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Corn Dog Casserole

Corn Dog Casserole

Corn Dog Casserole is a warm, comforting, and family-friendly dish that combines the nostalgic flavors of classic corn dogs into a cheesy, easy-to-make casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, this recipe layers juicy hot dogs, creamy melted cheddar cheese, and sweet cornbread for a crowd-pleasing meal that’s ready in under an hour.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 68 hot dogs, sliced into bite-sized rounds
  • 1 package of cornbread mix (about 8.5 oz or according to package instructions)
  • 1 to 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated or cubed
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup melted butter (plus extra for greasing the dish)

Optional Ingredients

  • Mustard or ketchup for serving or mixing in
  • Diced jalapenos or hot sauce for spice
  • Additional cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, or smoked gouda
  • Plant-based sausages or smoked tofu for vegetarian version
  • 1 cup canned or frozen corn kernels for added texture and sweetness
  • Gluten-free cornbread mix for gluten-free variation

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your casserole dish thoroughly with butter or use non-stick spray to prevent sticking and help create a golden crust.
  2. Prepare Cornbread Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix with milk, eggs, and melted butter following the package instructions. Stir gently just until ingredients are combined to keep the batter light and fluffy—avoid overmixing as it can lead to a dense texture.
  3. Slice Hot Dogs and Cheese: Cut the hot dogs into bite-sized rounds for even distribution throughout the casserole. Grate or cube the sharp cheddar cheese to ensure it melts evenly and quickly.
  4. Layer Ingredients: Pour half of the cornbread batter into the prepared casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle half of the hot dog slices and half of the cheese over the batter. Pour the remaining cornbread batter on top and then layer the remaining hot dogs and cheese, creating a tasty, layered casserole.
  5. Bake Until Golden: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until it is set and the top turns a beautiful golden brown. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready to serve.

Notes

  • Use quality hot dogs to enhance flavor—choose ones you enjoy eating on their own.
  • Avoid overmixing the cornbread batter to maintain a light, tender texture rather than a dense one.
  • Sharp cheddar cheese brings great flavor; mixing in milder cheeses can add creaminess without overpowering.
  • Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to make slicing easier and let flavors meld.
  • Use a glass or ceramic casserole dish for even baking and a nicely browned crust.
  • For dairy-free versions, substitute butter and cheese with dairy-free alternatives and use almond or oat milk.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: corn dog casserole, comfort food, cheesy casserole, hot dog recipe, cornbread casserole, family dinner, easy weeknight meal, gluten free casserole