Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Bake is a mouthwatering dish that combines the favorite flavors of chili cheese dogs and pasta into one hearty meal. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or movie night with friends. This easy-to-make recipe will satisfy your cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare. It brings together classic comfort food in a fun and unique way. Whether you’re cooking for kids or adults, the blend of pasta, hot dogs, and chili is sure to please every palate. Plus, it requires minimal ingredients and can be made in under an hour—perfect for busy weeknights!
How to Make Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Bake
Ingredients:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups beef hot dogs, sliced
- 1 can (15 oz) chili (with or without beans, your preference)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium-sized baking dish.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions for al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced beef hot dogs and sauté until they’re browned and slightly crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from the heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained macaroni, cooked hot dogs, whole can of chili, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced onion. Mix everything thoroughly so each piece of pasta is coated and the cheese starts to melt.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top for an extra melty crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let the bake rest for a few minutes out of the oven before serving. Enjoy piping hot!
How to Serve Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Bake
Serve this dish hot straight from the oven. It can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a side. Feel free to add toppings like sliced jalapeños, sour cream, or chopped green onions for extra flavor. Pair it with a simple salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Bake
To store leftovers, allow the pasta bake to cool completely. Cover it with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or re-bake it in the oven until warmed through.
Tips to Make Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Bake
- For a spicier kick, consider using spicy chili or adding diced green chilies to the mix.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute beef hot dogs with plant-based hot dogs.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavors, such as pepper jack or mozzarella.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables such as bell peppers or corn for added nutrition and flavor. Additionally, swap elbow macaroni for any pasta shape you like, such as penne or fusilli.
FAQs
Q: Can I use different types of hot dogs?
A: Yes! Feel free to use chicken, turkey, or even pork hot dogs based on your preferences.
Q: Is this dish freezable?
A: Yes! You can freeze the Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Bake before baking. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, bake it from frozen for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Pasta Base
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups beef hot dogs, sliced
- 1 can (15 oz) chili (with or without beans) Your preference
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Plus more for topping
- ½ cup diced onion
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a medium-sized baking dish.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions for al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced beef hot dogs and sauté until they’re browned and slightly crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from the heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained macaroni, cooked hot dogs, whole can of chili, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced onion. Mix everything thoroughly so each piece of pasta is coated and the cheese starts to melt.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top for an extra melty crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let the bake rest for a few minutes out of the oven before serving. Enjoy piping hot!
