Chili Cheese Dog Bake

There are nights when everyone is hungry and you need something comforting fast That is when this chili cheese dog bake always delivers with gooey cheddar wrapped in golden crescent rolls all nestled in rich chili This is pure cozy food and it is so easy it became my go to for movie nights and when my nephews come over

I whipped this together the first time for a football game and everyone ended up skipping the chips and piling into the chili cheese dog bake instead It is officially our family’s party favorite

Ingredients

• Hot dogs: the classic base Use a quality brand with a snappy casing for best results
• Crescent roll dough: this wraps the dogs in a golden buttery blanket Look for dough that bakes up fluffy and tender
• Shredded cheddar cheese: adds melty richness Sharp cheddar brings out the savory flavors even more
• Canned chili: choose a brand you enjoy or one with a little spice for kick Quality chili with beans gives more texture
• Melted butter: for richness and to encourage that glossy browned crust Go for real butter for the best taste
• Minced parsley: adds a pop of color and a mild herby flavor You want fresh parsley for maximum aroma
• Garlic salt: seasons the topping with a gentle hint of garlic flavor Select a blend with both garlic and salt for proper balance

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the Crescent Rolls:

Unroll your dough on a clean counter and gently separate into triangles Lay each triangle flat so you have plenty of room for filling

Fill and Roll the Hot Dogs:

Sprinkle each dough triangle with a pinch of cheddar cheese Place a hot dog at the base and roll it tightly to the tip pressing gently so the cheese stays inside

Bake the Crescent Dogs:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the rolled hot dogs spaced evenly apart Bake in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about fifteen minutes until the dough is puffed and just golden

Assemble the Chili Base:

While the crescent dogs bake pour your chili into a 9 by 13 inch baking dish and spread evenly so every bite gets saucy

Combine and Bake Again:

Nestle the baked crescent dogs into the hot chili then place the whole dish back in the oven for ten more minutes This helps everything come together and warms the chili

Buttery Topping:

In a small bowl stir together melted butter parsley and garlic salt Brush this mixture all over the tops of your crescent rolls right after baking for extra flavor and shine

Serve:

Scoop out each hot dog with plenty of chili and cheese Serve right away with a big spoon I love the messiness of this dish

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There is something about the smell of these baking with garlicky butter and chili that takes me back to sleepovers at my aunt’s house She always let us put extra cheese inside Mine never last until leftovers

Storage Tips

Let any leftovers cool completely before covering and refrigerating for up to three days Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until hot so the rolls stay crisp The bake also freezes well Individual portions can be wrapped in foil and reheated straight from the freezer

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of crescent dough swap in puff pastry or pizza dough for a slightly different texture You can use turkey or veggie hot dogs for a lighter or vegetarian bake If shredded cheddar is not handy Monterey Jack or Colby Jack melt nicely and add a creamier flavor

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delicious straight from the pan or served in bowls with extra chili spooned over the top I sometimes offer toppings like diced onions jalapeños or a drizzle of yellow mustard For a full meal pair with a simple salad or crunchy coleslaw

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different cheese types for this dish?

Absolutely! While cheddar melts well and has bold flavor, you can try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend to suit your preferences.

→ Is it possible to make this bake ahead of time?

You can assemble and bake the crescent-wrapped hot dogs ahead, then reheat them in the chili right before serving for best texture.

→ Which type of chili works best?

Use your favorite canned chili—bean or no-bean versions both work. Homemade chili also adds a personal touch if you prefer.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Consider serving with a fresh green salad, coleslaw, or corn on the cob to balance the rich, cheesy main.

→ Can I use turkey or plant-based hot dogs?

Yes, turkey or plant-based hot dogs are great alternatives that still provide a satisfying texture and flavor.