Introduction
If you’re looking for an easy, cheesy, crowd-pleasing meal, these Crockpot Chili Cheese Dogs are a must-try! Juicy hot dogs are slow-cooked in hearty chili and finished with a generous layer of melted cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese.
With only a handful of ingredients and just 5 minutes of prep, this recipe is perfect for game days, family gatherings, parties, or an easy weeknight dinner. Simply layer everything in the crockpot, let it cook, and serve the hot dogs loaded with chili and gooey cheese.
Ingredients
For the Chili Cheese Dogs
- Hot Dogs: 1 package (8–10 count) hot dogs or wieners
- Chili: 2 cans (15 oz each) chili, with or without beans
- Cheese: 2 cups shredded Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- Hot Dog Buns: 8–10 buns
Optional Toppings
- Diced yellow onion
- Chopped fresh chives or green onions
- Pickled jalapeño slices
- Mustard
- Sour cream
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crockpot
Use a 5–6-quart crockpot. Pour one can of chili into the bottom and spread it evenly across the base.
2. Add the Hot Dogs
Arrange the hot dogs side-by-side over the chili. They can be placed in a single layer or slightly overlapped if necessary.
3. Add More Chili
Pour the second can of chili over the hot dogs. Spread it evenly so the hot dogs are well covered.
4. Slow Cook
Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook:
- LOW: 3–4 hours
- HIGH: 1½–2 hours
The hot dogs should be heated through and the chili should be hot and flavorful.
5. Add the Cheese
During the last 10–15 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the chili.
Cover again and allow the cheese to melt completely until it’s warm, gooey, and delicious.
6. Assemble and Serve
Using tongs, carefully place each hot dog into a warm bun. Spoon plenty of chili and melted cheese over the top.
Finish with your favorite toppings, such as diced onions, jalapeños, mustard, or green onions.
Serve immediately while hot and cheesy!
Recipe Tips
- Don’t overcrowd the crockpot: Arrange the hot dogs as evenly as possible so they heat consistently.
- Use freshly shredded cheese: It generally melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
- Customize the chili: Use chili with beans for extra texture or bean-free chili for a classic chili-dog style.
- Add some heat: Pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce are perfect for spicy-food lovers.
- Keep them warm: If serving at a party, use the crockpot’s warm setting after cooking.
Topping Ideas
Make your chili dogs your own with different toppings:
- 🌶️ Jalapeños + hot sauce
- 🧅 Diced onions + mustard
- 🧀 Extra shredded cheese
- 🥒 Pickled jalapeños
- 🌱 Green onions or chives
- 🥛 A small spoonful of sour cream
What to Serve With Chili Cheese Dogs
These crockpot chili dogs are great on their own, but they pair especially well with:
- French fries
- Potato wedges
- Coleslaw
- Potato salad
- Corn on the cob
- Tortilla chips
- A simple green salad
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 3–4 hours on LOW or 1½–2 hours on HIGH
Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes–4 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 8–10 chili dogs
Conclusion
These Crockpot Chili Cheese Dogs are the ultimate easy comfort food. With juicy hot dogs, hearty chili, and plenty of gooey melted cheese, every bite is packed with classic flavor.
They’re especially perfect for game days, parties, potlucks, and casual family dinners because you can prepare everything in one crockpot and let it stay warm until you’re ready to serve.
Just layer, cook, add cheese, and load up your buns. It’s that easy! 🌭🧀🔥