Samantha There’s just something about the sizzle of hot dogs, the melty goodness of cheddar cheese, and a hearty spoonful of chili that screams comfort food. And when you tuck it all into soft Hawaiian rolls, toast it to golden perfection, and serve it up bite-sized? You’ve got yourself the ultimate crowd-pleaser: Mini Chili Cheese Dog Sliders.
These cheesy, meaty sliders are my go-to whenever I want to make a low-effort, high-impact snack that gets everyone excited. Perfectly portable, full of flavor, and endlessly customizable, they bring together the classic comfort of chili dogs and the easy charm of baked sliders in one party-ready package. Whether you’re hosting a tailgate party, feeding a crowd for the big game, or just looking for a fun twist on family dinner, these mini chili cheese dog sliders always deliver. I especially love how kid-friendly they are—and how adults devour them just as fast.
Add a little garlic butter on top, melt some cheese in the middle, and bake until bubbly? Oh yes. This is make-ahead magic meets weeknight comfort food in the most delicious way.
Mini Chili Cheese Dog Sliders (Easy Make-Ahead Party Snack Recipe)
Ingredients
- 12- pack Hawaiian rolls keep them connected
- 6 beef hot dogs sliced in half
- 1 cup chili homemade or store-bought, thick consistency
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard optional
For the Garlic Butter Topping
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley or fresh, finely chopped
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat and PrepPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Step 2: Slice the RollsWithout separating the rolls, slice them in half horizontally to create a top and bottom layer. Place the bottom half into your baking dish.
- Step 3: Add the Hot DogsLay the hot dog halves evenly across the rolls. Each half should sit neatly across one roll.
- Step 4: Layer the ChiliSpoon a generous tablespoon of chili over each hot dog. Make sure it’s spread evenly and doesn’t spill over.
- Step 5: Sprinkle the CheeseTop the chili layer with shredded cheddar cheese, making sure every slider gets a good helping.
- Step 6: Mustard Drizzle (Optional)If you’re a mustard fan, drizzle a bit over the cheese before placing the tops of the rolls back on.
- Step 7: Brush with Garlic ButterMix all ingredients for the garlic butter. Brush it generously over the tops of the rolls.
- Step 8: BakeCover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5–7 minutes until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted.
- Step 9: Slice and ServeLet cool slightly, then cut into individual sliders and serve warm.
Notes
Secret Tips for Perfect Mini Chili Cheese Dog Sliders
Want to take your mini chili cheese dog sliders from good to jaw-dropping? These behind-the-scenes secrets will make your sliders crispier, cheesier, and even more flavorful—without adding much effort.1. Toast the Bottom Buns First: Before assembling, lightly toast just the bottom halves of your rolls in the oven for 5 minutes. This prevents sogginess from the chili and keeps the sliders sturdy—especially important for make-ahead or freezer-friendly batches. 2. Use Cold Chili for Easy Assembly: Chilling your chili before assembly makes it easier to spoon and spread evenly without soaking the bread. Cold chili firms up slightly, letting you layer generously without mess. 3. Double the Garlic Butter and Brush the Bottoms: Everyone loves golden, buttery tops—but brushing the bottom of the rolls with garlic butter before baking adds incredible flavor and helps crisp up the base for a toasted bite with every chew. 4. Layer Cheese Twice for Extra Melt: Add a small sprinkle of shredded cheese underneath the hot dogs and over the chili. This sandwiching technique ensures gooeyness in every layer and helps hold everything together when sliced. 5. Steam for a Softer Bite, Crisp for Crunch: Want super-soft, pull-apart sliders? Keep them covered with foil the entire bake time. Prefer a slightly crisp top and edge? Remove foil for the last 5–7 minutes of baking to get that golden finish. 6. Let Them Rest Before Cutting: Give the sliders 5 minutes to rest out of the oven before slicing. This allows the cheese and chili to settle, making it much easier to cut into neat, bite-sized portions.
These tips will help you perfect the balance between soft and crispy, cheesy and meaty—so every batch you bake comes out worthy of seconds (and thirds).
Recipe Overview
Cuisine: American
Category: Appetizer, Game Day Snack, Make-Ahead Dinner
Primary Keyword: Mini Chili Cheese Dog Sliders
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 sliders
Nutritional Snapshot
Calories: 230
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 21g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 4g
Estimates are based on standard ingredients and serving size.
