There is something incredibly comforting and downright fun about the Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Recipe. Imagine the nostalgic flavors of a classic chili cheese dog merged effortlessly into a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that’s bursting with hearty bites of hot dog rounds, gooey cheddar, and a rich, savory chili sauce. This dish is a perfect go-to for when you want something easy, satisfying, and loaded with all the familiar tastes that remind you of carefree summer cookouts, but in a cozy, bowl-ready form. I can’t wait to share all the details so you can bring this playful, delicious dish to your table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the soft pasta to the crispy browned hot dogs and melty cheese, every component is straightforward but essential.
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta: The classic pasta shape holds the sauce beautifully in every bite.
- 1 lb hot dogs, sliced into rounds: Adds that familiar, savory charm with a bit of smoky flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For browning the hot dogs and sautéing the veggies, adding a smooth richness.
- 1 small onion, diced: Provides sweetness and depth when softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A punch of aromatic warmth that complements every flavor.
- 1 can (15 oz) chili with or without beans: The heart of the dish, bringing a robust, meaty sauce.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into creamy, cheesy goodness that hugs every bite.
- ½ cup milk: Creates a smooth, luscious sauce base.
- 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional): Adds a subtle sweetness and tang for extra flavor depth.
- 1 teaspoon mustard (optional): Brings a gentle zing balancing the rich cheese and chili.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish): A fresh and crisp topping that brightens the dish.
- ½ cup crushed tortilla chips (optional): Provides a delightful crunch contrast to the creamy pasta.
How to Make Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cooking the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Once perfectly tender, drain the pasta and set it aside to keep warm while you prepare the rest of the dish. This step is the base for holding all those incredible flavors we’re about to build.
Step 2: Brown the Hot Dogs
In a spacious skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced hot dogs and cook them until they’re deliciously browned, about 5 minutes. This process caramelizes their edges, intensifying the flavor and giving each bite a satisfying texture. When done, remove them from the skillet and set aside—they’ll be reunited with the pasta soon!
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Using the same skillet that has all those tasty browned bits, toss in the diced onion and sauté until it’s softened and slightly translucent, roughly 3 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. This builds the essential flavor foundation for your chili cheese sauce.
Step 4: Make the Chili Cheese Sauce
Now, pour in the can of chili, and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk. If you’re feeling adventurous, add the optional ketchup and mustard for that extra spark of flavor. Stir everything together and cook over medium heat until the cheddar melts smoothly into a creamy sauce and the mixture is heated through. Season generously with salt and pepper to highlight all those flavors.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Hot Dogs
Return the browned hot dog rounds to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Stir everything carefully to coat the pasta and hot dogs evenly with the luscious chili cheese sauce. Make sure every bite is loaded with that signature blend of gooey cheese, savory chili, and smoky hot dog goodness.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Transfer spoonfuls of this comforting, hearty pasta onto plates or bowls. Top with chopped green onions for a bright, fresh bite and sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top if you want to add an irresistible crunch that perfectly balances the creamy texture.
How to Serve Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
The garnishes for this dish are simple but elevate the whole experience. Fresh green onions provide a crisp, mild onion kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. Crushed tortilla chips add texture and a salty crunch, making every bite exciting. Feel free to experiment with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a twist!
Side Dishes
This pasta is quite filling on its own but pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides like a crisp garden salad or some steamed veggies to balance the richness. Pickles or a tangy coleslaw can also add a delicious contrast and amp up the fun, casual vibe of this meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve this Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Recipe in individual ramekins topped with colorful chopped green onions and crunchy tortilla chips. You could also turn it into a pasta bake by spreading the mixture in a casserole dish, topping with extra cheddar, and broiling until bubbly and golden for a different spin.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it an even tastier second-day meal. Just make sure it’s fully cooled before storing to keep everything fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, although the texture of the hot dogs may change slightly. Cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of milk if the pasta seems dry, and heat until warmed through and the sauce is creamy again. Microwave works too; just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage instead of hot dogs?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap hot dogs for any cooked sausage you love, like kielbasa, bratwurst, or even vegan sausages to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Is this dish spicy?
This Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Recipe is generally mild. If you want a little heat, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce when making the chili cheese sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, just use your favorite dairy-free cheese and milk alternatives. The flavors will still be comforting and rich, making it friendly for those with dairy sensitivities.
What’s the best pasta to use?
Elbow macaroni is classic and fun, but you can use any small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne—anything that can hold onto the sauce and mix well with the hot dogs.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the sauce and cook the pasta ahead. Keep them separate until ready to combine and serve for the freshest texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a comforting, playful twist on two all-time favorites—chili cheese dogs and pasta—this Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta Recipe is going to be your new go-to. It’s quick, satisfying, and effortlessly brings together bold flavors and textures that make every bite pure joy. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself planning it for weeknight dinners and beyond. Give it a whirl and enjoy every cheesy, saucy bite!
Print
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
This Loaded Chili Cheese Dog Pasta is a hearty, comforting dish combining tender elbow macaroni, savory hot dogs, and a rich chili cheese sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it boasts layers of flavor with sautéed onions, garlic, and optional ketchup and mustard for an extra tang. Topped with green onions and crunchy tortilla chips, this pasta dish delivers a playful twist on classic chili dogs.
Ingredients
Pasta and Meat
- 8 oz elbow macaroni or your favorite pasta
- 1 lb hot dogs, sliced into rounds
Sauté and Sauce
- 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
Garnish and Toppings
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
- ½ cup crushed tortilla chips (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Cook Hot Dogs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced hot dogs and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are nicely browned. Remove the hot dogs from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Onions & Garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Make Chili Cheese Sauce: Stir in the canned chili, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, ketchup, and mustard if using. Cook while stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta & Hot Dogs: Return the browned hot dogs to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Stir everything together gently to coat the pasta and hot dogs evenly with the chili cheese sauce.
- Serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sprinkled with crushed tortilla chips for an added crunchy texture and flavor contrast.
Notes
- Use your preferred type of pasta; elbow macaroni works best for a classic texture.
- For a spicier version, use chili with beans that has some heat or add a pinch of chili powder.
- Ketchup and mustard are optional but add a nice tang reminiscent of a classic chili dog.
- If you want a creamier sauce, add a bit more milk gradually while cooking.
- Crushed tortilla chips add a delightful crunch but can be omitted for a softer texture.
