Keto Chili Dog Casserole - Ultimate Low-Carb Comfort Food

Imagine biting into layers of savory beef, tangy chili, and melted cheese without any guilt! This Keto Chili Dog Casserole transforms your favorite ballpark treat into a low-carb masterpiece that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Here’s a fun fact: hot dogs were first served at baseball games in 1893, and they’ve been America’s favorite stadium food ever since!

What makes this dish truly special is how it captures all those nostalgic flavors while keeping you on track with your keto lifestyle. It’s incredibly simple to prepare—just 15 minutes of prep time and you’re golden.

Your whole family will devour this, even the pickiest eaters who claim they don’t like “diet food.” If you loved my Keto Pizza Casserole, you’re going to flip for this one! Get ready to experience comfort food that actually loves you back.

What is Keto Chili Dog Casserole?

Ever wonder how a classic American favorite got a low-carb makeover that tastes even better than the original? This Keto Chili Dog Casserole is basically everything you love about chili dogs at a summer barbecue, minus the bun and all those pesky carbs. It’s layers of juicy hot dogs, rich homemade chili, gooey melted cheddar, and a surprise egg-based “crust” that holds everything together beautifully.

You know what they say—the way to anyone’s heart is through their stomach, and this dish will win hearts left and right! Trust me, once you make this, you’ll be the hero of dinner time. So what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Keto Chili Dog Casserole

The Ultimate Comfort Food Experience

This casserole delivers pure comfort in every single bite. The combination of smoky hot dogs, hearty beef chili, and melted cheese creates a flavor explosion that satisfies those deep cravings we all get. Unlike traditional chili dogs that leave you feeling heavy and sluggish, this keto version keeps you energized and feeling fantastic. The textures play together beautifully—tender hot dogs, thick meaty chili, and that golden cheesy top that gets slightly crispy in the oven.

Budget-Friendly Family Dinner

Making this at home saves you serious money compared to ordering takeout or dining out. A single casserole feeds 6-8 people for under $20, which breaks down to less than $3 per serving! You probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry. Hot dogs and ground beef are affordable proteins that stretch your dollar while keeping everyone satisfied. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day, giving you meal prep magic without any extra effort.

Customizable Toppings Galore

The best part? You can top this bad boy with everything you love. Think sour cream, diced onions, jalapeños, avocado slices, sugar-free ketchup, and mustard. Each family member can customize their own portion, making dinner time fun and interactive. My kids love sprinkling extra cheese on top, while I go heavy on the jalapeños for that extra kick. If you enjoyed my Keto Taco Casserole, you’ll appreciate how versatile this recipe is too. Ready to make magic happen in your kitchen? Let’s dive into the details!

How to Make Keto Chili Dog Casserole

Quick Overview

This dish comes together like a dream and tastes like pure indulgence. You’re looking at a hearty, satisfying casserole that’s surprisingly simple to create. The creamy egg base forms a perfect foundation, while the chili and cheese layers meld together into something truly spectacular. The best part? The preparation is straightforward—no complicated techniques or fancy equipment needed.

Not personally tested, this recipe was created with AI guidance, and we do our best to ensure accuracy.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Servings: 6-8 people

Key Ingredients for Keto Chili Dog Casserole

For the Base:

8 large eggs
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

For the Chili:

1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend works great)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (no sugar added)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Hot Dogs:

8 all-beef hot dogs (check for zero or very low carbs)
2 tablespoons butter for cooking

Optional Toppings:

Sour cream
Sliced jalapeños
Diced onions
Shredded lettuce
Avocado slices
Sugar-free ketchup
Yellow mustard

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Preheat

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your oven is perfectly hot when your casserole is ready to bake. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish generously with butter or coconut oil spray. Gather all your ingredients and place them within easy reach on your counter. This makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Dice your onion finely and mince your garlic cloves. Having everything ready before you start cooking is a game-changer!

Step 2: Make the Hearty Chili

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until it’s nicely browned, creating those delicious caramelized bits. Don’t drain all the fat—leave about 2 tablespoons in the pan for flavor. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Now add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and all your spices—chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili should thicken up beautifully and develop rich, deep flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Set aside when done.

Step 3: Cook the Hot Dogs

While your chili simmers, slice your hot dogs into bite-sized pieces, about 1/2 inch thick. This helps them distribute evenly throughout the casserole and ensures every bite has that smoky hot dog flavor. In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the hot dog pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re slightly browned and have those gorgeous crispy edges. The butter adds incredible richness. Once done, set them aside on a plate.