Budget Breakdown
| Ingredient | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Hot dogs | $2.50 |
| Hawaiian rolls | $3.00 |
| Cheddar cheese | $2.00 |
| Homemade chili | $4.00 |
| Total per batch | ~$11.50 (less than $1 per slider) |
Behind the Recipe
Mini chili cheese dog sliders were born in my kitchen one hectic weeknight when I needed something quick, hearty, and fun. My fridge had leftover chili, half a pack of hot dogs, and a tray of Hawaiian rolls I planned to use for breakfast sandwiches. But my kids were hungry now, and I needed something that would excite them (and me) with minimal cleanup.
That night, I split those rolls, stuffed them with chopped dogs and hot chili, added a heavy layer of shredded sharp cheddar, and topped it all off with melted garlic butter. Baked it until golden, and that was it—game day-worthy flavor with weeknight effort. The crispy tops, cheesy centers, and just-sweet-enough buns made every bite a hit.
Since then, this recipe has become my signature party trick. I’ve served these sliders for football nights, movie marathons, birthday parties, and potlucks—and they vanish fast. They’re easy to prep ahead, even easier to customize (think spicy jalapeños or veggie chili versions), and guaranteed to get folks reaching for seconds.
If you love baked sliders, cheesy chili dogs, or just need something crowd-pleasing and freezer-friendly, you’re going to adore these.
Why You’ll Love These Mini Chili Cheese Dog Sliders
These Mini Chili Cheese Dog Sliders bring everything you crave in a comfort food snack—without the hassle of serving full-sized chili dogs. Whether you’re hosting a game day bash, feeding a hungry family on a weeknight, or prepping ahead for a potluck, these sliders deliver on flavor, flexibility, and fun. Here’s why they’re always a hit:
Perfect Game Day Food
When it comes to game day sliders, it’s all about easy-to-grab, mess-free bites that pack in serious flavor. These mini sliders fit the bill beautifully. Their bite-sized format makes them ideal for tailgates, football watch parties, or casual get-togethers. You can slice and serve them straight from the baking dish, and they stay warm and melty for a good while—no fancy setup needed.
Easy to Make Ahead
Make-ahead chili cheese sliders are a lifesaver for busy hosts and meal preppers. You can fully assemble these the night before, wrap the pan tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When it’s time to serve, just bake until golden and bubbly. They’re also freezer-friendly—so doubling a batch now means you’ve got a future snack ready to go.
For food safety and reheating guidance, check out the FDA’s storage tips.
Crowd Favorite
This recipe checks every box for party-friendly appetizers: gooey cheese, rich chili, buttery buns, and hot dogs baked into one crave-worthy bite. It’s no surprise that mini hot dog sliders like these are always among the first things to disappear at parties. They’re a hit with adults who love nostalgia and kids who love anything handheld and cheesy.
Versatile
While the classic chili-cheddar combo is unbeatable, you can easily switch things up. Try spicy sausage instead of hot dogs, pepper jack in place of cheddar, or even a vegetarian chili base for meatless guests. Want to go full Southern comfort? Swap the rolls for biscuit dough and create chili cheese biscuit sliders.
Comfort Food Goals
There’s no denying it—these sliders are a warm, melty hug in food form. The rich chili, gooey melted cheese, and garlicky buttered buns hit every note of satisfaction. They’re the kind of comfort food dinner or party snack that people rave about and request again and again.
So whether you’re searching for baked sliders for parties, easy chili cheese dog appetizers, or just a weeknight win, this recipe delivers every time.
Perfect For
These Mini Chili Cheese Dog Sliders are the ultimate multi-purpose recipe—perfect for almost any occasion where flavor and convenience matter. From game day gatherings to laid-back family meals, they deliver every time with minimal prep and maximum crowd appeal. Here’s how you can work them into your meal plan or party spread:
Game Day Parties and Tailgates
There’s no better time to serve these sliders than during football season or any sporting event. Their handheld size and bold, cheesy flavor make them ideal tailgate sliders—easy to transport, simple to serve, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you bake them on site or bring them fully prepped, these hot mini sandwiches will be gone before halftime.
Easy Family Dinners
Looking for a quick weeknight slider recipe that doesn’t skimp on taste? These sliders are made with simple, budget-friendly ingredients like hot dogs, shredded cheddar, and Hawaiian rolls. They can be on the table in 35 minutes or less, making them an excellent fallback when dinner plans go sideways. Plus, the entire family—from toddlers to teens—will love them.
Potluck Appetizers
Need a dish that travels well and holds up on a buffet table? These baked chili cheese dog sliders check all the boxes. The soft rolls stay intact, the cheese stays melty, and the chili brings that hearty, comfort food vibe everyone wants at a potluck. Serve with a side of mustard or ketchup for dipping to level up the experience.
