Easy Crock Pot Corn Dog Casserole

Searching for an effortlessly delicious meal that brings smiles to every face at the dinner table? Look no further than this incredible **Crock Pot Corn Dog Casserole recipe**! This isn’t just a meal; it’s a comforting experience, a nostalgic journey, and a genius solution for feeding a hungry crowd with minimal fuss. Imagine perfectly cooked hot dogs nestled in a savory bed of beans, all topped with a golden, fluffy cornbread crust – all made conveniently in your slow cooker.

Our family, including my parents and John, couldn’t get enough of this hearty dish, returning for second and even third helpings. There’s a certain magic in the combination of tender beans, savory hot dogs, and sweet cornbread that creates a truly unforgettable, satisfying meal. Plus, the beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity: your crockpot handles the cooking, freeing you up to spend quality time with your loved ones without being chained to the stove.

Crockpot Corn Dog Casserole under a white plate filled with hot dogs, beans and cornbread topping
A generous serving of Crock Pot Corn Dog Casserole, showcasing the golden cornbread topping over the savory hot dog and bean base.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Slow Cooker Corn Dog Casserole

This **Slow Cooker Corn Dog Casserole** isn’t just another recipe; it’s a culinary hack for busy individuals and a surefire hit for family gatherings. Here’s why it will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation:

  • **Effortless Preparation:** With less than 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this hearty meal simmering away in your slow cooker. Just combine, pour, and set it to cook – the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it dinner!
  • **A True Crowd-Pleaser:** Who doesn’t love the classic flavors of corn dogs and baked beans? This casserole combines them into a dish that appeals to both kids and adults, making it perfect for parties, potlucks, or large family dinners.
  • **Budget-Friendly Meal:** Made with inexpensive pantry staples like hot dogs, canned beans, and cornbread mix, this recipe is incredibly economical without compromising on flavor or satisfaction.
  • **Hearty & Filling Comfort Food:** The combination of protein-rich beans and hot dogs with a substantial cornbread topping makes for a wonderfully filling meal that will keep everyone satisfied. It’s the quintessential comfort food, ideal for chilly evenings.
  • **Versatile & Customizable:** While the basic recipe is fantastic, it’s also a blank canvas for customization. Add a touch of spice, different cheeses, or extra vegetables to make it uniquely yours.

Essential Ingredients for Your Crock Pot Corn Dog Casserole

Creating this delicious slow cooker casserole requires a few simple ingredients, most of which you likely already have in your pantry. We focus on common, accessible items to ensure this recipe is as easy to make as it is to enjoy.

For the Flavorful Base:

  • Pork and Beans: The backbone of our casserole, providing a rich and slightly sweet foundation. We recommend using several large cans to ensure a generous, filling base.
  • Hot Dogs: The “corn dog” element! Sliced hot dogs mingle perfectly with the beans. Feel free to use your family’s favorite brand, whether it’s beef, turkey, or mixed.
  • Yellow Onion: Finely diced yellow onion adds a subtle aromatic depth and a touch of savory flavor to the bean mixture.
  • Yellow Mustard: A key ingredient that provides a tangy zest, cutting through the richness of the beans and hot dogs, and really elevating the overall flavor profile.

For the Golden Cornbread Topping:

  • Corn Muffin Mix: A convenient shortcut to achieving that perfect cornbread topping. Any standard corn muffin mix will work wonderfully.
  • Creamed Corn: Adds moisture and a hint of sweetness to the cornbread, making it incredibly tender and flavorful.
  • Large Egg: Helps bind the cornbread mixture together, ensuring a fluffy, cohesive topping.
  • Vegetable Oil: Contributes to the moist texture of the cornbread and helps it cook evenly.
  • Salt: To taste, for seasoning both the bean mixture and balancing the cornbread’s flavor.
corn dog casserole in a slow cooker
The Crock Pot Corn Dog Casserole simmering to perfection in the slow cooker.

The Magic of Your Slow Cooker: A Kitchen Essential

This Crock Pot Corn Dog Casserole truly shines because of the slow cooker’s ability to transform simple ingredients into a deeply flavorful meal with minimal active cooking. A good slow cooker isn’t just an appliance; it’s your best friend in the kitchen, especially on busy weeknights.

