Best Crockpot Chili Dog Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This Best Crockpot Chili Dog Casserole combines all your favorite comfort flavors into one easy, hearty dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, it layers hot dogs, chili, tater tots, and cheddar cheese for a crowd-pleasing meal. Slow-cooked to perfection, it’s both simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 package beef franks (about 8-10 hot dogs, sliced into rounds)
- 12 oz sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 4 cups chili (canned or homemade)
- 28 oz tater tots (frozen, I use Ore-Ida)
- sour cream (optional, for serving)
- green onions (optional, sliced for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Slice the beef franks into thin rounds to increase their surface area and distribute flavor evenly. Grease your crockpot with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a bowl, gently mix the sliced hot dogs with the chili, being careful not to break the hot dogs apart. This ensures even distribution throughout the casserole.
- Step 3: Spread half of the frozen tater tots evenly across the bottom of the crockpot. Pour half of the chili-hot dog mixture over the tater tots, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Step 4: Pour the remaining chili-hot dog mixture over the cheese layer, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese, and finish by layering the remaining frozen tater tots on top.
- Step 5: Cover and cook on low for 3.5 hours. The slow cooking melds flavors and softens the tater tots while keeping the top layer slightly crispy.
- Step 6: Once cooked, serve in two ways: transfer portions into oven-safe bowls, top with extra cheddar, and broil for 5-6 minutes until bubbly; or spoon into toasted hot dog buns, top with cheese, and broil. Garnish with sour cream and sliced green onions if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use homemade chili for a more personalized taste, or choose your favorite store-bought variety for convenience.
- Try swapping beef franks for chicken or turkey hot dogs for a lighter option.
- Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- If you prefer crispier tater tots, broil the casserole uncovered for a few extra minutes before serving.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the tater tots may change once thawed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
While fresh potatoes are an option, tater tots provide convenience and a crispy texture that complements the casserole well. If using fresh potatoes, par-cook them before layering to ensure they cook through in the crockpot.
Is it necessary to broil the casserole at the end?
Broiling adds a melted, bubbly cheese topping and crispiness to the tater tots, enhancing texture and flavor. However, you can serve the casserole straight from the crockpot if preferred; it will still be delicious but less crispy.
PrintBest Crockpot Chili Dog Casserole Recipe
This Best Crockpot Chili Dog Casserole is a hearty and comforting slow-cooked dish combining slices of beef franks, chili, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy tater tots. Perfect for an easy family meal, it melds classic chili dog flavors into a layered casserole cooked low and slow in a crockpot for tender, flavorful results.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 package beef franks (about 8–10 hot dogs, sliced into rounds)
- 12 oz sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 4 cups chili (canned or homemade)
- 28 oz tater tots (frozen, I use Ore-Ida)
For Toppings (optional):
- Sour cream (optional but recommended for serving)
- Green onions (optional, sliced for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients and Grease the Crockpot: Slice the beef franks into thin rounds to increase surface area and evenly distribute flavor throughout the casserole. Grease the crockpot with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Having everything prepped makes layering quick and efficient.
- Combine Chili and Hot Dogs: In a bowl, gently mix the sliced hot dogs with the chili to distribute them evenly without breaking the hot dogs apart. This ensures every bite has both chili and hot dog flavor.
- Layer the Casserole Base: Spread half of the frozen tater tots evenly across the bottom of the greased crockpot. Pour half of the chili-hot dog mixture over the tots and sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top, creating a flavorful foundation layer.
- Complete the Crockpot Layers: Add the remaining chili-hot dog mixture over the first cheese layer, sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese, then top with the remaining frozen tater tots. The top layer protects the casserole and creates slight crispiness during cooking.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 3.5 hours. This slow cooking melds flavors and softens the tater tots as they absorb chili and hot dog juices. Cooking can extend up to 4 hours if needed, maintaining gentle heat.
- Finish with Cheese and Broil: After cooking, transfer individual portions into oven-safe bowls, top with extra shredded cheddar, and broil on high for 5-6 minutes until melted and bubbly. Alternatively, spoon into toasted hot dog buns, top with cheese, and broil. Garnish with sour cream and sliced green onions if desired for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use frozen tater tots directly from the freezer; no need to thaw.
- To prevent hot dogs from breaking apart, stir the chili mixture gently.
- Cooking times may vary slightly based on your crockpot model and settings.
- Broiling at the end adds a lovely melted cheese crust for extra indulgence.
- Optional toppings like sour cream and green onions enhance flavor and freshness.
Keywords: chili dog casserole, crockpot casserole, slow cooker chili dogs, tater tot casserole, comfort food, family dinner
