This Cheesy Hot Dog Tater Tot Casserole is a fun, quick, and satisfying dish that combines some of your favorite comfort foods—tater tots, chili, hot dogs, and melty cheddar cheese—into one irresistible casserole. It’s a family-friendly recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or when you’re craving something hearty and easy to make.

Ingredients

1 package tater tots
1 can chili
1 package hot dogs, sliced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a layer of tater tots evenly in a greased baking dish.
Pour the chili over the tater tots, spreading it out to cover them completely.
Arrange the sliced hot dogs on top of the chili.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the entire dish.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the tater tots are crispy.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Swap the hot dogs with vegetarian hot dogs or use beans instead of chili for a meatless casserole.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the chili for extra heat.
Cheese Variety: Feel free to mix things up by using a combination of cheeses, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a different flavor.
Add Veggies: For a more balanced meal, add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or corn to the casserole before baking.
Use Homemade Chili: If you prefer homemade chili, feel free to use your favorite chili recipe instead of canned chili for a fresher taste.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

10 FAQs

Can I use frozen chili for this recipe?
Yes, frozen chili works just as well as canned chili. Thaw it before using it in the casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble it, cover it with foil, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, any cheese that melts well, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, will work in place of cheddar.
What if I don’t have hot dogs?
You can substitute sliced hot dogs with cooked sausage, ground beef, or even leftover chicken for a different protein.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, add sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a sprinkle of chili powder to give it a spicy kick.
Can I use sweet potatoes or another variety of tater tots?
Absolutely! You can use sweet potato tater tots or even other frozen potato products like hash browns if you prefer.
How do I prevent the casserole from being too greasy?
Use lean hot dogs or remove excess fat from the chili before pouring it into the dish. You can also use reduced-fat cheese for a lighter option.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, make sure to use gluten-free tater tots and check that the chili and hot dogs you choose are gluten-free.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as usual.
What should I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Hot Dog Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting and indulgent dish that comes together in no time, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. With its crispy tater tots, savory chili, juicy hot dogs, and melted cheese, it’s a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy meal, this casserole is sure to become a favorite!