Chili Cheese Casserole (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 1/2 cups chili
02 - 8 hot dogs, sliced lengthwise and then quartered
03 - 8 hot dog buns, cut into 1-inch pieces and toasted

→ Cheese Sauce

04 - 2 tablespoons butter
05 - 1/8 cup all-purpose flour
06 - 1 1/4 cups milk
07 - 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
08 - 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
09 - 1 1/4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

# Instructions:

01 - Set the oven to broil. Spread the hot dog bun pieces on a baking sheet and broil for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside.
02 - In a small pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and let it cook for 1-2 minutes.
03 - Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously until combined.
04 - Whisk in the Dijon mustard and hot sauce. Let the mixture simmer until it slightly thickens.
05 - Remove from heat and whisk in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Set aside.
06 - In a large bowl, combine the toasted bun pieces with the chili, stirring until evenly coated.
07 - Grease an 11x7-inch baking dish. Spread half of the chili-bun mixture on the bottom, followed by all the sliced hot dogs, then top with the remaining chili-bun mixture.
08 - Pour the prepared cheese sauce evenly over the top of the casserole.
09 - Bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
10 - Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

# Notes:

01 - For extra crunch, top with crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions before baking.
02 - Use any type of chili you prefer—homemade or store-bought both work well.
03 - You can substitute hot dog buns with thick slices of bread if needed.