There’s nothing quite like the classic combination of chili, cheese, and hot dogs. It’s a nostalgic dish that brings comfort and joy to any meal. I decided to take this beloved comfort food and give it a twist by using an air fryer, making it quicker, healthier, and just as delicious. Air Fryer Chili Cheese Dogs are the perfect balance of savory, cheesy goodness with a bit of spice from the chili. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleaser at your next party, these dogs are sure to impress!
The air fryer takes the cooking process to the next level. It crisps the hot dog and warms the chili without the need for frying or messy stovetop cooking. The result is a perfectly cooked chili cheese dog with minimal effort. If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying meal that requires little cleanup but delivers on flavor, look no further than this recipe.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Hot Dogs: The heart of this dish! Choose your favorite hot dogs—beef, pork, or turkey work wonderfully. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a specialty sausage for a twist on the classic dog.
Chili: This adds the rich, hearty flavor and the signature chili sauce that every chili cheese dog needs. You can use canned chili for convenience or make your own for a more homemade touch.
Cheese: For that melty, gooey topping! Shredded cheddar cheese is a favorite, but feel free to experiment with a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.
Hot Dog Buns: Soft, slightly toasted buns are perfect for holding all the deliciousness together. Ensure the buns are large enough to hold the hot dog and chili without falling apart.
Mustard (optional): For an extra layer of flavor, add a touch of mustard to the hot dog before piling on the chili and cheese.
Ingredients List
- 4 Hot Dogs
- 1 cup Chili (canned or homemade)
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
- 4 Soft Hot Dog Buns
- Mustard (optional, to taste)
How to Make Air Fryer Chili Cheese Dogs
Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the hot dogs cook evenly and get a nice crisp texture on the outside.
Step 2: Cook the Hot Dogs
Place the hot dogs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are spaced out evenly. Air fry them at 375°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re lightly browned and crispy. The hot dogs should be sizzling and golden.
Step 3: Heat the Chili
While the hot dogs cook, heat the chili on the stovetop or in the microwave. If you’re using canned chili, simply follow the instructions on the can. If you’re making homemade chili, make sure it’s hot and ready to pour over the dogs.
Step 4: Assemble the Chili Cheese Dogs
Once the hot dogs are cooked, place each one inside a hot dog bun. Spoon a generous amount of warm chili over each dog, then top with shredded cheddar cheese. For an extra touch, drizzle a little mustard on top.
Step 5: Air Fry for a Cheesy Finish
Place the assembled chili cheese dogs back into the air fryer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The air fryer will help melt the cheese without making the buns soggy.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use a non-stick spray: To prevent the hot dogs from sticking to the air fryer basket, lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray.
- Toast the buns: For a slightly crispy texture, toast the buns in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes before adding the hot dogs.
- Make it spicy: Add a bit of hot sauce or a sprinkle of jalapeños to kick up the heat in your chili cheese dogs.
- Customize your chili: Use turkey or chicken chili for a lighter option, or add beans and onions for extra flavor and texture.
- Use different cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheeses like mozzarella, Gouda, or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles.
FAQs
Can I use frozen hot dogs for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to cook them a little longer in the air fryer until they are heated through and crispy on the outside.
Can I make my chili cheese dogs without an air fryer?
Absolutely! You can cook the hot dogs on a grill or stovetop, then assemble the chili cheese dogs and broil them in the oven to melt the cheese.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the chili and hot dogs in advance, then simply heat them up and assemble when ready to serve.
What can I serve with chili cheese dogs?
Pair these chili cheese dogs with a side of crispy fries, a simple salad, or even some onion rings for a complete meal.
Enjoy your delicious, crispy Air Fryer Chili Cheese Dogs! They’re perfect for a quick dinner or as a fun snack at your next gathering.