Chili Cheese Crescent Hot Dog Bake

The Chili Cheese Crescent Hot Dog Bake is the ultimate mash-up of comfort food classics—perfect for casual family dinners, game day gatherings, or anytime you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and satisfying. This easy-to-make recipe wraps juicy hot dogs in soft, flaky crescent roll dough, bakes them to golden perfection, and serves them smothered in rich, savory chili and melted cheddar cheese. It’s a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing dish that delivers all the flavors of chili cheese dogs in a fun and convenient casserole-style format.

With minimal prep and familiar ingredients, this recipe transforms humble pantry staples into something irresistible. The combination of buttery crescent rolls, smoky hot dogs, zesty chili, and gooey cheese creates a layered dish that’s comforting and indulgent. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for an easy recipe to impress at your next potluck, this bake is a guaranteed hit. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings and variations to suit your taste. If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying meal with big flavor and low effort, look no further than this Chili Cheese Crescent Hot Dog Bake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: Uses simple, store-bought ingredients and comes together in under an hour.
2. Kid-Friendly: Combines flavors kids already love—hot dogs, cheese, and crescent rolls.
3. Perfect for Gatherings: Great for parties, game nights, or potlucks.
4. Comfort Food Classic: Satisfies with warm chili, melty cheese, and buttery bread.
5. Customizable: Easily adaptable with different meats, cheeses, or chili types.

Ingredients

• Hot dogs
• Crescent rolls
• Cheddar cheese (grated)
• Canned chili
• Butter (melted)
• Parsley (minced)
• Garlic salt

Variations

• Spicy Version: Use hot chili, pepper jack cheese, or add jalapeños on top.
• Turkey or Chicken Dogs: Swap regular hot dogs for a leaner option.
• Chili Mac Style: Add a layer of cooked macaroni before pouring on the chili.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based hot dogs and vegetarian chili.
• Extra Toppings: Top with diced onions, sour cream, or crushed tortilla chips before serving.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2:

Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into triangles.

Step 3:

Wrap each hot dog with one crescent roll triangle, starting at the wide end and rolling toward the tip.

Step 4:

Place the wrapped hot dogs in the prepared baking dish, spacing them evenly.

Step 5:

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with parsley and garlic salt.

Step 6:

Brush the tops of the crescent-wrapped hot dogs with the seasoned butter mixture.

Step 7:

Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown.

Step 8:

While the hot dogs are baking, warm the chili in a saucepan over medium heat.

Step 9:

Once the hot dogs are golden, remove from oven. Pour the hot chili evenly over them.

Step 10:

Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the chili. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 11:

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Thaw crescent roll dough in the fridge before using if stored frozen.
• Use high-quality chili for best flavor, especially if not making your own.
• Line the baking dish with parchment for easier cleanup.
• Don’t overbake the crescent rolls initially, since they’ll return to the oven.
• Add extra cheese on top for a gooey finish.

How to Serve

Serve hot, straight from the baking dish, with a side of coleslaw, potato wedges, or a simple salad. It’s also great with classic hot dog toppings like mustard or diced onions on the side. For a party, slice into smaller portions and serve as finger food.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the dish to cool completely, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen before adding the chili and cheese. Assemble the crescent-wrapped hot dogs, freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a bag. When ready, bake, then add chili and cheese as directed.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade chili?

Yes, homemade chili works great and adds a personalized touch to the dish.

2. Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend would all be delicious.

3. Do I need to pre-cook the hot dogs?

No, they’re already fully cooked and will heat through during baking.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can assemble the wrapped hot dogs ahead and refrigerate them. Add chili and cheese just before the final bake.

5. What type of chili should I use?

Use your favorite canned or homemade chili, with or without beans based on preference.

6. Can I use biscuit dough instead of crescent rolls?

Yes, but the texture will be denser and may need extra baking time.

7. How do I keep the crescent rolls from getting soggy?

Bake until golden before adding the chili to keep them crisp.

8. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, especially if you freeze the wrapped hot dogs before baking. Add chili and cheese after thawing and baking.

9. Can I use mini hot dogs for bite-sized portions?

Yes, use mini dogs and cut the dough accordingly for appetizer-style servings.

10. How many people does this serve?

Typically, it serves 4–6 people, depending on appetite and sides served.

Conclusion

The Chili Cheese Crescent Hot Dog Bake is a fast, filling, and flavorful dish that transforms everyday ingredients into something special. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or putting together a casual game day menu, this bake offers all the comfort and satisfaction of a chili cheese dog in a warm, baked format. It’s simple to prepare, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to disappear fast. Try it once, and it just might become a new go-to in your recipe rotation.

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