Kid-Friendly Snacks
These sliders are a huge hit with kids. They’re essentially mini hot dog sandwiches with cheese and chili—what’s not to love? Slice them smaller for tiny hands or pack leftovers in a lunchbox for a fun, satisfying meal. You can even swap in turkey dogs or leaner options if you’re trying to keep things lighter. According to Mayo Clinic, using lower-sodium or uncured meats can be a healthier choice for growing kids.
Make-Ahead Freezer Meals
These sliders aren’t just party food—they’re also a smart make-ahead freezer meal. Assemble them completely (just skip the baking), then wrap tightly in foil and freeze. When you need them, just bake straight from frozen until golden and warmed through. Perfect for busy families, last-minute guests, or lazy Sunday cravings.
Whether you’re looking for easy party appetizers, a game-day MVP, or a freezer-friendly dinner win, these Mini Chili Cheese Dog Sliders have got you covered.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Sliders
- 12-pack Hawaiian rolls (keep them connected)
- 6 beef hot dogs, sliced in half
- 1 cup chili (homemade or store-bought, thick consistency)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard (optional)
For the Garlic Butter Topping
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or fresh, finely chopped)
- Pinch of salt
Ingredient Highlights
- Beef Hot Dogs: I love using nitrate-free all-beef hot dogs. Cleveland Clinic explains the difference between cured meats and uncured options for better health.
- Chili: A thick chili with beans and ground beef works best here. You want it rich and not watery so it doesn’t make the buns soggy.
- Hawaiian Rolls: Their sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory chili and cheese.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Offers bold flavor that doesn’t get lost in the mix. For dairy nutrition facts, Nutritionix has a detailed breakdown.
How to Make Mini Chili Cheese Dog Sliders
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Slice the Rolls
Without separating the rolls, slice them in half horizontally to create a top and bottom layer. Place the bottom half into your baking dish.
Step 3: Add the Hot Dogs
Lay the hot dog halves evenly across the rolls. Each half should sit neatly across one roll.
Step 4: Layer the Chili
Spoon a generous tablespoon of chili over each hot dog. Make sure it’s spread evenly and doesn’t spill over.
Step 5: Sprinkle the Cheese
Top the chili layer with shredded cheddar cheese, making sure every slider gets a good helping.
Step 6: Mustard Drizzle (Optional)
If you’re a mustard fan, drizzle a bit over the cheese before placing the tops of the rolls back on.
Step 7: Brush with Garlic Butter
Mix all ingredients for the garlic butter. Brush it generously over the tops of the rolls.
Step 8: Bake
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 5–7 minutes until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted.
Step 9: Slice and Serve
Let cool slightly, then cut into individual sliders and serve warm.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Thick Chili: A runny chili will soak the buns. If your chili is too watery, simmer it longer before using.
- Pre-Slice Your Hot Dogs: It helps them cook evenly and stay in place.
- Toaster Trick: Lightly toast the bottom rolls before assembly to avoid sogginess.
- Freezer-Friendly: Assemble and freeze before baking. Wrap tightly, and when ready, bake from frozen at 350°F for 25–30 minutes.
Easy Variations
One of the best things about these Mini Chili Cheese Dog Sliders is how customizable they are. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, spice lovers, vegetarians, or just want to mix things up, this recipe is built for flexibility. Here are a few creative variations that use strategic swaps to suit different tastes and dietary preferences—all while keeping that comforting, cheesy goodness front and center.
Spicy Kick
If you’re looking to turn up the heat, this one’s for you. Add thin slices of fresh or pickled jalapeños on top of the chili before the cheese layer. You can also swap the shredded cheddar for pepper jack cheese to give the sliders a bold, spicy twist. For a deeper, smoky flavor, sprinkle in a bit of chipotle chili powder or use spicy chili made with hot sausage. These tweaks transform the dish into crave-worthy spicy chili cheese sliders that are perfect for adult game-day crowds.
Chili Cheese Brats
Trade the standard hot dogs for bratwurst links for a heartier, German-inspired version of this classic. Brats pair beautifully with thick chili and melted cheese, making the sliders feel more elevated and substantial. Slice them lengthwise to fit the buns and build your sliders as usual. These chili cheese brat sliders are perfect for Oktoberfest parties or any time you want a more gourmet bite.
Biscuit Sliders
Want a Southern-style twist? Replace the Hawaiian rolls with soft buttermilk biscuit dough. You can use homemade biscuits or a quality refrigerated version. Assemble the sliders as usual, but place them in a cast iron skillet for baking. The result is rich, flaky, buttery chili cheese biscuit sliders that feel like an indulgent brunch-meets-dinner mash-up. For flaky biscuit nutrition info, Nutritionix offers a helpful breakdown to guide your choices.
