Aileen's Comforting Hot Dog Casserole 🌭🍽️

This comforting hot dog casserole is a nostalgic dish that brings together classic flavors and hearty ingredients for a satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it combines savory franks, tender noodles, and a cheesy, creamy topping. It's a great way to use up leftovers or to impress picky eaters—even your kids will love it! 😋

Consider pairing it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to balance the meal! 🥗🍞

Ingredients

For the casserole

• 1 green pepper, minced
• 1 medium onion, minced
• 1 tablespoon of butter
• ½ pound of hot dog franks, sliced thin
• 1 cup cooked noodles (elbow or egg noodles work well)
• 1/8 teaspoon curry powder (optional for a subtle kick)
• 1 can cream of chicken soup (you can use cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option)
• ¾ cup grated cheese (cheddar or your favorite cheese)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced green pepper and onion, sautéing until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.

   🥄 This step adds a pleasant sweetness to the dish and enhances the overall flavor. Don’t rush it—about 5 minutes should do the trick!

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, sliced franks, cooked noodles, curry powder, and cream of chicken soup. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

4. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Top with the grated cheese.

5. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

   ⏰ Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to achieve that perfect golden brown top!

Serving

This casserole serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for families or meal prep for the week.

Tips & Variations

• Vegetarian: Substitute the franks with plant-based hot dogs and ensure the cream of chicken soup is vegetarian friendly.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to sneak in more veggies, like mushrooms or spinach, to boost the nutrition!
• Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
• Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time. Just cover it and refrigerate before baking. You may need to increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes if baking directly from the fridge.

Enjoy this delightful dish that brings comfort and smiles around the dinner table! 🍽️👨‍👩‍👧‍👦