**Preparation Steps**

1. **Preheat the Oven:** Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

2. **Prepare the Meat Layer:**

* In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
* Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent and softened.
* Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute to allow the spices to bloom.
* Add the canned chili with beans to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

3. **Prepare the Hot Dog Layer:**

* Slice the hot dogs into bite-sized pieces.
* In a separate pan, cook the sliced hot dogs over medium heat until they are lightly browned. This step adds flavor and texture to the hot dogs.

4. **Assemble the Bake:**

* Spread the meat and chili mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
* Scatter the browned hot dog pieces over the meat layer.
* Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the hot dogs.

5. **Prepare the Biscuit Topping:**

* Open the can of refrigerated biscuit dough and separate the biscuits.
* Cut each biscuit into quarters and arrange the pieces over the cheese layer, covering as much of the surface as possible.

6. **Bake the Dish:**

* Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuit topping is golden brown and cooked through.
* If the biscuits brown too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking until the biscuits are fully cooked.

7. **Serve:**

* Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
* Garnish with chopped green onions or additional shredded cheese, if desired.

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**Nutritional Information**

This hearty dish provides a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. The ground beef and hot dogs offer a good source of protein and iron, while the biscuits provide carbohydrates. The addition of cheese contributes calcium and additional protein. For those seeking to modify the recipe for dietary preferences, consider using lean ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives, and opting for low-fat cheese.

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**Variations and Tips**

* **Vegetable Add-ins:** Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the meat layer for added nutrition and flavor.
* **Spice It Up:** Add a teaspoon of chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
* **Cheese Varieties:** Experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack to change the flavor profile.
* **Make-Ahead Option:** Assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
* **Freezing:** This dish freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 1.5 hours, or until heated through.

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**Serving Suggestions**

Pair this bake with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A side of crusty bread can also be served to soak up any delicious sauce left on the plate.

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**Conclusion**

The Chili Cheese Dog Bake is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings people together. Its simplicity, combined with its rich flavors, makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. By using readily available ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can create a dish that satisfies both the stomach and the soul.

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