Description

A meal-prep friendly recipe for chili cheese dog sliders that can be made in one batch, portioned into four freezer-ready meals, and reheated for stress-free game days or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

16 mini hot dogs (approx. 800g), beef or turkey
24 slider buns (approx. 1.2kg), brioche-style
1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20)
2 tbsp chili powder
2 cups (200g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 large yellow onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
15 oz (425g) can tomato sauce (no salt added)
Melted butter or olive oil (for brushing buns)

Instructions

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and diced onion; cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking meat apart, until beef is browned and onions are translucent. Drain excess fat.
Stir in minced garlic and chili powder; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add tomato sauce and simmer on low for 5 minutes until thick. Set aside to cool slightly.
While chili simmers, boil or steam mini hot dogs for 3-4 minutes. Drain and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line sheet pans with parchment paper.
Split slider buns horizontally. Place bottom halves on pans.
Place one hot dog on each bun bottom. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of chili over each hot dog.
Top with a generous pinch of shredded cheddar cheese.
Place top bun halves on sliders. Brush tops with melted butter or olive oil.
Bake for 10-12 minutes until cheese is bubbly and buns are golden.
Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes.
Wrap portions of 6 sliders tightly in aluminum foil, then place in freezer-safe containers.
To serve, thaw in fridge overnight, then reheat in oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave for 2-3 minutes.

Notes

Cool sliders completely before packing to prevent sogginess. Use dry hot dogs and minimal chili to maintain bun texture. Wrap tightly in foil to prevent freezer burn. Can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6 sliders
Calories: 650
Sugar: 6
Sodium: 1100
Fat: 35
Saturated Fat: 12
Carbohydrates: 45
Fiber: 3
Protein: 28

Keywords: tailgate food, chili cheese dog sliders, meal prep, freezer meals, game day food, slider recipe, comfort food