Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Bake

I’m so glad you’re here—truly! This one’s for the busy weeknights, the picky eaters, the chilly evenings, and everyone who just wants something fun and satisfying on the table fast. This Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Bake is comfort food at its finest: creamy, cheesy, meaty, and packed with bold flavor in every bite.

Whether you’re feeding a family, a game day crowd, or just yourself with big leftovers in mind—this recipe brings the classic chili cheese dog vibe into a cozy, one-dish wonder.

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🧾 Overview of the Recipe

This dish combines pasta, beefy hot dogs, flavorful chili, gooey cheese, and all your favorite toppings into a baked casserole that’s equal parts nostalgic and delicious.

Why You’ll Love It:

• One pan. One bake. Big flavor.

• Fast and fuss-free—minimal prep and clean-up

• Customizable—add spice, swap proteins, or make it meatless

• Kid-approved and game-day perfect

• Ultimate leftover gold—it reheats like a dream

🌭 What It Tastes Like

It’s creamy, rich, savory, and cheesy with just a little spice if you like it that way. Think chili cheese dog meets baked mac and cheese—with smoky hot dogs and tender pasta in every bite. One taste and you’ll know: this is not your average casserole.

🛒 Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni

• 2 cups beef hot dogs, sliced

• 1 can (15 oz) chili (with or without beans)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup diced onion

• ½ cup diced tomatoes

• ¼ cup sliced jalapeños (optional)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Butter or spray for greasing your baking dish

🧰 Tools You’ll Need

• Medium saucepan (for pasta)

• Skillet (for sautéing hot dogs)

• Large mixing bowl

• 9×13-inch baking dish

• Spatula or spoon

• Knife and cutting board

🔄 Ingredient Additions & Swaps

• Meatless option: use veggie dogs and vegetarian chili

• Cheese upgrade: try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a cheese blend

• More heat: stir in a dash of cayenne or hot sauce

• Bean boost: add a handful of drained black or pinto beans

• Topping ideas: crushed tortilla chips, sour cream, or scallions

🥄 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook pasta

Boil elbow macaroni until just al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté hot dogs

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the sliced hot dogs until slightly crispy. This adds texture and flavor!

Step 4: Mix it up

In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, hot dogs, can of chili, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Step 5: Assemble the bake

Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Step 6: Bake to perfection

Bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling at the edges.

Step 7: Garnish and serve

Cool slightly before serving. Top with diced onion, tomatoes, and jalapeños if desired. Serve with a fork—or just dig in!

🍽 What to Serve With It

• A crisp side salad or coleslaw

• Cornbread or garlic bread

• Pickles or dill chips for tang

• Iced tea, soda, or cold beer for the grownups

💡 Tips for Success

• Cook pasta al dente—it continues to soften in the oven

• Browning the hot dogs brings extra smoky depth

• Taste the mix before baking and adjust seasoning

• Double the batch and freeze half for another meal!

🧊 Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days

• Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly

• Freeze baked (or unbaked) portions for up to 2 months—just wrap tightly and thaw overnight before reheating

ℹ️ General Info

This recipe turns pantry staples into a comforting masterpiece. Perfect for busy families or game day fans, it’s the kind of meal that earns repeat requests—especially from the little ones (and maybe even a few grown-up kids too!).

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chili from scratch?
Absolutely! Homemade chili will make this even more flavorful.

Not a fan of hot dogs?
Swap in cooked ground beef, turkey, sausage, or plant-based meat.

Can I make it in advance?
Yes! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Then bake as usual.

What if I want it creamier?
Add a splash of milk or dollop of sour cream into the mix before baking.

❤️ Conclusion

This Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Bake brings the best of comfort food together in one simple, saucy dish. Whether you’re feeding your family, impressing your friends, or just craving something warm and nostalgic, this recipe hits the spot every time.

🍽 More Cozy Casseroles You’ll Love

• Cheesy Baked Potato & Broccoli Casserole

• Slow-Cooker Hot Dog Chili

• Big Mac Wraps

• Biscuit-Topped Cheeseburger Bake

✨ Did you make this recipe? I’d love to see it! Leave a review, snap a photo, or tag me—let’s share the love, one cheesy bite at a time.

📊 Nutritional Estimate (per serving, 6 servings)

Thanks for cooking with me today. Here’s to comfort food that brings smiles, seconds, and maybe even a few happy “mmms.” 🧀🌭🍽