Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or planning a casual weekend party, this hot dog casserole is sure to become a tried-and-true favorite after just one bite. Packed with familiar ingredients and a twist that makes it uniquely delicious, it’s perfect for satisfying appetites of all ages. Plus, it combines the nostalgic flavors of hot dogs with the comforting ease of a casserole. Top with your go-to garnishes, serve with classic hot dog sides and get ready to dig in!
Hot Dog Casserole Ingredients
- Butter: Butter, flour and milk are needed to create a white bechamel sauce—aka a roux—for this casserole recipe.
- Flour: Flour acts as a thickening agent for the sauce. We used all-purpose flour, but you could use gluten-free flour such as almond, buckwheat or brown rice if needed.
- Milk: Milk is the final ingredient for this creamy white sauce. Opt for 2%, unless you’re trying to make this casserole vegan, in which case plant-based milk can be used but may alter the final casserole results.
- Red potatoes: Instead of crust or buns in this hot dog casserole, we used red potatoes as another layer for a bit of starch. Another waxy spud such as Yukon Golds or fingerlings would also do.
- Hot dogs: The star of the show! You’ll need one package of hot dogs, halved lengthwise and cut into 1/2-inch slices.
- Onion: Onions and cheese are a natural ingredient combo for hot dogs and play an essential role in the creation of this casserole.
- Cheddar cheese: Gotta have it for an ooey, gooey, cheesy casserole.
- Green onions (optional): Chopped scallions are the perfect garnish for a bit of green and fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Directions
Step 1: Make the bechamel sauce
Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a small saucepan, melt the butter. Stir in the flour, salt and pepper until smooth, then gradually add the milk. Bring to a boil, then cook and stir until it’s thickened and bubbly, about two minutes.
Step 2: Build your casserole
In a greased 2-1/2-quart baking dish, layer a third of the potatoes, half the hot dogs and half the onion. Repeat the layers, and top with the remaining potatoes. Pour the white sauce over all.
Step 3: Bake
Bake, covered, for one hour. Then uncover the casserole and sprinkle it with cheese; bake again until the potatoes are tender, 10 to 15 minutes longer. Garnish with green onions before serving, if desired.
Hot Dog Casserole Variations
- Switch the protein: Instead of hot dogs, you could use chorizo or brats, which would be delicious. Or keep the dogs and double up on protein with some crispy bacon strips scattered on top.
- Swap the cheese: Try American, pepper jack, Monterey Jack, a three-cheese blend, even Velveeta.
- Add tots: Not feeling the red potatoes? Go for tater tots or shredded hash browns.
- Layer the sides inside: Traditional hot dog side dishes like mac and cheese, baked beans and cornbread can be baked inside the casserole, if you really want to take it to the next level.
- Get creative with toppings: In addition to the scallions, you could use chili, salsa, coleslaw, mustard and ketchup, barbecue sauce, sliced jalapenos, more cheese, dill pickle relish or a combo of garnishes.
How to Store Hot Dog Casserole
Like other casserole recipes, you can transfer any leftovers to airtight containers or simply leave them in the baking dish and cover it with tin foil or plastic wrap for ease.
How long does hot dog casserole last?
This casserole keeps well in the fridge for three to four days.
Can you freeze hot dog casserole?
We don’t recommend freezing this hot dog casserole recipe, so make sure you eat it up! For reference, here’s how long other leftovers last.
Hot Dog Casserole Tips
Can I use pasta instead of potatoes?
Absolutely! Layer in elbow macaroni or another short-cut pasta if you don’t have potatoes on hand. Or wrap up the hog dogs in tortillas for an enchilada-style casserole.
How can I make hot dog casserole taste better?
Try adding more fresh herbs or citrus zest from lemons. You could even caramelize the onions beforehand to give them a sweet earthy flavor. For a kick, try red pepper flakes, hot sauce or a few taps of Cajun seasoning blend.
What can I serve with hot dog casseroles?
A hot dog casserole pairs well with a side salad and biscuits or cornbread.
