Chili Cheese Dog Bake Dinner – A Comforting, Flavorful Dish for All
Chili Cheese Dog Bake is a hearty and delicious dish that combines two classic comfort foods: chili and hot dogs. This recipe brings together seasoned chili, melty cheese, and savory hot dogs, all baked into a one-dish wonder that’s perfect for feeding the whole family. Ideal for busy weeknights, special occasions, or any time you crave a filling and satisfying meal, this chili cheese dog bake is sure to become a go-to in your household.
For those who are following a Weight Watchers plan, this version of the chili cheese dog bake has been adjusted to fit into a healthier lifestyle without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a dish to prep ahead, this recipe can be customized to suit your preferences. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious and lighter version of the chili cheese dog bake, complete with nutrition information and a breakdown of its Weight Watchers points.
Why You’ll Love This Chili Cheese Dog Bake
- Comfort Food, Lightened Up: Chili cheese dogs are a classic American comfort food, and this bake version takes everything you love about the dish and makes it a bit lighter. With a few substitutions and a little creativity, you can still enjoy the rich, savory flavors of chili, cheese, and hot dogs without the heavy calories.
- Quick and Easy to Prepare: This recipe is simple to prepare and can be made in under an hour, which is ideal for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve to your family in no time.
- One-Dish Wonder: Who doesn’t love a one-dish meal? This chili cheese dog bake is cooked in a single baking dish, meaning you’ll have fewer pots and pans to clean up afterward. It’s perfect for meal prepping, and the leftovers make for a tasty lunch the next day.
- Versatile and Customizable: This recipe is easily customizable. You can swap out the hot dogs for turkey dogs or plant-based alternatives for a healthier or vegan version. You can also use reduced-fat cheese or add extra vegetables to the chili for additional nutrients.
- Perfect for Family Dinners: This dish is hearty enough to satisfy both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family dinners. With the bold flavors of chili and cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients for Weight Watchers Chili Cheese Dog Bake:
For this healthier, Weight Watchers-friendly version, we’ll be making some swaps to reduce the points while still maintaining the delicious flavors of the original dish.
For the Chili:
- 1 pound lean ground turkey (or plant-based ground meat for a vegan option)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) no-salt-added kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) no-salt-added diced tomatoes
- 1 packet chili seasoning mix (or homemade chili seasoning with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika)
- 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or spray oil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Hot Dogs:
- 8 light hot dogs (or turkey dogs for a leaner option, or plant-based dogs for a vegan choice)
- 1 tablespoon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Bake:
- 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese (or plant-based cheese for a dairy-free version)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (reduced-fat)
- 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)
- Chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Optional Sides (for Serving):
- 1 ½ cups cooked brown rice or quinoa (optional)
- Steamed vegetables (for additional fiber and nutrients)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chili Cheese Dog Bake:
1. Prepare the Chili Base:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the lean ground turkey (or plant-based ground meat) to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the Chili Seasonings and Tomatoes:
Once the turkey is cooked through, stir in the chili seasoning mix (or your homemade chili seasoning) and mix well. Then, add the can of diced tomatoes and kidney beans. Pour in 1 cup of low-sodium vegetable broth, stir everything together, and bring to a simmer. Allow the chili to cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
3. Cook the Hot Dogs:
While the chili is simmering, cook the light hot dogs according to the package instructions. If you’re grilling, place them on the grill for 5-7 minutes until browned. If using the stovetop, heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and cook the hot dogs for 5-6 minutes until lightly charred on all sides. Slice the cooked hot dogs into bite-sized pieces for easy serving.
4. Assemble the Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large baking dish (about 9×13 inches), spread a layer of the prepared chili mixture on the bottom. Then, arrange the sliced hot dogs on top of the chili mixture. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the hot dogs and chili.
5. Add the Breadcrumbs:
For an extra crunch, sprinkle whole wheat breadcrumbs evenly across the top of the cheese. This will give the bake a deliciously crispy topping when baked.
6. Bake the Dish:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the chili cheese dog bake is out of the oven, garnish with chopped green onions and fresh cilantro (if desired). Serve the bake on its own or alongside steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
Weight Watchers Points Breakdown:
This recipe has been designed to be a more health-conscious, Weight Watchers-friendly option without sacrificing flavor. Here’s a breakdown of the points:
- Lean Ground Turkey (1 lb): 6 points
- Light Hot Dogs (8): 12 points (1.5 points per dog)
- Shredded Reduced-Fat Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): 4 points
- Shredded Reduced-Fat Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup): 3 points
- Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): 2 points
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp): 2 points
Total Points per Serving: Approx. 5-6 points per serving (based on a serving size of 6 servings). This will vary based on your portion size and any additional toppings or sides you choose.
Additional Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 20g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Cholesterol: 35mg
- Weight Watchers Points: 5 points per serving (without sides)
Final Thoughts on the Chili Cheese Dog Bake
This Chili Cheese Dog Bake is a wonderful example of how you can lighten up your favorite comfort foods while still enjoying all the flavors you love. The combination of lean protein, rich chili, and melty cheese is sure to please everyone at the table. With a few simple modifications, it fits perfectly into a Weight Watchers lifestyle, making it easier than ever to indulge in delicious meals without worrying about your points.
Plus, the versatility of the recipe means you can adjust it to meet your dietary needs and preferences—whether you’re looking for a gluten-free option, adding extra veggies, or opting for vegan alternatives. This Chili Cheese Dog Bake makes meal time fun, easy, and satisfying.
Enjoy this delicious dish on its own, or pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or preparing a family dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit!