Description
Ultimate Chili Cheese Hot Dog
Say hello to the king of hot dogs! This Chili Cheese Hot Dog is loaded with bold beefy chili, rich cheddar cheese, and a creamy drizzle, making it an irresistible meal for any occasion.
You’ll Need:
4 hot dog buns, toasted
4 all-beef hot dogs
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup beef chili, cooked
¼ cup mayo
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
What’s your favorite side for chili dogs—fries or onion rings?
#ChiliDogLover
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare your ingredients: Cook the beef chili if using homemade, shred the cheddar cheese, chop the parsley, and have your hot dogs and buns ready.
2. Cook the hot dogs: Grill, pan-fry, or boil the all-beef hot dogs according to your preference until they are heated through and have nice grill marks or are plump.
3. Toast the buns: Lightly toast the hot dog buns in a toaster, on the grill, or in a skillet with a little butter until golden and crisp.
4. Assemble the base: Place a cooked hot dog into each toasted bun.
5. Add the chili: Spoon a generous 1/4 cup of warm beef chili over each hot dog, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
6. Top with cheese: Immediately sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the hot chili so it begins to melt.
7. Add the drizzle: In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with a teaspoon of water to make it drizzly, then drizzle it over the assembled dogs.
8. Garnish and serve: Finish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty hot dog is a meal in itself, but it pairs perfectly with classic sides. Serve with a pile of crispy French fries, crunchy onion rings, or a simple coleslaw to cut through the richness. For a lighter option, offer pickle spears, jalapeño slices, or a fresh garden salad. Don’t forget plenty of napkins!
How-to Summary
Toast buns, cook hot dogs, top with warm chili and shredded cheddar for melting, then finish with a creamy mayo drizzle and fresh parsley garnish. Serve immediately while hot and melty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. While cheddar is classic, pepper jack adds spice, and a melty American cheese creates a fantastic gooey texture.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian? Easily! Use plant-based hot dogs and a hearty vegetarian bean or lentil chili. Vegan cheese and mayo also work perfectly.
Can I prepare the chili ahead of time? Yes, making the chili a day ahead often improves the flavor. Simply reheat it gently before assembling your hot dogs.
What’s the best way to get the cheese to melt properly? The key is to use warm-to-hot chili. The heat from the chili and hot dog will melt freshly shredded cheese beautifully. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it contains anti-caking agents that hinder melting.
Any tips for a less messy eat? For a “snug” fit that holds toppings better, slice your hot dog down the middle (butterflying) before cooking. Also, consider using slightly sturdier buns like brioche or potato rolls.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using cold chili, as it will cool the hot dog and prevent the cheese from melting. Don’t over-toast the buns, or they may become crumbly and fall apart. Skipping the bun toasting step results in a soggy bun quickly. Overloading the hot dog can make it impossible to eat neatly—balance your toppings. Finally, using pre-shredded bagged cheese can lead to a less creamy melt.
Conclusion
The Ultimate Chili Cheese Hot Dog is more than just a quick meal; it’s a customizable classic packed with satisfying flavors and textures. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s perfect for game day, summer barbecues, or a fun weeknight dinner. Experiment with your favorite chili recipe and toppings to make it your own.
