Keto Chili Dog Casserole is a delicious twist on a classic dish that satisfies your cravings without ruining your diet. With a flavorful combination of spices, hearty meat, and melty cheese, this casserole brings comfort food to your table while keeping it low in carbs. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet delicious enough to serve at gatherings. If you’re in search for an easy-to-make, hearty meal that aligns with your keto lifestyle, this casserole is the perfect choice.
Why We Love This Keto Chili Dog Casserole Recipe
This Keto Chili Dog Casserole recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it brings together familiar flavors of classic chili dogs in a hearty, casserole format. It’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults. Secondly, it is incredibly simple to make. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this dish up in no time. Additionally, its low-carb nature makes it an excellent option for your ketogenic diet. The combination of savory ground chuck, zesty tomatoes, and gooey cheese creates a comforting experience that you won’t want to miss. Every bite feels indulgent, while still being mindful of your health goals.
Ingredients about Keto Chili Dog Casserole
- 1 pound ground chuck
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can petite diced tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup water
- 8 hot dogs
- 8 low carb tortillas or wraps
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
How to Make Keto Chili Dog Casserole Directions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13 inch casserole dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray to ensure easy cleanup. In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked ground chuck, petite diced tomatoes, water, and all the spices. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes. The purpose of this step is to thicken the sauce and allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
As the sauce simmers, you can begin preparing the hot dogs. Take each hot dog and wrap it in a low carb tortilla, sealing the seam down to hold everything together. Once you have all the hot dogs wrapped, grab your prepared casserole dish. Spoon a layer of the thickened chili sauce into the bottom of the dish. This layer will serve as a flavorful base for the hot dogs.
After layering the sauce, place each tortilla-wrapped hot dog seam-side down into the dish. This strategic positioning will ensure that they stay intact as they bake. Once all the hot dogs are arranged, pour any remaining chili sauce over the top, ensuring the hot dogs are well-covered in that savory goodness.
The final touch is to sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the entire casserole. This will melt beautifully during baking, creating a delectable cheesy top that you won’t be able to resist. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden, and the casserole appears set. Once baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This break will allow the flavors to settle and make it easier to serve.
How to Serve Keto Chili Dog Casserole
Serving your Keto Chili Dog Casserole can be as delightful as preparing it. Once cooled for a few minutes, cut into squares or rectangles to serve. You can enjoy it as is, or you can elevate it with your favorite toppings. Consider adding some additional shredded cheese, diced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess. Fresh avocado slices or jalapeño peppers can also bring a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
If you’re entertaining guests, you can serve this dish directly from the casserole dish, garnishing it with toppings in a fun and inviting manner. This encourages everyone to customize their servings according to their taste. Pair it with a light salad for a complete meal that’s satisfying yet remains in line with your dietary choices. Don’t forget to keep it fun – this dish is perfect for casual get-togethers and game nights!
Expert Tips: Keto Chili Dog Casserole
To ensure your Keto Chili Dog Casserole turns out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips to consider. First, feel free to experiment with spices according to your taste preferences. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the chili sauce. Alternatively, if you prefer milder flavors, you can reduce the chili powder.
Make sure to use high-quality low carb tortillas or wraps that stay together well during baking. Some brands work better than others, so testing a few may be beneficial to find your favorite. When preparing the ground chuck, aim for a leaner cut to reduce excess grease, ensuring a cleaner flavor.
Lastly, always monitor the baking time closely. Ovens can vary, and you want to achieve the perfect bubbly, golden cheese without overbaking. Should you find your casserole browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the remaining baking time.
How to Store Keto Chili Dog Casserole
If you find yourself with leftover Keto Chili Dog Casserole, storing it properly is key to maintaining its flavor and texture. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Seal it tightly to prevent air from entering. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you’d like to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Simply place the cooled casserole in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When stored in the freezer, it can last for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake it until heated through. This makes for a convenient meal option on busy days!
Variation of Keto Chili Dog Casserole
There are many fun ways to add variety to your Keto Chili Dog Casserole. For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the ground chuck with a plant-based meat alternative. There are several products available that mimic the taste and texture of meat, allowing you to keep the dish satisfying without using animal protein.
If you love vegetables, consider adding chopped bell peppers, olives, or even zucchini into the chili sauce during cooking. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds delightful texture and flavor. You could also experiment with different types of cheeses; pepper jack adds a nice kick, while mozzarella provides melty, gooey goodness.
For those who enjoy international flavors, you can lean into a Tex-Mex theme by incorporating flavors like taco seasoning or even adding salsa to the top before baking. Having fun with the base recipe allows you to try new combinations while staying in line with your keto diet!
FAQ
What is Keto Chili Dog Casserole?
Keto Chili Dog Casserole is a delicious, low-carb dish that combines hot dogs wrapped in low carb tortillas with a flavorful chili sauce and melted cheese, perfect for satisfying your cravings.
How many carbs are in Keto Chili Dog Casserole?
The carb count can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, especially the type of tortillas. However, it is generally much lower than traditional chili dog recipes.
Can I make Keto Chili Dog Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This is a great time-saving tip for busy weeknights.
What toppings can I add to my Keto Chili Dog Casserole?
You can personalize your casserole with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, avocado, or even jalapeños—all of which enhance the flavors and visual appeal.
Is Keto Chili Dog Casserole suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is excellent for meal prep! You can easily divide it into portions, making it a convenient, ready-to-eat meal throughout the week.
How do I reheat leftovers of Keto Chili Dog Casserole?
To reheat leftovers, bake them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or you can microwave individual portions until hot. Enjoy it as a quick, satisfying meal!
Feel free to modify any part to better fit your style or needs!
Keto Chili Dog Casserole
Ingredients
For the Chili Sauce
- 1 pound ground chuck Use a leaner cut to reduce excess grease.
- 1 14.5 ounce can petite diced tomatoes No need to drain.
- 2 teaspoons chili powder Adjust for heat preference.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup water
For Assembly
- 8 pieces hot dogs
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Alternatively, try pepper jack or mozzarella for variation.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9x13 inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked ground chuck, petite diced tomatoes, water, and all spices. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Assembling
- Wrap each hot dog in a low carb tortilla, sealing the seam down.
- Spoon a layer of the thickened chili sauce into the bottom of the casserole dish.
- Place each tortilla-wrapped hot dog seam-side down into the dish.
- Pour any remaining chili sauce over the top, covering the hot dogs.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30-35 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
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