If you're looking for an appetizer that's guaranteed to disappear fast, these Mini Chili Cheese Dogs are the answer. Made with soft King's Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls, Little Smokies, homemade chili, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese, they're the perfect handheld snack for game day, cookouts, holiday parties, or an easy family dinner.
The sweet, buttery rolls pair perfectly with savory chili, smoky cocktail sausages, and gooey cheese, creating a bite-sized version of the classic chili cheese dog that's packed with flavor. Best of all, they're incredibly easy to make and come together in under an hour.
Whether you're feeding a crowd or simply looking for a fun twist on a classic favorite, these Mini Chili Cheese Dogs are guaranteed to be a hit.
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Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Perfect for parties and game day
- Kid-friendly and adult-approved
- Perfect handheld appetizer
Ingredients
- King's Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls
- Little Smokies cocktail sausages
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Ground beef
- Yellow onion
- Tomato sauce
- Yellow mustard
- BBQ sauce
- Salt Pepper Garlic seasoning (or Ninjacue All Day Seasoning)
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Step 1: saute the onions
Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and Salt Pepper Garlic Seasoning. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
step 2: Add The beef
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Step 3: Make the chili
Drain any excess grease.
Stir in the chili ingredients
Reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens.
Step 4: Prepare the Rolls
Cut a slit into the top of each King's Hawaiian roll without cutting all the way through.
Place one Little Smokie inside each roll.
Step 5: Assemble
Spoon the homemade chili over each Little Smokie.
Top with shredded cheddar cheese and diced onion.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve immediately while warm.
Pro Tips
Drain excess grease from the beef before adding the sauce ingredients.
Let the chili simmer until thick so it doesn't make the rolls soggy.
Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy version.
Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the best melt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the chili up to three days in advance. Assemble the mini chili dogs just before baking for the freshest results.
Can I use hot dogs instead?
Absolutely. Cut regular hot dogs into thirds for a similar bite-sized appetizer.
How do i store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes or microwave until heated through.
Final Bite.
These Mini Chili Cheese Dogs take everything you love about a classic chili dog and turn it into the perfect handheld appetizer. With fluffy King's Hawaiian rolls, smoky Little Smokies, hearty homemade chili, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh diced onions, every bite is packed with flavor.
They're quick to prepare, easy to customize, and guaranteed to be one of the first dishes to disappear at your next party. Whether you're celebrating game day, hosting friends, or simply craving comfort food, this recipe is one you'll come back to again and again.
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Mini Chili Cheese Dogs
These Mini Chili Cheese Dogs are the ultimate game day appetizer! Made with King's Hawaiian rolls, Little Smokies, homemade chili, cheddar cheese, and diced onions, they're an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that's perfect for parties, tailgates, and family dinners.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12
Ingredients
- 1 (12-count) package King's Hawaiian Original Sweet Rolls
- 12 Little Smokies cocktail sausages
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 pound lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
- ¾ cup diced yellow onion
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
- 2 teaspoons salt pepper garlic seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add onion and seasoning, then cook until softened. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, yellow mustard, and BBQ sauce. Simmer for 8-10 minutes until the chili thickens.
- Cut a slit into the top of each King's Hawaiian Sweet Roll without cutting all the way through.
- Place one Little Smokie into each roll, then spoon the chili over each Little Smokie.
- Top with the shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle with the diced onions.
- Bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the rolls are warmed through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Dinner
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