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Mini chili cheese dog sliders are the answer to every casual gathering or game day craving. These bite sized wonders pack all the punch of a classic chili cheese dog but come together in a perfectly snackable way that makes them impossible to resist.
The first time I served these at a backyard barbeque, they disappeared faster than anything else on the table. Now my friends and family ask for them by name whenever there is an event or weekend get together.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Use fresh or recently thawed beef for the richest flavor and best texture
- Tomato sauce: Adds moisture and a tangy depth to the chili mix opt for one with no added sugar if possible
- Ketchup: Gives sweetness with a familiar touch choose a quality brand for robust tomato flavor
- Water: Helps develop a saucy chili that covers every slider just right
- Chili powder: This is the backbone of your seasoning blend pick a fresh or high quality jar for bold flavor
- Cumin: Rounds out the chili with earthy warmth freshly ground is best if you have it
- Salt: Essential to balance all the flavors use sea salt or kosher for more even seasoning
- Black pepper: Lends a pop of heat grind it fresh for maximum aroma
- Cocktail buns or slider buns: Opt for soft but sturdy rolls Hawaiian rolls add extra sweetness
- Little smokies or hot dogs: Go with all beef for the most classic taste or turkey if you want something lighter
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts best and offers a tangy finish hand shred for better texture
Step by Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef:
- Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium high heat. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Allow it to get a deep brown color for maximum flavor and do not rush this step. Drain off any excess grease so your sliders will not turn out oily.
- Simmer the Chili:
- Add tomato sauce ketchup water chili powder cumin salt and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer. Cook while occasionally stirring for at least eight minutes. This lets the flavors meld and the chili starts to thicken and coat the spoon.
- Prep the Buns and Dogs:
- Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit. Arrange your buns snugly in a lightly sprayed baking dish or on a baking sheet. Cut a slit lengthwise down the center top of each bun being careful not to go all the way through.
- Fill the Buns:
- Nestle a little smokie or hot dog into each slit making sure it fits comfortably without tearing the bun. Use your fingers to gently widen the opening if needed so it holds the hot dog neatly.
- Top with Chili and Cheese:
- Spoon a generous amount of warm chili over each smokie. Make sure some chili gets tucked inside the bun around the dog for the juiciest bite. Sprinkle each one generously with shredded cheddar cheese over the chili.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the filled baking dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for ten minutes. The cheese should melt completely and the buns will be just starting to crisp on the edges.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove from the oven and use a spatula to separate each slider. Serve immediately while gooey and hot.
Cheddar cheese is my personal favorite ingredient here because it turns irresistibly gooey and golden in the oven. One time my niece declared these sliders were the reason she learned to use the oven herself and now she insists on being in charge of the cheese topping every time.
Storage Tips
Leftover sliders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their melty texture and prevent sogginess. For longer storage wrap individually and freeze then bake straight from frozen with a little extra baking time.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant based mince if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option. If you are out of cheddar Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese both melt wonderfully. For buns try any soft dinner rolls you have on hand just make sure they are sturdy enough to hold the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve sliders right from the baking dish with small forks or napkins. These pair brilliantly with crunchy slaw chips or a big fresh salad. For parties set up a topping bar with chopped onions pickled jalapenos and extra cheese so everyone can customize their own.
Cultural or Historical Context
Chili dogs became American classics in the early twentieth century especially beloved at ball games and fairs. Translating the experience into slider form gives you easy to eat comfort food with all the nostalgia of the original.
These sliders are always a hit so be ready for them to disappear fast. You might want to make a double batch just in case.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use regular hot dogs instead of little smokies?
Yes, you can cut regular hot dogs to fit the buns for a similar result and flavor.
- → What type of buns work best?
Soft slider buns, Hawaiian rolls, or cocktail buns are ideal for holding the chili, cheese, and hot dogs.
- → How do I prevent soggy buns?
Lightly toasting the buns before assembly or using thicker rolls helps maintain texture.
- → Is it possible to make the chili ahead of time?
Yes, the chili mixture can be made and chilled in advance for quick assembly later.
- → Can I add toppings?
Chopped onions, jalapeños, or extra shredded cheese make excellent customizable toppings after baking.