Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Bake

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that brings together the best flavors of a classic chili cheese dog in a warm, cheesy pasta bake, you’re in for a treat. The Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Bake is a family-friendly meal that combines tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, rich chili, and a melty blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. It’s topped off with green onions and optional crispy turkey bacon for that extra layer of flavor and crunch. Whether you’re looking for a tasty weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this recipe delivers all the cozy goodness you’d expect from your favorite chili cheese dog — just in a delicious, easy-to-make pasta bake form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Bake is a total winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple to prepare but tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. The combination of chili with no beans and seasoned ground beef infuses the pasta with bold, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with gooey melted cheese. Plus, the green onions add a fresh bite, balancing out the richness. It’s also versatile; you can customize it with your favorite cheeses or throw in some extra veggies if you like. And because it’s baked, you get that irresistible golden crust on top that makes every bite extra special.

If you love the comforting vibe of a traditional Baked Ziti Recipe, this pasta bake offers a fun twist that brings a nostalgic chili cheese dog feel to the table. It’s a great way to switch up your pasta night routine without sacrificing any of the cozy factor.

What to Buy

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to soak up all the delicious sauce and cheese.
• 1 pound ground beef: Choose lean or regular, depending on your preference.
• 1 can (15 ounces) chili with no beans: Look for chili that’s rich and flavorful; this forms the base of the sauce.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar works beautifully for that classic chili cheese taste.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds a creamy, melty texture.
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions: For freshness and a mild onion flavor.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: To cook the beef and add richness.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory depth.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and complexity.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
• Turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional): A great topping that adds crunch and smoky flavor.

Before You Start: Equipment

• Large pot: For boiling the elbow macaroni.
• Large skillet: To brown the ground beef and sauté seasonings.
• Baking dish (9×13 inch recommended): To assemble and bake the pasta.
• Mixing spoon or spatula: For stirring the ingredients together.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate seasoning and ingredient amounts.
• Cheese grater (if shredding cheese yourself): Freshly shredded cheese melts better.

Stepwise Method: Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Bake

Step 1: Cook the elbow macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the ground beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add seasonings and chili

To the browned beef, sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Pour in the can of chili with no beans, mixing thoroughly. Simmer for 3-4 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 4: Combine pasta and meat mixture

In a large bowl or directly in the baking dish, combine the cooked macaroni with the chili and beef mixture. Mix well to ensure every noodle is coated with the chili goodness.

Step 5: Add cheeses and green onions

Fold in half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses along with the chopped green onions into the pasta mixture. This makes sure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the bake.

Step 6: Assemble and top

Transfer the macaroni mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. If you’re using turkey bacon, sprinkle the cooked and crumbled pieces over the cheese for a crispy finish.

Step 7: Bake until bubbly and golden

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the pasta for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown.

Step 8: Serve and garnish

Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with a few extra chopped green onions if you like, then scoop out generous portions and serve warm.

Warm & Cool Weather Spins

• In warmer months, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the beef mixture for a fresh, spicy kick.
• Top with sliced avocado and a dollop of sour cream for a cool contrast.
• For a smoky twist, sprinkle a bit of smoked paprika into the chili mix before baking.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad or your favorite Good Ole Mac And Cheese for an extra indulgent meal.

Author’s Commentary

This Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Bake has quickly become one of my go-to recipes for busy nights. It’s a great way to bring the nostalgic flavors of a classic ballpark snack into a family-friendly casserole. The best part? It’s a hands-off bake that doesn’t require constant attention, freeing you up while the oven works its magic.

• I love using a combination of cheddar and mozzarella because cheddar adds sharpness, while mozzarella gives that delightful stretch and creaminess.
• If you want to kick it up a notch, adding a sprinkle of diced pickles or a drizzle of mustard on top after baking can mimic the true chili cheese dog experience.
• Don’t skip the green onions — they bring a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the cheese and meat.
• For a fun twist, try serving this pasta bake alongside Stadium Chili Cheese Nachos for a full game-day feast.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

Once baked, allow the pasta bake to cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through to keep the cheese melty and avoid drying out.

If you want to freeze the dish, prepare it through step 6 (assembling but before baking), cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Questions People Ask

Can I use different types of pasta for this bake?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic and perfect for soaking up the sauce, you can substitute with rotini, penne, or shells. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed, so your pasta isn’t over or undercooked.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Bake?

Yes! You can replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils for a vegetarian-friendly option. Use a vegetarian chili or a tomato-based sauce with similar spices to keep the flavor profile intact.

What’s the best way to make this dish spicier?

For extra heat, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the chili mixture. You can also use a spicy chili or add hot sauce to the beef while cooking. Just adjust to your preferred spice level!

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Definitely. You can assemble the pasta bake a day before, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When ready to eat, bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.

Weekend Projects

• Baked Ziti Recipe – Another cheesy, comforting pasta bake perfect for weekend cooking.
• Stadium Chili Cheese Nachos – Try these for a fun appetizer or side dish that complements the pasta bake beautifully.
• Good Ole Mac And Cheese – A classic macaroni and cheese that’s always a hit.

Serve & Enjoy

Serve your Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Bake straight from the oven with a side of crunchy salad or steamed veggies. This dish is perfect for casual dinners, game nights, or feeding a hungry crowd. Don’t forget to garnish with extra chopped green onions and, if you like, a drizzle of your favorite condiment to mimic that classic chili cheese dog flavor. Each cheesy, meaty bite will have everyone coming back for seconds!

This pasta bake is a delicious way to bring a familiar, beloved flavor into a new, comforting format. Whether it’s a weeknight staple or part of your weekend cooking projects, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy every cheesy, savory forkful!

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