Cheesy Chili Mac Casserole with Mini Hot Dogs

Cheesy Chili Mac Casserole with Mini Hot Dogs – A Family-Friendly Comfort Food Favorite

This Cheesy Chili Mac Casserole with Mini Hot Dogs is the ultimate weeknight dinner idea. Loaded with tender pasta, seasoned ground beef chili, gooey cheddar cheese, and mini hot dogs, it’s a hearty, nostalgic dish everyone at the table will love. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or picky eaters!

Ingredients

• 1 lb elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp chili powder

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp cumin

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 pack mini hot dogs (or sliced regular hot dogs)

‍ Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Chili

Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes.
Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in garlic, tomato paste, tomato sauce, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked pasta and chili.
Stir in half the shredded cheese.
Mix in mini hot dogs or scatter them on top.
Top with remaining cheese.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

• Want a kick? Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chili.

• Use smoked sausage for extra flavor if mini hot dogs aren’t available.

For more details, visit the full recipe

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