Description
Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Bake is a fun, family-friendly comfort dish that combines all the flavors of a classic chili cheese dog with hearty pasta. Packed with smoky hot dogs, zesty chili, melty cheese, and tender pasta, it’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner that kids and adults will love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz pasta (elbow macaroni or rotini)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb hot dogs, sliced into rounds
- 1 can (15 oz) chili (with or without beans)
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (optional for topping)
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Stir in sliced hot dogs and cook until lightly browned.
- Add chili, ketchup, mustard, chili powder, and black pepper. Stir to combine and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix everything together.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by mozzarella if using.
- Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with green onions or parsley before serving, if desired.
Notes
- Use beef, turkey, or plant-based hot dogs depending on your dietary preference.
- Add a can of diced tomatoes or jalapeños for extra flavor and spice.
- This recipe can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: chili cheese dog pasta, baked pasta, hot dog casserole, cheesy pasta bake, comfort food