Veggie Version
Feeding vegetarians or trying to eat less meat? This variation proves you don’t need hot dogs to enjoy a great chili cheese slider. Use plant-based hot dogs or soy sausages and pair them with your favorite meatless chili (either homemade or store-bought). Vegan cheddar shreds melt beautifully and can give you that gooey texture without dairy. The combination of hearty beans, smoky spices, and cheesy goodness will still satisfy your comfort food craving—just with a meat-free twist.
Whether you’re catering to dietary needs, spicing things up for a party, or just using what you have on hand, these easy variations make mini hot dog sliders more versatile than ever.
Storage & Reheat Tips
- To Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: Wrap in foil and reheat at 350°F for 10–12 minutes. Microwave works in a pinch, but the oven keeps the texture better.
- To Freeze: Freeze baked or unbaked sliders. Wrap tightly and label with date.
Make It a Meal
Pair these Mini Chili Cheese Dog Sliders with any of these easy, crowd-pleasing recipes:
Tag-based pairings:
What buns work best for mini chili cheese dog sliders?
Hawaiian rolls are the most popular choice because they’re soft, slightly sweet, and hold up well in the oven without getting soggy. Their flavor complements the savory chili and cheese perfectly. You can also use slider buns, potato rolls, or even dinner rolls if you prefer something less sweet.
How do I keep my sliders from getting soggy?
The key to avoiding soggy sliders is using a thick chili that won’t seep into the bread. You can also toast the bottom layer of the rolls before assembly to create a barrier that helps preserve their texture. Avoid overloading with mustard or watery chili, and make sure your rolls are fresh but sturdy.
Can I make chili cheese dog sliders ahead of time?
Yes, this is one of the best make-ahead slider recipes you’ll find. Assemble the entire dish the night before, wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to bake. This is especially helpful if you’re prepping for a party or potluck.
Are chili cheese sliders freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! These are ideal freezer meal sliders. You can freeze them either before baking (preferred for freshness) or after baking and cooling. Wrap them tightly in foil or freezer-safe containers, label with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months.
What’s the best cheese for mini chili cheese dog sliders?
I personally love using sharp cheddar cheese because it has a bold flavor and melts beautifully. You can also use Monterey Jack, pepper jack for some spice, or a blend of cheeses. If you’re watching sodium or fat, Nutritionix provides a great nutritional breakdown of different cheese options.
Can I use leftover chili for chili cheese dog sliders?
Yes! In fact, leftover chili works beautifully for this recipe—just make sure it’s thick enough. Thin or watery chili will cause sogginess. If your chili is on the runny side, simmer it for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid before using it in your sliders.
How long should I bake mini chili cheese dog sliders?
Bake covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, then uncover and bake another 5–7 minutes until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted. This two-step process ensures everything is heated through while giving the rolls a golden crust.
Can I reheat chili cheese sliders in the microwave?
Yes, but for best results, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes to maintain the texture. The microwave will warm them faster but may make the buns rubbery or soft. If you must microwave, wrap them in a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals.
How many sliders per person for a party?
If you’re serving these as a main dish, plan for 3–4 sliders per adult. As an appetizer or party snack, 2 sliders per person is usually enough—especially if you’re serving other finger foods. This makes them one of the most budget-friendly party food ideas you can make in bulk.
What’s a good side dish for chili cheese dog sliders?
Great pairings include tater tots, mac and cheese, coleslaw, or a simple garden salad to lighten things up. For something fun, serve them with mini corn on the cob or baked sweet potato fries for a comfort food twist.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason these mini chili cheese dog sliders are one of my most requested recipes—they hit every craving. They’re comforting, hearty, cheesy, and completely satisfying. Whether I’m planning for a game day spread, building a potluck lineup, or just trying to make dinner fun again, these sliders get it done. The best part? They’re as easy to make as they are to eat.
So next time you’ve got hot dogs and chili on hand, don’t settle for the same old plate. Make a batch of these sliders and bring the comfort, flavor, and fun straight to the table. You won’t regret it—and neither will your guests.
“Cheesy, meaty, and party-perfect—these mini sliders are everything you love about chili dogs, made easier.” – Sam
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Soft Hawaiian rolls, juicy hot dogs, hearty chili, and gooey cheddar cheese come together for the ultimate finger food—baked until golden and ready to steal the spotlight!
