Loaded Chili Cheese Pasta

This loaded chili cheese dog pasta bake combines two iconic comfort foods into one family-friendly casserole that's sure to become a weeknight favorite. The familiar flavors of chili cheese dogs meet the heartiness of pasta in a dish that's equally perfect for game day gatherings or simple family dinners.

I first created this dish when looking for creative ways to stretch our dinner budget. My children immediately declared it their new favorite meal, and it has since become our go-to solution for busy weeknights when we need something filling and satisfying.

Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni: Forms the hearty base of this casserole and its small shape catches all the delicious sauce
• Beef hot dogs: Provide that classic hot dog flavor everyone loves while adding protein to the dish
• Canned chili: Saves significant prep time and brings authentic chili dog flavor look for a quality brand with a flavor profile you enjoy
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Creates that irresistible melty topping choose a medium or sharp cheddar for best flavor
• Diced onion: Adds essential savory notes and texture to balance the richness fresh onion works best but pre diced can save time

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Set your oven to 375°F while you prepare the other ingredients. This temperature is perfect for melting the cheese without drying out the pasta. Use this time to grease your baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Cook Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding your elbow macaroni. Cook the pasta for about 1 minute less than the package directions indicate. This slight undercooking ensures your pasta won't become mushy during the baking process. Drain thoroughly but do not rinse to maintain the starches that help sauce adhesion.

Brown Hot Dogs:

Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the sliced hot dogs in a single layer and cook until they develop a nice brown color with some caramelization on the edges. This browning process adds significant flavor through the Maillard reaction. Stir occasionally to ensure even browning on all sides.

Combine Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, add your slightly undercooked pasta, browned hot dogs, entire can of chili, most of the shredded cheese reserving about a quarter cup for topping, and the diced onion. Gently fold everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed. The residual heat from the pasta and hot dogs will slightly soften the onions.

Prepare For Baking:

Transfer your mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to the edges. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, focusing on even coverage for that perfect melty layer. If desired, a light sprinkle of paprika adds nice color.

Bake To Perfection:

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven on the middle rack. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, watching for the cheese to become fully melted with light golden brown spots. The edges should be slightly bubbling, indicating that everything is heated through completely.

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My favorite thing about this dish is how it transforms basic ingredients into something that tastes indulgent. I remember serving this at my sons birthday party, and several parents asked for the recipe. The combination of familiar flavors in a new format makes it both comforting and exciting.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty pasta bake stands well on its own, but pairing it with a simple green salad creates the perfect balance. The crisp, fresh vegetables provide a welcome contrast to the rich, cheesy pasta. For extra indulgence, serve with garlic bread for sopping up any sauce. Consider setting out additional toppings like sour cream, sliced green onions, or pickled jalapeños so everyone can customize their portion.

Storage And Reheating

This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a tablespoon of water or milk before microwaving to maintain moisture. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil until heated through, then uncover for the last few minutes to re-crisp the top. This pasta bake also freezes well in individual portions for up to two months.

Easy Variations

This versatile recipe welcomes many adaptations to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand. Try using different pasta shapes like rotini or penne for varied texture. Substitute turkey hot dogs or even plant based sausages for a lighter version. Add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for a southwestern kick. For extra nutrition, stir in a cup of frozen corn or black beans before baking. The basic formula remains the same, making this a perfect template for endless variations.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with similar pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells. Just ensure it cooks al dente for best results.

→ What type of hot dogs work best?

Beef hot dogs are recommended for their robust flavor, but you can use chicken, turkey, or plant-based hot dogs as alternatives.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the beef hot dogs with a plant-based variety and choose vegetarian chili for a delicious meat-free option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

→ Can I add extra ingredients?

Yes, feel free to customize the dish with extras like bell peppers, jalapeños, or even diced tomatoes for added flavor and texture.