Cheesy Dogs, Chili Twists: Perfect Side Dish Pairings

Chili cheese dogs are a hearty, indulgent meal, and a classic American comfort food. They're easy to make and fun to eat, but what should you serve on the side? Well, you could go for something starchy like French fries, sweet potato fries, tater tots, or homemade potato chips. Or perhaps you'd prefer something a little healthier, like a salad—a corn salad, a shaved Brussels sprout salad, or a broccoli salad would all work well. If you're after something more substantial, you could try mac and cheese, baked beans, or even a cornbread muffin on the side. And don't forget, chili can be spicy, so you might want to balance that out with something sweet or mild, like watermelon.

Potato salad

A good potato salad recipe to pair with chilli cheese dogs is the creamy potato salad from Foodie Crush. It is made with smooth Miracle Whip mayonnaise, mustard, and celery seed. The addition of hard-boiled eggs makes the salad even heartier and goes well with the soft potatoes. This potato salad is a classic picnic food and has been served alongside hot dogs for decades.

Another great option is the Amish Potato Salad, which is a simple yet decadent dish. The dressing incorporates butter, mayonnaise, and spicy mustard, creating the perfect balance of flavours to accompany the starchy potatoes and eggs. This potato salad is always a hit at summer barbecues and would be an excellent choice for a casual get-together or family meal.

When serving chilli cheese dogs, it is ideal to choose side dishes that can be eaten with your hands, as most people eat chilli dogs without utensils. Potato salad fits the bill perfectly, as it can be easily picked up and enjoyed alongside the main course.

Baked goods

Cornbread

Cornbread is a delicious and comforting side dish that pairs well with chilli dogs. Its slightly sweet flavour and crumbly texture complement the spicy and savoury elements of the chilli dog. You can follow a simple cornbread recipe using basic ingredients and bake it to a golden brown. Serve it warm alongside your chilli cheese dogs, and use it to sop up any extra chilli sauce. For an extra special touch, cut the cornbread into long slices and use them as buns for the chilli dogs.

Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that goes perfectly with chilli dogs. The combination of cheesy chilli and creamy macaroni is a match made in heaven. You can find a variety of mac and cheese recipes to suit your taste, from simple and creamy versions to more indulgent options with a crunchy baked crust. Make it a complete meal by serving your chilli cheese dogs with a side of mac and cheese.

Baked Potatoes

Baked potatoes are a versatile side dish that can be loaded with various toppings, making them a perfect pairing for chilli cheese dogs. You can top baked potatoes with chilli, cheese, sour cream, scallions, and more. They provide a hearty and satisfying element to your meal. You can also try twice-baked chilli potatoes for an extra indulgent option.

Potato Chips

Potato chips, or crisps, are a crunchy and salty snack that can be a great side dish for chilli cheese dogs. You can buy a bag of your favourite chips or make your own at home. Homemade potato chips are especially delicious, and you can season them with salt, spices, or even ranch seasoning to add some extra flavour. They provide a light and crispy contrast to the hearty chilli cheese dogs.

Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries are a perfect side dish for chilli cheese dogs. The slight sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the spicy flavours of the chilli dog. You can bake or fry them, and sprinkle them with a little cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Dip them in ketchup or enjoy them as they are for a tasty treat.

Coleslaw

A good coleslaw recipe is essential for any barbecue or summer gathering. One recommended recipe is the purple coleslaw from Inspired Taste. This coleslaw is made with purple cabbage, which is cut into thin slices or bought pre-shredded for added convenience. The cabbage is then mixed with a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, mustard, apple cider vinegar, and celery seed, while fresh parsley adds an earthy flavour. Preparing this coleslaw in advance allows the cabbage to absorb the dressing, resulting in a more tender texture.

Another option is KFC's coleslaw, which combines crunchy shredded cabbage and carrots with a creamy sauce. The secret to its tangy flavour lies in the combination of buttermilk and lemon juice. This coleslaw is an excellent choice for those who prefer a messier chili cheese dog experience.

When serving coleslaw with chili cheese dogs, consider making it in advance to allow the flavours to meld and the cabbage to soften. This side dish will add a refreshing crunch to your meal and help balance the richness of the main course.

French fries

When it comes to seasoning, a bright herbal seasoning can take your French fries to the next level. Spicy seasonings like cayenne pepper and chilli powder add an extra kick that complements the smoky flavours of the chilli dog. You can also experiment with different spices, such as Italian herbs, to enhance the taste of your French fries.

To elevate your French fry experience, consider dipping them in ketchup or a sweet chilli mayo. The combination of chilli cheese dogs and French fries is already a match made in heaven, but adding these dips can take the flavours to new heights.

For a truly indulgent experience, why not try chilli cheese fries? Smother your crispy French fries with hearty chilli and melted cheese for an extra cheesy experience that will satisfy your comfort food cravings. This double dose of chilli is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and will keep everyone asking for more.

Tater tots

When it comes to making tater tots at home, there are a few different methods you can try. One popular approach is to grate or shred potatoes, mix them with flour and eggs, shape them into small cylinders, and then fry them until golden brown. Another option is to mash boiled potatoes, mix them with seasonings, shape them into tots, and then bake or fry them.

Whether you make them from scratch or opt for a store-bought bag, tater tots are a great choice for a fun and casual side dish to accompany your chili cheese dogs. They offer a satisfying contrast in textures and flavours, making them a delightful addition to your meal.

If you're looking for some variation, you can also try making sweet potato tots. These offer a slightly sweeter flavour profile and can be a fun twist on the classic tater tot. You can serve them with a variety of dips or seasonings to enhance their flavour even further.

Frequently asked questions