Hot Dog Casserole 🌭🧀
Overview:
Hot Dog Casserole is a delightful family-style dish that’s both kid-pleasing and perfect for potlucks and family gatherings. This recipe, originating from “The Northern Exposure Cookbook” by Ellis Weiner, offers a comforting blend of macaroni, cheese, and the surprise addition of hotdog slices. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and can be doubled effortlessly. Plus, you can even prep the ingredients ahead of time for added convenience. While the original recipe boasts richness, you can opt for reduced-fat ingredients without compromising too much on taste. Light hotdogs work well here, maintaining flavor while reducing the fat content.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup American cheese, shredded
- 2 1/4 cups Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 onion, diced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). |
| 2 | Grease a 2-quart casserole dish. |
| 3 | Combine the freshly cooked and drained macaroni, sliced hot dogs, and 2 cups of American cheese in the casserole dish; mix thoroughly. |
| 4 | In a medium saucepan, sauté the diced onion with butter over medium heat until the onion is wilted, about 5 minutes. |
| 5 | Quickly whisk in the flour until absorbed, then remove from heat. |
| 6 | Slowly add milk while whisking vigorously to ensure smooth consistency. |
| 7 | Return to heat, whisk in salt and pepper, and bring to a boil, ensuring it doesn’t burn. |
| 8 | Once boiling, remove from heat and pour evenly over the macaroni mixture in the casserole dish. |
| 9 | Gently stir to combine. |
| 10 | Sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup of American cheese. |
| 11 | Bake uncovered for 18-20 minutes or until heated through, and the cheese is melted and lightly browned. |
| 12 | Serve hot and enjoy! |
Tips:
- For added variety, try experimenting with different cheese blends such as Cheddar mixed with Monterey Jack.
- Be cautious as this dish doesn’t freeze well, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 435.3
- Fat: 24.5g
- Saturated Fat: 12.5g
- Cholesterol: 56.9mg
- Sodium: 670.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 40.5g
- Fiber: 1.6g
- Sugar: 2.9g
- Protein: 13g
Conclusion:
Hot Dog Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. With its simple preparation and delicious flavors, it’s a recipe that’s bound to become a family favorite. So why not whip up a batch today and treat your loved ones to a taste of nostalgia with a modern twist? 🌭🧀
