Cheesy Hot Dog

Cheesy Hot Dog and Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

This Cheesy Hot Dog and Tater Tot Casserole combines the best of comfort foods in one dish! Perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or potlucks, this casserole is easy to prepare and a sure-fire crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 8-10 hot dogs, sliced into bite-sized pieces
• 1 bag of frozen tater tots (approx. 32 oz)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite blend)
• 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for added creaminess)
• 1/4 cup diced onions (optional for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh chopped parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
3. Add the sliced hot dogs and diced onions (if using) to the soup mixture, stirring to coat.
4. Spread half of the tater tots in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Pour the hot dog mixture over the tater tots, spreading evenly.
6. Top with the remaining tater tots, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the tater tots are golden brown.
8. Remove from oven, sprinkle with parsley or chives if desired, and serve warm.

20 Most Popular Questions & Answers:

1. Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?
   • Yes, cream of chicken or cheddar soup works well too.
2. Can I use different types of cheese?
   • Absolutely! Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend for extra flavor.
3. How do I make it spicier?
   • Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the soup mixture.
4. Can I make this ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead, then bake when ready.
5. Can I add vegetables?
   • Sure! Diced bell peppers, corn, or peas are great options.
6. How do I keep leftovers?
   • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
7. How should I reheat leftovers?
   • Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best results or microwave briefly.
8. Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?
   • Yes, but they’ll need to be par-cooked first.
9. Can I use turkey hot dogs?
   • Definitely! Turkey or chicken hot dogs work just as well.
10. Is sour cream necessary?
    • It’s optional but adds creaminess. Greek yogurt is a great substitute.
11. Can I add bacon?
    • Yes! Cooked, crumbled bacon will add even more flavor.
12. Is it gluten-free?
    • Use gluten-free hot dogs, soup, and tater tots to make it gluten-free.
13. Can I use low-fat cheese?
    • Yes, though it may not melt as smoothly.
14. What type of milk should I use?
    • Any milk works, but whole milk adds creaminess.
15. Can I freeze it?
    • You can freeze leftovers, but the tater tots may become soft upon reheating.
16. Can I use plant-based hot dogs?
    • Sure, plant-based hot dogs work if you’re avoiding meat.
17. How can I make it healthier?
    • Try adding veggies, using low-fat cheese, and turkey hot dogs.
18. How many servings does this make?
    • This recipe serves about 6-8 people.
19. Can I double the recipe?
    • Yes! Use a larger baking dish or two 9×13 pans.
20. What can I serve with it?
    • A green salad, steamed veggies, or a simple coleslaw pairs well.

30 Tips to Make It Even More Delightful:

1. Add fresh garlic to the soup mixture for a flavor boost.
2. Sprinkle Italian seasoning for extra depth.
3. Use smoked sausage instead of hot dogs for added smokiness.
4. Top with crispy onions before serving for added crunch.
5. Layer in extra cheese between the hot dogs and tots.
6. Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
7. Sprinkle crushed potato chips on top before baking.
8. Incorporate BBQ sauce into the mixture for a smoky twist.
9. Add diced green chiles for a hint of spice.
10. Mix in canned corn for added sweetness and texture.
11. Top with fried bacon bits for extra savoriness.
12. Add chopped green onions for freshness.
13. Use seasoned tater tots for extra flavor.
14. Add a layer of spinach for a nutritious boost.
15. Top with crushed Ritz crackers for buttery crunch.
16. Use shredded rotisserie chicken for added protein.
17. Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce for umami.
18. Sprinkle paprika on top before baking.
19. Add a few dollops of cream cheese for extra richness.
20. Top with chives or parsley before serving.
21. Add ranch seasoning to the soup mixture for flavor.
22. Mix in diced bell peppers for color and crunch.
23. Add caramelized onions for sweetness.
24. Top with extra cheese halfway through baking.
25. Layer with cooked rice for added texture.
26. Use half-and-half instead of milk for a creamier sauce.
27. Add cooked, crumbled sausage for extra richness.
28. Top with jalapeños for a kick.
29. Layer with sliced tomatoes before baking.
30. Add crushed cornflakes on top for a crispy finish.

30 Secrets to Achieving the Perfect Cheesy Hot Dog and Tater Tot Casserole:

1. Use good-quality cheese for the best flavor and melt.
2. Pre-bake tater tots for a crispier texture.
3. Drain any extra fat from hot dogs to prevent sogginess.
4. Use sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor.
5. Season each layer to enhance taste.
6. Dice onions finely to mix in more evenly.
7. Avoid over-mixing the ingredients for the best texture.
8. Add cream cheese for a richer sauce.
9. Broil for a few minutes at the end for a bubbly top.
10. Bake uncovered so tater tots don’t get soggy.
11. Stir in sour cream for extra creaminess.
12. Use fresh herbs to garnish for color and flavor.
13. Use an even layer of tater tots for balanced texture.
14. Layer ingredients for flavor separation (tots, hot dogs, cheese).
15. Avoid adding extra liquid to keep it thick.
16. Mix in shredded cheese instead of just topping it.
17. Choose hot dogs with low sodium to control saltiness.
18. Top with shredded cheese halfway through baking.
19. Use an oven-safe skillet for even cooking.
20. Sprinkle garlic powder for added aroma.
21. Add a pinch of mustard powder to enhance flavor.
22. Use a combination of cheeses for added depth.
23. Let it cool slightly before serving to set.
24. Bake at a lower temp if using frozen tots.
25. Add fresh ground pepper for a hint of spice.
26. Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.
27. Grate cheese freshly for better melt quality.
28. Incorporate a layer of green onions.
29. Serve with a side of dipping sauce for extra flavor.
30. Use pre-cooked hot dogs to save time.

Enjoy your Cheesy Hot Dog and Tater Tot Casserole—it’s sure to be a hit! 🧀🌭🥔