Description
Craving a quirky, comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of hot dogs and baked beans in a unique pie form? The Hot Dog Pie, with 11 glowing reviews, is your answer! This kid-friendly meal features a savory ground beef and hot dog filling with baked beans, ketchup, and Velveeta, all tucked into a flaky pie crust and topped with a melty American cheese lattice
Ingredients
To make Hot Dog Pie for 6 servings, you’ll need these key ingredients. Each one adds a layer of flavor or texture to this comforting dish:
- Ground Beef (½ lb): Savory, protein-rich base.
- Hot Dogs (4, cut in half lengthwise and sliced): Adds classic, nostalgic flavor.
- Baked Beans (1 can, 16 oz): Brings sweet, hearty texture.
- Ketchup (½ cup): Provides tangy, tomatoey flavor.
- Brown Sugar (2 tbsp): Adds subtle sweetness.
- Prepared Mustard (2 tbsp): Contributes tangy depth.
- Velveeta (2 oz, cubed): Creates a creamy, melty filling.
- Frozen Deep-Dish Pie Crust (9 inches): Forms a flaky, golden base.
- American Cheese (4 slices): Makes a melty, lattice topping.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Ground Beef: Swap with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
- Hot Dogs: Use turkey hot dogs, sausage slices, or omit for a beef-only version.
- Baked Beans: Replace with chili beans or kidney beans (drained and rinsed for less sweetness).
- Velveeta: Substitute with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Pie Crust: Use a homemade crust, puff pastry, or gluten-free crust.
- Add-Ons: Include diced onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust and ensure baked beans and other ingredients are gluten-free (check labels).
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the filling.
Why These Ingredients Matter: The beef and hot dogs provide protein and nostalgic flavor, while the baked beans and sauces create a sweet-tangy filling. The Velveeta adds creaminess, and the pie crust and cheese lattice bring a crispy, melty finish, making this a fun, balanced meal perfect for family dinners.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Cook the Beef
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- In a large saucepan, cook ½ lb ground beef over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, breaking it into crumbles, until no longer pink (165°F internal temperature).
- Drain excess fat from the saucepan.
Tip: Break up the beef thoroughly for a uniform texture, and drain well to avoid a greasy filling.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- To the beef, add 4 sliced hot dogs, 1 can (16 oz) baked beans, ½ cup ketchup, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 2 tbsp prepared mustard, and 2 oz cubed Velveeta.
- Cook and stir over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the mixture is heated through.
Tip: Stir gently to combine and melt the cheese evenly; cut Velveeta into small cubes for faster melting.
Step 3: Prepare the Pie Crust
- Prick the bottom and sides of 1 frozen deep-dish pie crust (9 inches) with a fork to prevent puffing.
- Bake the crust at 400°F for 10 minutes, until lightly golden.
Tip: Use a frozen crust straight from the freezer for convenience, and prick thoroughly to avoid air bubbles.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Spoon the hot beef mixture into the pre-baked pie crust, spreading evenly.
- Cut 4 slices of American cheese into 4 strips each (16 strips total).
- Arrange the cheese strips in a lattice pattern over the filling.
Tip: Spread the filling evenly to the edges, and weave cheese strips for a classic lattice look.
Step 5: Bake
- Bake at 400°F for 5–10 minutes, until the cheese lattice is melted and bubbly.
Tip: Check that the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden; watch closely to avoid over-browning.
Step 6: Serve
- Let the pie cool for 3–5 minutes to set.
- Slice into 6 wedges and serve hot.
Tip: Serve immediately to enjoy the melty cheese and flaky crust at their best.