Ingredients
Ground beef: Look for beef with moderate marbling for a richer chili flavor and tenderness
Kidney beans: Canned beans save prep time and keep this hearty if you want a firmer bite rinse well and drain
Tomato sauce: Use plain unsalted tomato sauce for a fresh flavor base and watch the sodium
Tomato paste: This thickens the chili and boosts the richness go for double concentrated if you can find it
Chili powder: Choose a blend labeled mild or hot depending on your preference
Garlic powder and onion powder: These build warmth and round out the beefiness
Smoked paprika: For a subtle smoky depth opt for Spanish smoked paprika if possible
Salt and black pepper: Add to taste shop for freshly ground black pepper for best flavor
Beef or turkey hot dogs: Pick high-quality snappy hot dogs with real beef or try turkey for a slightly lighter take
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Grate your own from a block for best melting and a sharper bite
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F 190 degrees C and grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish to prevent sticking
Brown the Beef:
Add ground beef to a large skillet set over medium high heat Cook fully until you see no pink about seven minutes breaking it up as it browns Drain off and discard excess fat for a less greasy result
Build the Chili Base:
Stir in the tomato sauce tomato paste kidney beans chili powder garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika salt and black pepper Lower the heat to medium Simmer for ten to fifteen minutes stirring often until the mixture is thickened and flavors are combined
Assemble in Baking Dish:
Spread the hot beef chili evenly in your prepared baking dish Use a spatula to smooth the surface to the edges
Arrange Hot Dogs:
Nestle the hot dogs upright vertically in the chili mixture leaving small gaps between each one for even cooking
Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over making sure to let some hot dog tips peek through for classic chili dog style
Bake and Finish:
Slide the dish into your oven Bake for twenty to twenty five minutes or until the cheese is fully melted bubbling and lightly browned and the hot dogs are slightly blistered
Cool and Serve:
Let the casserole rest for five minutes before slicing This makes it easier to portion and gives the flavors a chance to meld
A pan of chili with hot dogs in it.
