Fully Loaded Classic Chili Cheese Dog Casserole in the Air Fryer
If you love the flavor-packed indulgence of a ballpark chili cheese dog but want the comfort of a baked casserole, this Fully Loaded Classic Chili Cheese Dog Casserole will hit a home run! Juicy hot dogs are nestled into soft buns, smothered with hearty chili, and topped with a generous layer of melted cheese and toppings—turning a messy handheld treat into a shareable, bubbly, cheesy delight. It’s the perfect game-day dish, weeknight family dinner, or party centerpiece—made quick and easy in your air fryer.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 20–22 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
6 hot dog buns (soft, bakery-style)
6 beef or chicken hot dogs
2 cups prepared chili (homemade or canned)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar–mozzarella blend)
1/4 cup chopped red onion (optional)
1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (fresh or pickled, optional)
2 tbsp mustard (optional drizzle)
2 tbsp ketchup (optional drizzle)
Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat air fryer:
Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 minutes.
Prepare hot dogs:
Place hot dogs in the air fryer basket and cook for 4–5 minutes until heated through and lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
Assemble casserole:
Arrange hot dog buns in an air fryer-safe baking dish that fits inside your basket or tray.
Place one cooked hot dog in each bun.
Spoon chili generously over each hot dog, letting it spill slightly over the sides.
Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
Add red onions and jalapeños if using.
Air fry:
Place the loaded baking dish into the air fryer and cook at 350°F (175°C) for 6–7 minutes, or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Finish & serve:
Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 2 minutes. Drizzle with mustard and ketchup, sprinkle with parsley or green onions, and serve warm.
Tips for Success
Use toasted buns for extra structure so they hold up under the chili and cheese.
If your air fryer is smaller, assemble 3 hot dogs at a time instead of all at once.
Add crispy bacon bits for an extra loaded touch.
Serving Ideas
Serve with fries, onion rings, or a crisp side salad for a balanced meal.
Turn it into a party platter with small slider buns and cocktail sausages.
If you’d like, I can also give you a quick 10-minute homemade chili recipe to make this casserole completely from scratch in the air fryer. That way it’s even richer in flavor.