Cheesy Corndog Casserole Recipe

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 3/4 cup chopped green onion
• 8 hot dogs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons mustard
• 2 teaspoons hot sauce
• 2 (8 ounce) packages corn bread mix, such as Jiffy
• 8 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Grease a 3-quart baking dish.

Heat the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until melted. Add the chopped celery and green onions, and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl.

In the same skillet, add the hot dog pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Transfer the browned hot dogs to the mixing bowl with the vegetables.

To the mixing bowl, add the milk, eggs, mustard, hot sauce, cornbread mix, and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded Cheddar cheese. Stir until well combined (its fine if some lumps remain).

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted near the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. Allow the dish to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1 serving (out of 8 servings)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	397
Total Fat	31g	40%
Saturated Fat	14g	72%
Cholesterol	120mg	40%
Sodium	799mg	35%
Total Carbohydrate	13g	5%
Dietary Fiber	1g	4%
Total Sugars	6g
Protein	17g	33%
Vitamin C	3mg	4%
Calcium	278mg	21%
Iron	2mg	9%
Potassium	316mg	7%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Origins of Cheesy Corndog Casserole

Cheesy Corndog Casserole is a playful evolution of the classic American corn dog, a staple at state fairs and local festivals since the 1920s. While the corn dog itself is a simple hot dog coated in cornmeal batter and deep-fried, the casserole version emerged in home kitchens as a convenient, family-friendly alternative. Instead of frying each corndog individually, the casserole combines chopped hot dogs, cornbread mix, and cheese into a single baked dish. This adaptation made it ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and casual gatherings, reflecting Americans' fondness for comfort food that is both hearty and easy to prepare.

Regional Variations

The dish is most popular in the Midwest and Southern United States, where cornbread and sausage are traditional staples. In the South, the casserole often incorporates spicy mustard, hot sauce, or smoked sausages, adding a bolder flavor profile. Midwestern versions lean on classic cheddar cheese and a sweeter cornbread base, highlighting the regions affinity for milder, comforting flavors. Some creative variations even fold in ingredients like diced peppers, jalapeos, or onion powder, showcasing the flexibility of the recipe across different households.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While Cheesy Corndog Casserole shares similarities with other baked comfort foods, such as sausage and cornbread casseroles or macaroni and cheese with hot dogs, it stands out because of its direct inspiration from the corn dog. Unlike standard sausage casseroles, the cornbread batter provides a subtly sweet, fluffy texture reminiscent of fried corn dogs. The addition of shredded cheese creates a creamy richness, distinguishing it from simpler hot dog bakes or savory bread puddings.

Typical Serving Occasions

This casserole is most often served as a casual family dinner or as a contribution to potlucks, school events, and holiday brunches. Its approachable ingredients and ease of preparation make it ideal for feeding larger groups. Some families even serve it for game day gatherings, pairing it with tangy dipping sauces, pickles, or a side of coleslaw to balance the richness. Leftovers are easily reheated, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

Interesting Facts

One fun aspect of Cheesy Corndog Casserole is its versatility. While the original recipe uses hot dogs and cheddar, home cooks often experiment with sausages, pepper jack, or mozzarella cheese to adjust heat and flavor. Another unique feature is its nostalgic appeal: it recreates the experience of eating a corn dog on a stick, but in a family-friendly baked format. The dish has even gained a small cult following online, with social media users sharing inventive twists, such as adding honey butter drizzles or using cornbread mix with herbs. Despite its humble origins, it embodies the essence of American comfort foodsimple, satisfying, and fun.

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