If you’re searching for an easy, family-friendly dish that’s both delicious and versatile, look no further than the hot dog casserole. This dish combines classic ingredients like hot dogs, pasta, and cheese to create a savory meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you need a quick dinner or want to prepare ahead for a party, this casserole offers customization options to suit every preference. Plus, it pairs well with other comfort food classics. For example, if you’re into cheesy and creamy dishes, you might also enjoy this Creamy Chicken Casserole for another crowd-pleaser.
For more casserole inspiration, check out this guide on Casserole Recipes from AllRecipes.
Why You’ll Love Hot Dog Casserole
This baked dish is budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and perfect for meal prepping. You can assemble it ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when needed—making it a great option for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Its cheesy goodness and savory flavors make it a hit with both kids and adults.
What’s more, this versatile recipe allows you to customize ingredients to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Add extra vegetables, swap in low-carb options, or make it vegetarian with plant-based sausages. It’s also a great way to use up leftovers, reducing waste while delivering comfort food perfection.
For those who love experimenting with casseroles, try this Hashbrown Casserole Recipe—another hearty and flavorful option that pairs beautifully with hot dog casserole.
Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck favorite, hot dog casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients for Hot Dog Casserole
Main Ingredients
- Hot Dogs: Choose beef, chicken, or vegetarian options.
- Vegetables: Popular choices include green beans, peas, and onions.
- Sauces: Use cream of mushroom soup or cheddar cheese sauce.
- Toppings: Options include mashed potatoes, biscuits, or shredded cheese.
Additional Ingredients
- Carbohydrates: Add elbow macaroni or rice for a hearty base.
- Spices: Incorporate paprika, garlic powder, and pepper for flavor.
- Low-Carb Options: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
Ingredients 
- 8 hot dogs, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups cooked pasta (elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini work best)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or substitute with cream of chicken for a different flavor)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup milk (whole milk or 2% recommended for creaminess)
- 1 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon for added flavor)
- ½ cup chopped onions (optional but adds a savory bite)
- Salt and pepper to taste (adjust seasoning as desired)
Optional Ingredients for Variations
- Vegetables: Add peas, corn, broccoli, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
- Spices and Herbs: Mix in paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or parsley for enhanced flavor.
- Toppings: Use breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or French fried onions for a crunchy finish.
- Proteins: Swap hot dogs for smoked sausage, turkey dogs, or plant-based options for variety.
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare Ingredients:
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Slice hot dogs into bite-sized rounds for even distribution in the casserole.
3. Make the Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, mustard, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- For added flavor, sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of paprika.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the cooked pasta evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Add the sliced hot dogs on top of the pasta layer.
- Pour the cheese sauce mixture over the pasta and hot dogs, ensuring everything is coated evenly.
- Use a spoon or spatula to gently mix the ingredients in the dish to distribute the sauce thoroughly.
5. Add Toppings (Optional):
- Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese on top for a gooey finish.
- For a crispy topping, add a layer of breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or French fried onions.
6. Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20–25 minutes until heated through.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- If desired, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a crispy cheese topping.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for added color and flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Since the pasta will continue cooking in the oven, keep it al dente to avoid mushiness.
- Customize the Sauce: For a richer flavor, mix in sour cream, cream cheese, or ranch dressing to the sauce.
- Add Spice: If you like heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or add jalapeños for a spicy twist.
- Make It Crunchy: Adding breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips on top before baking adds a satisfying crunch.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair this casserole with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or coleslaw for a balanced meal.
- Serve with a pickle spear or potato wedges for added texture and flavor.
- Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a weeknight dinner when you need something quick and satisfying.
Storage and Reheating:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or microwave single servings until warm. Add a splash of milk if the casserole seems dry after reheating.
Popular Variations
1. Chili Cheese Dog Casserole
- Add chili (canned or homemade) and mix it with the pasta and hot dogs before baking.
- Top with plenty of shredded cheddar cheese for a rich, melty finish.
- Garnish with green onions or sour cream for extra flavor.
- Perfect for spicy food lovers or those looking for a Tex-Mex twist.
2. Corn Dog Casserole
- Replace the pasta layer with a cornbread mix for a crispy, golden crust.
- Layer the sliced hot dogs on top and bake until the cornbread is set and browned.
- Add a drizzle of honey mustard or ketchup before serving for that classic corn dog flavor.
- Ideal for kids or anyone who loves a sweet and savory combo.
