Cheesy Hot Dog Tater Tot Casserole

Cheesy Hot Dog Tater Tot Casserole is pure comfort food that reminds me of quick weeknight dinners and fun gatherings. It is hearty bubbly and covered with plenty of gooey cheese so every bite is satisfying and craveworthy. This is one of those dinners you can toss together in just a few minutes but the reward is always huge smiles and requests for seconds.

This is a go to recipe when I need something both comforting and fun My kids love helping place the tater tots on top and it always vanishes in record time.

Ingredients

• Hot dogs cut into slices: A nostalgic savory base Choose your favorite brand for the best flavor
• Canned chili with or without beans: Deepens the richness Use a brand with bold spices for extra flavor
• Ketchup: Adds a tangy sweet note Be sure to use a good quality ketchup for the best results
• Worcestershire sauce: Finishes the filling with a pop of umami Choose a sauce that is aged for more depth
• Finely chopped onion: Brings natural sweetness and texture Look for firm onions without blemishes
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Offers a mild kick For a spicier dish use fresh red pepper or increase the flakes
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into every layer Buy a block and shred it yourself for better melt and flavor
• Frozen tater tots: Creates a crispy golden top Use fresh frozen tots and arrange them in a single even layer

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and coat a nine by thirteen inch baking dish with cooking spray Make sure to cover the corners to prevent sticking

Mix the Filling:

Add sliced hot dogs canned chili ketchup Worcestershire sauce finely chopped onion and red pepper flakes into a large bowl Combine thoroughly so every piece of hot dog is coated with chili and seasonings

Assemble in Pan:

Spread the hot dog and chili mixture evenly in the bottom of your prepared pan Press gently to create an even base

Add Cheese Layer:

Sprinkle one and a half cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the chili mixture Make sure the cheese reaches all corners for an even melt

Arrange the Tater Tots:

Lay the frozen tater tots in a single even layer over the cheese Try to avoid overlapping so each tot gets crispy

Bake First Round:

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for thirty minutes The tater tots will start to turn golden and the filling will be bubbling around the edges

Add More Cheese and Finish Baking:

Carefully take the pan out and sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese over the hot crispy tater tots Return to oven and bake for another ten minutes The cheese should melt, bubble and cascade over the tots

Let Cool and Serve:

Allow the casserole to rest for five minutes before cutting This helps everything set and makes serving easier

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Cheddar cheese is what brings it all together for me I always opt for extra sharp and shred it myself for that irresistible stretch I will never forget my youngest’s first bite his wide eyes and big cheesy grin made this an instant family favorite

Storage Tips

For leftovers let the casserole cool completely before covering and refrigerating It will last for three to four days in the fridge Reheat portions in the oven or microwave for a crunchy top If freezing wrap tightly and store up to two months Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven until bubbling

Ingredient Swaps

Switch out the hot dogs for cooked sliced sausage or plant based dogs if you like a different protein If you have no chili on hand try using a mix of canned beans and tomato sauce with chili powder Pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese can be used for more melt and a bit of heat

Serving Ideas

Serve with a crisp green salad and a bright vinaigrette to balance the richness Pickles coleslaw or sliced jalapenos give a tasty contrast If you want to make it more of a meal add a side of steamed veggies

Nostalgic Roots

Tater tot casserole recipes first showed up in Midwestern community cookbooks decades ago This version with hot dogs and chili is a playful twist that reminds many of their favorite childhood comfort foods Every bite feels like a throwback to family nights and easygoing potlucks

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Casserole leftovers make a fantastic lunch the next day Warm up and savor the nostalgic flavors all over again.