Cheesy Hot Dog Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. This dish combines the nostalgic flavors of hot dogs and chili with the crispy, golden goodness of tater tots, all smothered in melted cheddar cheese. It’s easy to make, requires minimal prep, and is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
- 8 hot dogs, cut into 1/2-inch slices: The star ingredient, adding a classic and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the other elements.
- 2 (15-ounce) cans chili (with or without beans): Provides a hearty base for the casserole, adding depth and a touch of spice.
- 3/4 cup ketchup: Adds a bit of sweetness and tang, enhancing the flavor of the chili.
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory, umami-rich flavor that complements the hot dogs and chili.
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped: Provides a subtle crunch and aromatic flavor, balancing the richness of the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a hint of heat, which can be adjusted to your preference.
- 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: The cheese melts into the chili and forms a gooey, cheesy layer over the tater tots, making the casserole irresistibly creamy and flavorful.
- 1 (28-ounce) bag frozen tater tots: The tater tots add a satisfying crunch and are the perfect topping for this cheesy, savory casserole.
Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and that the tater tots become perfectly crispy.
2. Prepare the Chili Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 (15-ounce) cans of chili, 3/4 cup ketchup, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 finely chopped medium onion, and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Add the 8 hot dogs, cut into 1/2-inch slices to the chili mixture, and stir until the hot dog slices are evenly distributed.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the chili and hot dog mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese over the chili mixture, creating a cheesy layer that will melt beautifully during baking.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the cheese. Ensure that the tater tots cover the entire surface of the casserole for maximum crispiness.
4. Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
5. Add More Cheese:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the tater tots.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and begins to brown slightly.
6. Serve:
- Once the casserole is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Serve the Cheesy Hot Dog Tater Tot Casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Use Quality Hot Dogs: The flavor of your hot dogs will have a significant impact on the overall taste of the casserole, so choose a brand you love.
- Customize the Chili: Feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade chili. If you like your chili spicier, add some extra hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar is classic, you can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack for added flavor.
- Add Vegetables: For a more nutritious twist, you can add some veggies like bell peppers, corn, or even spinach to the chili mixture.
- Make it Ahead: This casserole can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Why You’ll Love This Casserole:
- Kid-Friendly: The familiar flavors of hot dogs and tater tots make this a dish that kids will love. It’s a great way to serve something fun and different.
- Hearty and Filling: This casserole is packed with protein from the hot dogs and beans, making it a satisfying meal that will keep everyone full.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and a simple assembly process, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss.
- Comfort Food Classic: The combination of chili, hot dogs, cheese, and tater tots is the epitome of comfort food, bringing warmth and coziness to any meal.
Cheesy Hot Dog Tater Tot Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together some of the best comfort food ingredients in one easy-to-make meal. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for something fun and different for dinner, this casserole is sure to become a favorite. The crispy tater tots, gooey cheese, and savory hot dog chili base create a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Enjoy this dish with a side salad or some steamed veggies for a complete meal, and don’t be surprised if your family asks for seconds!