3. Vegetarian Casserole
- Swap out traditional hot dogs for plant-based sausages or veggie dogs.
- Add bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or other vegetables for extra nutrients.
- Use vegan cheese and dairy-free sauces to make it completely vegan-friendly.
- Great for meat-free Mondays or serving guests with dietary preferences.
4. Low-Carb Casserole
- Replace pasta with zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or spaghetti squash to keep it low-carb.
- Mix in cream cheese or sour cream for added creaminess without the carbs.
- Top with crispy bacon bits or Parmesan cheese for an extra kick.
- Perfect for those following a keto diet or low-carb lifestyle.
5. Breakfast Hot Dog Casserole
- Add scrambled eggs and hashbrowns to create a breakfast-inspired twist.
- Mix in hot dogs and cheddar cheese, then bake until golden brown.
- Serve with a side of salsa or hot sauce for a zesty start to the day.
For those who enjoy experimenting with flavors, consider pairing this recipe with a Spinach Ravioli for a well-rounded meal.
Nutritional Information
A single serving of hot dog casserole typically contains:
- Calories: 330
- Fat: 24g (11g saturated fat)
- Carbohydrates: 18g (4g sugar, 2g fiber)
- Protein: 11g
- Sodium: Approximately 967mg (depending on ingredients used)
This makes it a hearty and filling dish, perfect for satisfying hunger. However, due to its higher fat and sodium content, it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Healthier Options
1. Use Lean or Low-Fat Ingredients:
- Replace regular hot dogs with turkey dogs, chicken sausages, or plant-based alternatives for a leaner protein option.
- Opt for low-fat shredded cheese or reduced-fat cream soup to cut down on calories and fat.
2. Increase Fiber Content:
- Add extra vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to boost fiber and nutrients.
- Incorporate whole wheat pasta or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein.
3. Reduce Carbohydrates:
- Swap out pasta for cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or spaghetti squash to make it low-carb and keto-friendly.
- Substitute the cream-based sauce with a mix of Greek yogurt and low-fat milk for a lighter texture.
4. Lower Sodium Levels:
- Choose low-sodium soups and unsalted seasonings to reduce sodium content.
- Use fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil for flavor instead of salt.
5. Boost Protein:
- Add extra lean chicken, turkey sausage, or black beans for a protein-packed meal.
Serving Size Adjustments:
For those following calorie-controlled diets, you can reduce the portion size and pair the casserole with:
- Fresh salads or steamed vegetables to make the meal more filling without adding excess calories.
- A side of fruit salad for a light and refreshing balance.
By making a few simple substitutions and additions, you can enjoy this comfort food favorite guilt-free while meeting your dietary needs!
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Pair with coleslaw, potato salad, or green beans.
- Drinks: Serve with iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water.
- Garnishes: Add sour cream, parsley, or crispy onions.
If you’re in need of a refreshing side, you may enjoy this Asian Pasta Salad as a flavorful complement to your casserole.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigeration
- Store leftovers in an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Keeps well in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
- For best results, allow the casserole to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation that could make it soggy.
Freezing
- For longer storage, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe dish or divide it into individual portions for quick meals.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Label with the date for easy tracking—can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Pro Tip: Freeze unbaked casseroles for later cooking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding 5–10 extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
Reheating
Oven Method:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cover with foil to retain moisture and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through.
- Remove foil during the last 5 minutes to crisp up the topping if desired.
Microwave Method:
- For quick reheating, transfer a portion to a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover lightly and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Pro Tip: Add a splash of milk or broth before reheating if the casserole appears dry to restore its creamy texture.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Assemble the casserole and store it unbaked in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Bake it fresh when ready to serve for a quick and hassle-free meal.
With proper storage and reheating, your hot dog casserole can remain fresh, flavorful, and satisfying even days after it’s made!
FAQs
Q: Can I make hot dog casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: What’s a healthier alternative to cream of mushroom soup?
A: Replace it with Greek yogurt-based sauces or cheddar cheese sauce.
Q: How can I add more vegetables?
A: Toss in zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli for added nutrients.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and sauces, or check out this Gluten-Free Breakfast Casserole for more ideas.
Final Thoughts
Hot dog casserole is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. With customizable ingredients and endless variations, it’s easy to create a version that fits your taste preferences.
For more creative casserole ideas, visit this Casserole Recipe Collection to find new dishes for your next meal!