For this recipe, and many others, **we highly recommend using a slow cooker with a digital timer** that automatically switches to a “warm” setting after the set cooking time is complete. This feature is a game-changer! It ensures your dinner cooks perfectly without overcooking, giving you peace of mind and the flexibility to manage your day without constantly checking the clock. Imagine leaving for work in the morning and coming home to a perfectly cooked, warm, and ready-to-eat meal. That’s the power of a smart slow cooker, making homemade meals more accessible than ever.

If you’re in the market for a new slow cooker or looking to upgrade, consider models known for their even heating and programmable features. They can truly elevate your cooking experience and make recipes like this corn dog casserole even simpler to execute flawlessly.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Crock Pot Corn Dog Casserole

Making this hearty casserole is incredibly straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a delicious and comforting meal:

Detailed Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Base Mixture: In your slow cooker, combine the canned pork and beans, sliced hot dogs, diced yellow onion, and yellow mustard. Stir these ingredients thoroughly until everything is well mixed and evenly distributed. This forms the savory base of your casserole.
  2. Create the Cornbread Topping: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the corn muffin mix, creamed corn, beaten large egg, and vegetable oil. Whisk these ingredients together until you have a smooth, well-combined batter.
  3. Add the Topping: Carefully pour the cornbread mixture evenly over the top of the hot dog and bean mixture in the slow cooker. Gently spread it out with a spoon or spatula to ensure the entire surface is covered.
  4. Initial Slow Cook: Place the lid on your slow cooker and cook on the LOW setting for 6 hours. During this time, the beans and hot dogs will meld their flavors, and the cornbread topping will begin to set.
  5. Finish Cooking for Golden Perfection: After 6 hours, remove the lid from the crock pot. Continue to cook on the LOW setting for an additional 1 hour. This final hour without the lid allows the cornbread topping to brown beautifully and achieve that perfect golden crust.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the cornbread is golden and cooked through, your Crock Pot Corn Dog Casserole is ready! Ladle generous portions into bowls and serve warm.
Corn dog casserole with beans in a slow cooker bowl
Close-up view of the hearty Corn Dog Casserole, ready to be served directly from the slow cooker.

Tips for the Best Corn Dog Casserole

Achieving the perfect Crock Pot Corn Dog Casserole is simple with a few helpful hints:

  • Don’t Overmix the Cornbread: When preparing the cornbread topping, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough or dense crust. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
  • Check for Doneness: The cornbread topping should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted into it should come out clean. If it’s not quite ready after the final hour, continue cooking with the lid off for another 15-30 minutes, checking periodically.
  • Customize Your Hot Dogs: Experiment with different types of hot dogs – beef, chicken, or even vegetarian sausages – to suit your preferences. Slicing them into coins ensures every bite gets a piece.
  • Add a Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the bean mixture. You could also use a spicier mustard.
  • Cheese, Please! A layer of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese can be added over the hot dog and bean mixture before pouring on the cornbread batter, or sprinkled on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a gooey, cheesy addition.

Creative Variations & Serving Suggestions

While delicious as is, this Slow Cooker Corn Dog Casserole is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

Exciting Variations:

  • **Vegetable Boost:** Sneak in some extra nutrition by adding finely diced bell peppers, corn kernels, or even a can of drained diced tomatoes to the bean mixture.
  • **Smoky Flavor:** A teaspoon of smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke can add a delightful smoky depth to the casserole base.
  • **Sweet & Savory Cornbread:** For a sweeter cornbread, you can add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the corn muffin mix. For a more savory approach, mix in some shredded cheddar cheese and diced jalapeños.
  • **BBQ Flair:** Stir in a few tablespoons of your favorite BBQ sauce into the bean and hot dog mixture for a tangy twist.
  • Homemade Cornbread: If you prefer to make your cornbread from scratch, simply prepare your favorite cornbread batter and use it as the topping. Just ensure it’s a consistency that can be spread over the base.

