# Chili Cheese Hot Dog Recipe
This chili cheese hot dog recipe transforms your beloved dogs and buns by generously coating them in zesty chili and loads of gooey cheddar for a show-stopping delight. Ideal for game days, potlucks, or a late-night treat, these chili cheese dogs are bound to satisfy any audience.
## Ingredient Tips for Chili Cheese Dogs
– **Chili:** You can whip up a quick homemade chili or opt for leftover or canned chili for ease.
– **Hot Dogs:** Select from beef, pork, chicken, or even veggie-based hot dogs to match your taste.
– **Buns:** Choose durable buns that can hold all the chili and cheese. For extra flavor, split the buns, brush them with butter, and bake them while the chili is warming up.
– **Cheese:** Sharp cheddar cheese melts wonderfully and provides a tangy taste that pairs perfectly with the chili.
## How to Make Chili Cheese Dogs
1. **Prepare the Chili:** In a skillet, mix chili, hot water, and hot dogs. Cook until the chili thickens, around 5-7 minutes.
2. **Bake the Buns:** As the chili thickens, slice the hot dog buns from the top and brush them with butter. Bake for about 5 minutes.
3. **Assemble the Dogs:** Stuff each bun with a hot dog, ladle chili on top, and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Bake until the buns are crispy and the cheese is melted, approximately 15 minutes.
### Tips for Customization
– Set up a topping station with choices like diced onions, jalapenos, green chiles, crispy fried onions, bacon bits, Tabasco, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing.
– For a traditional Cincinnati Coney dog, add homemade chili sauce. For a hearty Chicago dog, incorporate giardiniera. You can also wrap hot dogs in bacon and fry them for a favored food truck delicacy called a Danger Dog.
– Try pretzel hot dog buns or wrap hot dogs in crescent rolls for a fun twist. You can also utilize melted Velveeta or a homemade cheese sauce instead of cheddar.
## Storing Leftovers
Cooked and cooled hot dogs and chili can be kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat them on the stove or in the microwave, and use fresh buns. Alternatively, chop the hot dogs, reheat with the chili, and serve over chili cheese fries or baked potatoes.
## Nutritional Information (per serving)
– **Calories:** 428
– **Carbohydrates:** 34g
– **Protein:** 20g
– **Fat:** 24g
– **Saturated Fat:** 10g
– **Cholesterol:** 65mg
– **Sodium:** 961mg
– **Potassium:** 251mg
– **Fiber:** 1g
– **Sugar:** 4g
## Conclusion
These chili cheese dogs are not only tasty but also adaptable, offering a range of toppings and variations. Whether you’re throwing a party or simply savoring a cozy night at home, this recipe is guaranteed to be a success. Relish your culinary creation!