3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chili Cheese Dogs
This 3-ingredient slow cooker chili cheese dog recipe is the kind of weeknight shortcut that delivers big comfort with minimal effort. Inspired by classic Midwestern ballpark chili dogs, it keeps things simple with hot dogs, canned chili, and melty cheese.
Just layer everything into the slow cooker, let it do the work, and a few hours later you’ve got a warm, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for busy nights.
Servings
8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 raw beef hot dogs
- 2 cans (about 15 ounces each) canned chili (with or without beans)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or colby-jack), divided
Directions
- Lightly coat a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
- Arrange the hot dogs in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Pour the canned chili evenly over the hot dogs, making sure they are mostly covered.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the chili. Reserve the remaining cheese.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 3 to 4 hours or HIGH for 1½ to 2 hours, until hot dogs are heated through (165°F) and chili is bubbling.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, cover, and cook on HIGH for 5 to 10 minutes until melted.
- Turn to WARM for serving. Place hot dogs in buns and spoon chili cheese over the top.
Serving Suggestions
Serve in warm hot dog buns or split-top rolls. Add toppings like chopped onions or jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Potato chips
- Coleslaw
- Green salad
- Baked beans or roasted potatoes
- Dill pickles
Variations & Tips
- Use spicy chili or add diced green chiles or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack for a spicy twist.
- Use mild chili and cheese for a kid-friendly version.
- Cut hot dogs into pieces for a scoopable version over rice or fries.
- Serve as a party dip with tortilla chips or toasted bread.
Food Safety Notes
- Start with chilled, unopened ingredients.
- Cook until hot dogs reach at least 165°F internally.
- Keep lid on during cooking for proper heat.
- Do not keep on WARM longer than 2 hours.
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and reheat thoroughly.