Perfect Serving Suggestions:

This hearty casserole is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides:

  • Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, light salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole.
  • Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw is a classic pairing for BBQ-style dishes and complements the flavors beautifully.
  • Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus adds a healthy and vibrant touch to your meal.
  • Extra Toppings: Offer additional yellow mustard, ketchup, or even a sprinkle of chopped fresh chives or cilantro for garnish.

Storage and Reheating Your Corn Dog Casserole

Leftovers of this Crock Pot Corn Dog Casserole are just as delicious, making it an excellent candidate for meal prepping!

  • Storage: Allow the casserole to cool completely. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze individual portions. Place cooled casserole in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheating: For best results, reheat individual servings in the microwave until warmed through. You can also reheat larger portions in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, loosely covered with foil to prevent the cornbread from drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use different types of beans?

Absolutely! While pork and beans are traditional, you can experiment with other canned beans like kidney beans, great northern beans, or even a mix of baked beans with different flavor profiles (e.g., brown sugar and bacon baked beans) for a slightly different taste.

Can I make this casserole in the oven instead of a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Combine the hot dog and bean mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the cornbread topping over it. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.

What if my cornbread topping isn’t browning?

If your slow cooker has a “high” setting for the last hour, you could try that, but be careful not to burn it. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the slow cooker insert (if oven-safe) to a preheated oven set to broil for a few minutes, watching it very closely to achieve that desired golden crust.

Can I add cheese to this casserole?

Yes, cheese is a fantastic addition! You can sprinkle shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend cheese over the bean and hot dog mixture before adding the cornbread topping. Alternatively, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a melted, gooey top.

corn dog casserole with baked beans on a white plate

Crock Pot Corn Dog Casserole Recipe

How to make a delicious Corn Dog Casserole Crockpot Recipe

Rated 2.75 from 12 votes

Print Recipe

Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
7 hours
Total Time:
7 hours 10 minutes
Servings:
8
Calories:

573
kcal
Author:
Tammilee Tips

Ingredients

  • 60
    oz
    pork and beans
    (4 cans)
  • 1
    pound
    hot dogs
    (sliced)
  • ½
    cup
    yellow onion
    (diced)
  • 2
    Tablespoon
    yellow mustard
  • 8.5
    oz
    Corn Muffin Mix
  • 15
    oz
    Cream Style Corn
  • 1
    large egg
    (beaten)
  • 2
    Tablespoon
    Vegetable Oil
  • Salt
    (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Combine Pork and Beans, hot dogs, yellow onion and mustard in slow cooker and stir together.
  2. Combine corn muffin mix, creamed corn, egg, and vegetable oil in a bowl. Pour over the top of the hot dog mix and spread to cover.
  3. Cook on low for 6 hours.
  4. Remove the lid of the slow cooker and cook for 1 additional hour on low to brown the topping.

Kitchen Tools

  • Slow cooker

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Crock Pot Corn Dog Casserole Recipe
Amount Per Serving
Calories 573
Calories from Fat 180
% Daily Value*
Fat 20g31%
Saturated Fat 8g50%
Cholesterol 61mg20%
Sodium 1716mg75%
Potassium 872mg25%
Carbohydrates 85g28%
Fiber 15g63%
Sugar 8g9%
Protein 21g42%
Vitamin A 104IU2%
Vitamin C 7mg8%
Calcium 153mg15%
Iron 6mg33%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Explore More Delicious Slow Cooker Recipes

If you loved the ease and comfort of this Crock Pot Corn Dog Casserole, you’ll be thrilled to discover our other fantastic slow cooker creations. The slow cooker is a versatile tool for making hearty, family-friendly meals with minimal effort. Check out some of our other top recommendations:

  • Crock Pot Baked Ziti
  • Slow Cooker Turkey Chili
  • Crock Pot Beef Stroganoff
  • Slow Cooker Chili Mac and Cheese
  • Crock Pot Chicken Pot Pie with Biscuits

Don’t stop there! Explore all our CrockPot Recipes, as well as our delightful Copycat Recipes and decadent Dessert Recipes for more culinary inspiration.

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Recipe originally shared on April 15, 2015. Updated December 2020.