If you are craving a fun, comforting twist on two classic American favorites, you have to try this Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Recipe. It takes the beloved flavors of chili cheese dogs and turns them into a creamy, hearty pasta dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Imagine tender elbow macaroni wrapped in a cheesy chili sauce studded with savory hot dog slices, all topped with crunchy green onions and tortilla chips for that perfect finish. This dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser that makes cozy eating feel exciting and downright delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Recipe, you’ll be using simple, everyday ingredients that come together beautifully to deliver rich flavor, appealing texture, and a vibrant look. Each component plays its part to make every bite satisfying and memorable.
- 8 oz elbow macaroni: Classic pasta that holds the sauce well and is perfect for bite-sized comfort.
- 1 lb hot dogs, sliced into rounds: Adds a smoky, meaty punch that makes the dish feel indulgent and fun.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the hot dogs and veggies, bringing a subtle depth to the pan.
- 1 small onion, diced: Provides a sweet and savory base that softens the sharpness of the garlic.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses fragrant warmth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 can (15 oz) chili with or without beans: Delivers robust chili flavor and rich texture to the sauce.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey perfection, binding everything in creamy cheesy goodness.
- ½ cup milk: Makes the chili cheese sauce silky and smooth.
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional): Adds a hint of sweetness and tang to brighten the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon mustard (optional): Introduces a subtle zing that balances and lifts the flavors.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to bring all the ingredients into harmony.
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish): Adds fresh color and a mild onion bite on top.
- ½ cup crushed tortilla chips (optional): Gives a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy pasta.
How to Make Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This ensures it has just the right amount of bite without getting mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to be coated in that irresistible chili cheese sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Hot Dogs
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the sliced hot dogs. Cook them until they are nicely browned and slightly crispy on the edges, which brings out their smoky flavor and adds great texture to the dish. Once browned, remove the hot dogs from the skillet and set them aside for now.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, toss in the diced onions. Let them cook until they become soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. These aromatics create the flavor foundation that makes the sauce truly sing.
Step 4: Make the Chili Cheese Sauce
Next, stir the canned chili into the skillet along with the shredded cheddar cheese and milk. If you like, mix in ketchup and mustard for an extra layer of tangy sweetness and sharpness. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Finally, season with salt and pepper to suit your taste.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Hot Dogs
Add the cooked pasta and browned hot dog slices back into the skillet with the chili cheese sauce. Carefully stir everything together, making sure each piece of macaroni and hot dog is generously coated in that rich, cheesy chili goodness.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve this wonderful Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Recipe piping hot. Finish by sprinkling chopped green onions over the top for fresh flavor and a burst of color. For an irresistible crunch, add a handful of crushed tortilla chips right before serving. This little topping takes the dish to the next level!
How to Serve Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like chopped green onions provide a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta, while crushed tortilla chips bring textural excitement. You can also try shredded extra cheddar or a drizzle of sour cream to elevate the indulgence.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed veggies to balance its richness. Something light and refreshing, such as a tangy coleslaw or a cucumber salad, complements the hearty flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a twist, serve the Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Recipe in individual small cast-iron skillets or colorful bowls. You might even top with pickled jalapeños or a squeeze of lime for a playful flavor pop. Leftovers can be baked briefly with extra cheese on top for a bubbly, golden crust that’s just as comforting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld wonderfully overnight, making day two as tasty as the first.
Freezing
This pasta freezes well. Just transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of milk to loosen up the sauce if it has thickened in the fridge. Microwave reheating works well too—just cover and heat in short bursts to avoid drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic and holds the sauce nicely, you can switch to penne, rotini, or shells for a different texture. Just cook according to package directions.
Is it better to use chili with beans or without beans?
Both work great. Chili with beans adds extra texture and heartiness, while chili without beans keeps the sauce a bit smoother if you prefer. Choose based on your personal taste.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the hot dogs with plant-based sausages or smoked tofu and use vegetarian chili to keep the same satisfying flavor without any meat.
What can I add to make this dish spicier?
To turn up the heat, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes while cooking the onions or mix in some hot sauce directly into the chili cheese sauce.
How do I avoid the pasta becoming mushy?
Cook the pasta just until al dente and drain well. When combining with the sauce, do it quickly and avoid overcooking in the sauce to keep the pasta perfectly firm and enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Recipe is a wonderful celebration of comfort food that’s easy to make, utterly delicious, and guaranteed to bring smiles to the table. Once you try it, you’ll see how simple ingredients come to life in a fun and flavorful way. So go ahead and give it a whirl—you might just find your new favorite weeknight meal!
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Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta is a hearty, comforting dish combining tender elbow macaroni with savory slices of browned hot dogs, enveloped in a creamy chili cheese sauce. This quick and easy skillet meal is topped with fresh green onions and crunchy tortilla chips for added texture and flavor, perfect for a satisfying family dinner in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Pasta & Protein
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
- 1 lb hot dogs, sliced into rounds
Sauce & Flavorings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) chili with or without beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
- ½ cup crushed tortilla chips (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to prepare the other components.
- Cook Hot Dogs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced hot dogs and cook until browned and slightly crisp, about 5 minutes. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Onions & Garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make Chili Cheese Sauce: Stir in the can of chili, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. Optionally add ketchup and mustard for extra flavor. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta & Hot Dogs: Return the browned hot dog slices to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and gently stir to combine all ingredients, ensuring the pasta and hot dogs are evenly coated with the chili cheese sauce.
- Serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with chopped green onions and topped with crushed tortilla chips if desired for a crunchy finish.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chili cheese sauce.
- Use your favorite type of pasta if elbow macaroni is not available; shells or rotini work well too.
- Opt for a low-fat cheese or milk to reduce fat content if preferred.
- For a beanless chili option, choose chili without beans to keep the texture smooth.
- The crushed tortilla chips topping adds a nice crunch but can be omitted for a softer dish.
