Chili Dog Sliders are the ultimate crowd-pleasing snack that combines all the best flavors of a classic chili dog in a fun, bite-sized format. Perfect for game days, parties, or casual get-togethers, these sliders pack juicy mini hot dogs, savory chili, and melty cheese into soft slider buns for a delicious handheld treat. Easy to make and irresistibly tasty, they’re sure to be the star of any snack table.
Why You’ll Love This Chili Dog Sliders
Perfect party food: Bite-sized and easy to eat, ideal for sharing with friends and family.
Classic chili dog flavor: All the hearty, savory goodness of chili dogs without the mess.
Quick and simple: Ready in under 35 minutes with straightforward ingredients and steps.
Melty cheese goodness: Adds that gooey, comforting element everyone loves.
Soft slider buns: Hold everything together while adding a tender, fluffy texture.
Customizable toppings: Add onions, jalapeños, or mustard to suit your taste.
Kid and adult friendly: Appeals to all ages, making it perfect for any occasion.
Bring these Chili Dog Sliders to your next gathering and watch them disappear—they’re that delicious and easy!
Ingredients for Chili Dog Sliders
Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these chili dog sliders are a snack sensation. Here’s what you’ll need:
Slider buns: Soft and fluffy, these are the perfect vessel for your chili and hot dog goodness. Look for fresh ones at your local bakery or grocery store.
Hot dogs: The star of the show! Choose your favorite brand, whether classic beef, turkey, or even veggie options for a healthier twist.
Chili: A can of your preferred chili, with or without beans, adds rich flavor. You can also make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
Shredded cheddar cheese: This melty topping brings everything together. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Diced onions: These add a nice crunch and sweetness. You can use yellow, white, or even green onions for a milder flavor.
Sliced jalapeños: Optional, but they bring a delightful heat. If you’re not a fan of spice, skip them or use pickled jalapeños for a milder taste.
Yellow mustard: A classic condiment that enhances the flavor profile. You can swap it for Dijon or spicy mustard if you prefer.
Ketchup: Adds a touch of sweetness and balances the savory elements. It’s a must-have for many chili dog lovers!
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the onions, it adds flavor and helps them cook evenly.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste for the best flavor.
For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Chili Dog Sliders
Creating Chili Dog Sliders is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious snack ready in no time. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial because it ensures even cooking. A hot oven helps the cheese melt perfectly and the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Toss in the diced onions and sauté them until they turn translucent, about 3-4 minutes. You want them soft but not browned. This brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your sliders.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onions, cut hot dogs, chili, mustard, and ketchup. Stir everything together until well coated. This mixture is the heart of your Chili Dog Sliders, so make sure it’s evenly blended for maximum flavor in every bite!
Step 4: Prepare the Slider Buns
Grab a baking dish and arrange the slider buns cut side up. This setup allows the chili dog mixture to soak into the buns, making them extra tasty. It’s like giving them a warm hug before they hit the oven!
Step 5: Assemble the Sliders
Spoon the chili dog mixture generously over each bun. Don’t be shy! Then, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. If you’re feeling adventurous, add sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. This is where the magic happens!
Step 6: Bake the Sliders
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven for 15 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the cheese to be melted and bubbly, creating that irresistible gooeyness.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the sliders cool for a few minutes. This step is important! It allows the flavors to settle and makes them easier to handle. Trust me, the wait will be worth it when you take that first bite!
Tips for Success
Use fresh slider buns for the best texture and flavor.
Don’t skip the sautéing step; it enhances the onions’ sweetness.
Feel free to customize the chili with your favorite spices or add-ins.
For a crispy top, broil the sliders for a minute after baking.
Serve with extra toppings like sour cream or avocado for added flair.
Equipment Needed
Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish works great, but any oven-safe dish will do.
Skillet: A non-stick skillet is ideal for sautéing onions, but any skillet will suffice.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients; a sturdy one is best.
Aluminum foil: Essential for covering the dish while baking.
Spatula: Useful for mixing and serving the sliders.
Variations
Spicy Chili Dog Sliders: Add diced green chilies or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the chili mixture for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute traditional hot dogs with plant-based or veggie hot dogs for a delicious meat-free version.
Cheesy Jalapeño Sliders: Mix in some diced jalapeños with the chili for a spicy surprise, and use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
BBQ Chili Dog Sliders: Swap out the mustard and ketchup for your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky twist.
Gluten-Free Sliders: Use gluten-free slider buns to accommodate dietary restrictions while still enjoying this tasty treat.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Sides: Pair your Chili Dog Sliders with crispy potato chips or a fresh coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.
Refreshing Drinks: Serve with ice-cold lemonade or a light beer to complement the flavors.
Presentation: Arrange sliders on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
FAQs about Chili Dog Sliders
Can I make Chili Dog Sliders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chili dog mixture and assemble the sliders a few hours in advance. Just cover them and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, pop them in the oven to heat through. This makes them a fantastic option for parties!
What type of chili should I use?
You can use any canned chili you like, whether it’s with or without beans. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own chili from scratch for a personal touch. Just remember, the flavor of the chili will greatly influence your Chili Dog Sliders!
Can I freeze Chili Dog Sliders?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled sliders before baking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. It’s a great way to have a quick snack on hand!
How can I make these sliders spicier?
If you love heat, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the chili mixture. You can also use spicy mustard or pepper jack cheese for an extra kick. Customize it to your taste!
What can I serve with Chili Dog Sliders?
These sliders pair wonderfully with classic sides like potato chips, coleslaw, or even a fresh garden salad. For drinks, consider serving ice-cold lemonade or a light beer to complement the flavors. Enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Chili Dog Sliders are more than just a snack; they’re a celebration of flavors and memories. Each bite transports you back to carefree days filled with laughter and good company. The ease of preparation means you can focus on what truly matters—enjoying time with friends and family. Whether it’s game day or a casual get-together, these sliders are sure to impress. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and dive into this delicious recipe. Trust me, once you serve these, they’ll become a staple in your home, bringing joy to every occasion!
Chili Dog Sliders are a delicious and easy-to-make snack perfect for gatherings, combining the classic flavors of chili and hot dogs in a fun slider format.
Ingredients
Scale
1 package (12 count) slider buns
1 pound hot dogs, cut into thirds
1 can (15 ounces) chili (with or without beans, your choice)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced onions
1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 tablespoon ketchup
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the diced onions until they are translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onions, cut hot dogs, chili, mustard, and ketchup. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
Place the slider buns in a baking dish, cut side up. Spoon the chili dog mixture evenly over the buns.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chili dog mixture.
If using, add sliced jalapeños on top of the cheese.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add diced green chilies or a few dashes of hot sauce to the chili mixture.
Substitute turkey or veggie hot dogs for a healthier option or to accommodate dietary preferences.