Step 4: Create the Egg Base

In a large mixing bowl, crack all 8 eggs. Whisk them vigorously until completely combined and slightly frothy. Pour in the heavy cream and continue whisking until smooth. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well. This egg mixture creates a custardy base that holds everything together like a dream. It’s similar to a quiche base but more savory and protein-packed.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Now comes the fun part—building your masterpiece! Pour the egg mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the egg layer. This creates a cheesy foundation. Next, distribute the cooked hot dog pieces evenly across the cheese layer. Spoon the hearty chili over the hot dogs, spreading it out to cover everything completely. Finally, top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Don’t be shy with the cheese—it creates that irresistible golden top!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Carefully place your assembled casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean with just a bit of moisture. The casserole should jiggle only slightly in the very center. If the top starts browning too quickly, tent it loosely with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes of baking.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time is crucial—it allows the egg base to set properly so your slices hold their shape beautifully. The flavors also meld together during this time. Cut into generous squares and serve hot with all your favorite toppings. Watch everyone’s faces light up with that first bite!

What to Serve Keto Chili Dog Casserole With

This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with complementary sides takes your meal to the next level. A crisp green salad with ranch dressing adds freshness and crunch that balances the rich, meaty casserole. Try baby spinach, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and avocado with a tangy vinaigrette. Cauliflower rice is another excellent choice—it soaks up any extra chili sauce and adds bulk without the carbs.

For a true comfort food experience, serve it alongside some keto coleslaw. The cool, creamy slaw with a hint of tang cuts through the richness beautifully. Roasted broccoli or green beans with garlic butter make fantastic veggie sides too. They add color, nutrients, and a different texture to your plate.

Don’t forget the drinks! Unsweetened iced tea, sparkling water with lime, or even a cold diet soda pairs wonderfully. For a cozy dinner vibe, serve with hot coffee or herbal tea. If you’re entertaining, this casserole makes an amazing potluck dish—just transport it in the baking dish and reheat at your destination.

Top Tips for Perfecting Keto Chili Dog Casserole

Choose Quality Hot Dogs

Not all hot dogs are created equal, especially on keto. Read those labels carefully! Some brands sneak in fillers, sugars, and carbs you don’t need. Look for all-beef hot dogs with zero carbs and minimal additives. Hebrew National, Applegate Farms, and Boar’s Head make excellent keto-friendly options. The better quality your hot dogs, the better your casserole will taste. It’s worth spending a bit extra here.

Don’t Skip the Simmering

When making your chili, resist the urge to rush. That 10-12 minute simmer time is essential for developing deep, complex flavors. The tomatoes break down, the spices bloom, and everything melds into something greater than the sum of its parts. If you skip this step, your chili will taste flat and one-dimensional. Low and slow wins the race!

Let the Eggs Set Properly

The egg base needs time to cook through completely. If you pull the casserole too early, it’ll be runny and won’t slice well. Look for that slight jiggle in the center—like a barely set custard. If it’s still very liquidy, give it another 5 minutes. Every oven is different, so use visual cues more than just the timer.

Prevent Soggy Bottom Syndrome

To avoid a soggy bottom layer, make sure your chili isn’t too watery. If it looks thin after simmering, let it reduce for a few more minutes uncovered. You can also drain excess liquid from the canned tomatoes before adding them. Another trick? Add a tablespoon of almond flour to your chili to thicken it naturally without adding carbs.

Make It Your Own

Feel free to customize! Swap ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer lighter meat. Add diced bell peppers to your chili for extra veggies. Use different cheese varieties—pepper jack adds a spicy kick, while mozzarella makes it extra gooey. Some people love adding cream cheese to the egg mixture for extra richness. Experiment and find your perfect version!

Master the Cheese Layer

For that perfect golden, slightly crispy cheese top, place the casserole under the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Watch it closely—broilers work fast! You want bubbly, golden perfection, not burnt cheese. This step is optional but takes the dish from great to spectacular.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator Storage

This casserole stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it cool completely to room temperature first—this prevents condensation which can make it soggy. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer individual portions to airtight containers. Proper storage keeps the flavors fresh and prevents the egg base from drying out.

Freezer Instructions

Want to meal prep for future weeks? This casserole freezes wonderfully! Cut it into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Label with the date so you remember when you made it. To freeze the entire casserole, wrap the whole dish in plastic wrap, then a layer of foil for extra protection against freezer burn.

Reheating Methods

For best results, reheat in the oven at 325°F for 15-20 minutes if reheating the whole casserole, or 10-12 minutes for individual portions. Cover with foil to prevent the top from drying out. You can also microwave individual portions—heat on 70% power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. The microwave works in a pinch, but the oven gives you that freshly-baked texture. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first for even heating.

Keeping It Fresh

Add a tablespoon of water or broth when reheating to restore moisture. Top with fresh cheese during the last few minutes of reheating for that just-baked look. Reheat only what you’ll eat—repeated heating and cooling can affect texture and food safety. Leftovers actually taste amazing cold too—my husband eats this straight from the fridge sometimes!

