Description
This Chili Dog Mac & Cheese is a quick and hearty comfort food mashup that combines creamy Velveeta shells and cheese with chili, hot dogs, and melted cheddar. Baked until bubbly, it’s a family-friendly casserole that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
1 (12 oz) box Velveeta shells & cheese
7–8 hot dogs, cooked and sliced into coins
1 (15 oz) can no-bean chili
1 (15.5 oz) can chili starter, drained & lightly rinsed
1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Diced white onion, for garnish
Pickled jalapenos, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook and prepare the Velveeta shells & cheese according to package directions.
- Once pasta is drained and cheese sauce is stirred in, add hot dogs, no-bean chili, chili starter, and 3/4 cup shredded cheddar. Stir until combined.
- Lightly spray a 2-quart baking dish with non-stick spray. Transfer mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, until hot, bubbly, and cheese is melted.
- Serve warm with optional garnishes such as diced onions and pickled jalapenos.
Notes
Use any brand of boxed mac and cheese if Velveeta is unavailable.
Make ahead by assembling the casserole and refrigerating before baking.
Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze up to 2 months.
For a smoky flavor, use grilled hot dogs.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (about 1/6 of recipe)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 1280mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
