This Cheesy Hot Dog Tater Tot Casserole is a nostalgic, family-friendly comfort dish that’s packed with bold flavors and gooey goodness. Juicy hot dogs, hearty chili, and melty cheddar cheese come together under a crispy layer of golden tater tots. It’s the ultimate weeknight dinner—quick, satisfying, and always a hit with kids and adults alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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Easy and quick: Just 10 minutes of prep time!
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Budget-friendly ingredients: Pantry staples and affordable proteins.
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Crowd-pleaser: Great for kids, picky eaters, and game-day gatherings.
Ingredients Breakdown
Main Casserole Base:
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Hot Dogs (8, sliced into ½-inch pieces):
Adds a classic, savory bite and plenty of kid-approved flavor. -
Chili (2 cans, 15 oz each):
Acts as the hearty, flavorful base—choose with or without beans depending on preference. -
Ketchup (¾ cup):
Adds sweetness and tang to balance the chili. -
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tsp):
Brings in umami richness and depth. -
Onion (½ medium, finely chopped):
Adds subtle aromatic flavor and a bit of texture. -
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (¼ tsp):
Optional heat—just enough to warm things up without overpowering.
Cheesy Layers:
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Shredded Cheddar Cheese (2½ cups total):
Divided between layers for creamy, melty goodness throughout.
Topping:
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Frozen Tater Tots (1 bag, 28 oz):
Crispy, golden crown for the casserole—bakes to perfection right on top.
Tips and Tricks:
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Want it spicier? Add jalapeños or use spicy chili.
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Extra crunch: Broil the casserole for the last 2–3 minutes for ultra-crispy tots.
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Make it meaty: Mix in cooked ground beef or sausage for a meat-lovers’ version.
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Low-sodium option: Choose low-salt hot dogs and chili to reduce sodium content.
Variations and Customizations:
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Vegetarian version: Use plant-based hot dogs and meatless chili.
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Breakfast twist: Swap hot dogs for breakfast sausage and add scrambled eggs.
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Tex-Mex style: Add taco seasoning and top with sour cream and green onions.
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Cheese lovers: Mix in pepper jack or mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
Pairing Suggestions:
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Sides: Serve with a crisp garden salad, coleslaw, or buttered corn.
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Drinks: Root beer, iced tea, or a cold beer for adults.
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Desserts: Finish with brownies or banana pudding for a true comfort food feast.
Storage Instructions:
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze baked and cooled casserole for up to 2 months. Reheat at 350°F until warmed through.
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Reheating Tip: Tater tots may lose crispiness when microwaved. Use an oven or air fryer to restore crunch.
Popular Questions:
Can I use homemade chili?
Absolutely! Leftover homemade chili works beautifully in this recipe.
What other cheeses work well?
Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheddar blend for different flavor profiles.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything except the final cheese layer. Refrigerate overnight and bake the next day, adding the last layer of cheese before the final 10 minutes of baking.