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1/8 of recipe)
Calories	485
Total Fat	38g
Saturated Fat	17g
Protein	28g
Total Carbs	8g
Fiber	2g
Net Carbs	6g
Sugar	4g
Sodium	920mg
Cholesterol	265mg

Note: Nutrition information is approximate and will vary based on specific brands and ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours before baking. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes, then bake as directed. You might need to add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time since it’s starting cold. This makes it perfect for entertaining or busy weeknight prep.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat sour cream, cream cheese (soften it first and mix until smooth), or even full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Each substitution will slightly change the texture and flavor, but all work beautifully. Just maintain the same measurements. Avoid using low-fat substitutes as they won’t give you the rich, custardy base you need.

Can I use turkey or chicken hot dogs instead?

Yes, but check the carb counts carefully! Turkey and chicken hot dogs often contain more fillers and added sugars than all-beef varieties. If you find a quality low-carb option, go for it. The flavor will be slightly different—less rich and smoky—but still delicious. You might want to add an extra tablespoon of butter when cooking them to boost the flavor.

How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?

The casserole is done when the edges are golden brown and slightly pulling away from the pan, the cheese on top is bubbly and golden, and the center jiggles only slightly when you gently shake the pan. Insert a toothpick or knife in the center—it should come out mostly clean with just a tiny bit of moisture. The internal temperature should reach 160°F for food safety.

Is this casserole kid-friendly?

Definitely! Most kids love hot dogs and chili, and the casserole format makes it fun to eat. If your kids are sensitive to spice, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and use mild chili powder. You can also let them customize their own portions with toppings—kids love being involved! My nieces and nephews request this at every family gathering.

Can I add vegetables to make it healthier?

Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms work great mixed into the chili. Just sauté them with the onions until tender. You can also add a layer of fresh spinach between the egg base and chili—it wilts during baking and adds nutrients without changing the flavor much. Keep in mind that adding veggies will slightly increase the carb count.

What’s the best way to slice clean portions?

Let the casserole rest for the full 10 minutes after baking—this is crucial! Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts. Run the knife along the edges first to loosen them from the pan. Make your cuts decisively in one motion rather than sawing back and forth. A bench scraper or large spatula helps lift slices out cleanly.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Use two 9×13 inch pans or one extra-large roasting pan. Keep the baking temperature the same, but you’ll need to increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes. Check multiple spots in the casserole to ensure it’s cooked evenly throughout. This recipe is perfect for potlucks, game day parties, or meal prepping for the week.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Watery Chili

One of the biggest mistakes is not reducing your chili enough. Excess liquid will make your casserole soggy and prevent the egg base from setting properly. Always simmer your chili until it’s thick and scoopable, not soupy. If you’re using canned tomatoes, drain about half the liquid before adding them. A thick chili is a happy chili!

Overbaking the Eggs

While you want the casserole fully cooked, overbaking creates a rubbery, dry texture. The eggs will continue cooking slightly after you remove the dish from the oven due to residual heat. Pull it out when there’s still a slight jiggle in the center. That perfect custard-like texture is what you’re after, not a dry, overcooked egg layer.

Forgetting to Grease the Pan

This seems obvious, but it’s easy to forget in the excitement of cooking! An ungreased pan means your beautiful casserole will stick stubbornly to the bottom and sides. Use plenty of butter, coconut oil, or avocado oil spray. Get into all the corners too. Your future self will thank you when serving time comes around.

Skipping the Resting Time

I know it’s tempting to dig in immediately—that cheese is calling your name! But cutting into the casserole before it rests results in a runny mess that won’t hold its shape. Those 10 minutes allow everything to set and firm up. Use this time to prepare your toppings and get your sides ready. Patience pays off!

Not Seasoning Adequately

Ground beef and eggs both need generous seasoning to shine. Taste your chili before assembling the casserole and adjust the seasonings. Don’t forget to season the egg mixture too—that garlic powder and onion powder are essential! Under-seasoned food is disappointing, so be bold with your spices. You can always add less cayenne if you’re sensitive to heat, but don’t skimp on the other seasonings.

Using Cold Ingredients

When you add cold eggs directly to the hot chili layer, you risk the eggs scrambling instead of baking into a smooth base. That’s why we pour the egg mixture in first, then layer everything on top. Make sure all your components are at the right temperature—room temperature eggs whisk more smoothly too.

This Keto Chili Dog Casserole proves that eating low-carb doesn’t mean giving up your favorite comfort foods. It’s hearty, satisfying, budget-friendly, and brings everyone to the table with smiles. The combination of smoky hot dogs, rich chili, and gooey cheese creates pure magic in every bite. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy Tuesday or hosting game day, this casserole delivers every single time.

The best part? It’s genuinely simple to make. No complicated techniques, no hard-to-find ingredients, just straightforward cooking that yields spectacular results. And those leftovers? They might even taste better the next day when all those flavors have had time to mingle.

So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to create something truly special. Your taste buds will thank you, your family will request seconds, and you’ll feel proud knowing you created a delicious, wholesome meal that supports your health goals. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to snap a photo before everyone devours it—this casserole is gone before you know it!