15 oz) chili, heated
1 can refrigerated classic pizza crust
4 Cheddar cheese sticks
4 all-beef hot dogs
1 tablespoon butter
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon parsley flakes
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare a 9-inch square or 11×7-inch glass baking dish with cooking spray.
Spread the heated chili evenly in the baking dish.
Unroll the pizza dough and cut it into 4 strips.
Slice each cheese stick in half lengthwise and place one half on each side of a hot dog.
Wrap a dough strip around each cheese-stuffed hot dog, ensuring a slight overlap in the center.
Place the wrapped hot dogs on top of the hot chili in the baking dish.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the dough is light golden brown.
While baking, melt the butter and mix it with garlic powder and parsley.
Brush the butter mixture on top of each cheese dog once baked.
Serve immediately.
Variations and Substitutions
1. Different Cheeses:
Cheddar Cheese: The recipe uses Cheddar cheese sticks, but you can experiment with other types. Pepper Jack, Colby Jack, or even a sharp white Cheddar can add a different flavor profile.
Vegan Cheese: For a dairy-free version, substitute with your favorite vegan cheese sticks.
2. Hot Dog Alternatives:
Turkey or Chicken Dogs: If you prefer poultry, turkey or chicken hot dogs are a leaner option.
Vegetarian or Vegan Dogs: There are many plant-based hot dog options available that can be used to make this dish vegetarian or vegan-friendly.
3. Chili Variations:
Homemade Chili: Using homemade chili can elevate this dish. Whether it’s a beef, turkey, or bean-based chili, making it from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and flavors.
Different Beans: If using canned chili, consider varieties with different types of beans or added vegetables for extra texture and nutrition.
4. Dough Alternatives:
Crescent Roll Dough: Crescent roll dough can be used instead of pizza dough for a flakier, buttery crust.
Gluten-Free Dough: For those with gluten intolerance, gluten-free pizza or bread dough works well as a substitute.
5. Additional Toppings:
Onions and Peppers: Sautéed onions and bell peppers can be added on top of the chili before baking for added flavor and crunch.
Jalapeños: For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños either inside the dough with the hot dog or as a topping.
Bacon: Crumbled bacon on top before the final baking step adds a smoky, savory element.
6. Serving Suggestions:
With Coleslaw: A side of coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the dish.
Potato Salad: Classic potato salad pairs well with the chili cheese dogs and makes for a hearty meal.
Fresh Salad: A simple green salad can provide a light, fresh contrast to the cheesy, meaty bake.
7. Dietary Adjustments:
Lower Carb Version: For a lower-carb version, consider using low-carb tortillas instead of pizza dough to wrap the hot dogs.
Lower Fat Version: Use reduced-fat cheese sticks and turkey dogs to cut down on fat content.
Conclusion
The chili cheese dog bake is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that can be easily customized to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Its straightforward preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. By experimenting with different cheeses, hot dog types, dough options, and additional toppings, you can create your unique version of this classic comfort food. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or put your spin on it, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the process of making and savoring this delightful bake!
