Do you want to host the perfect backyard party this weekend or any time this summer without stressing? Our friend and fellow Stamford mom, Kelly with Slim Pickings by Kelly suggests keeping it simple! This epic Chili Cheese Dog Board is a crowd pleaser that’s deceptively simple!
To make things as easy as possible for yourself, include food items that can be prepared ahead or store bought so you’re not stuck in the kitchen while everyone else is having fun.
The ingredients below make enough for four. But, for a larger party, simply double or triple the dogs.
WHAT YOU NEED
- A large serving platter (you can use a cutting board, cookie sheet, etc)
- Serving bowls
- Ramekins
- Chili
- Hot dogs and buns
- Shredded cheese
- Potato Salad
- Sour Cream
- Corn on the cob
- Peppers (jalapeño, mini bells, sweety drops)
- Pickles
- Black olives
- Baby tomatoes
- Red Onion (raw or pickled)
- Tortilla Chips
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Squeeze Cheese
ALTERNATIVES: Above is what’s pictured but anything goes! Some lo-cal alternatives are Greek Yogurt for Sour Cream or Fruit Salad for Potato Salad. Use any other toppings on hand such as sauerkraut, guacamole or grilled onions.
PREP
- Grill the dogs and corn in advance. *Pro-tip: I cut mine in half for those who like smaller bites and more variety
- It’s optional to top with the mustard, ketchup or squeeze cheese in advance (or you can let everyone do it themselves).
- Warm up chili
- Keep dogs, chili and corn warm in oven at 150 degrees until ready to serve.
- Buy or make your own potato salad. Featured is Loaded Potato Salad from Acme.
HOW TO CREATE THE BOARD
- In the center of the board, place a large bowl of chili
- Next, place large bowls of potato salad & shredded cheese
- Add smaller bowls (ramekins work well) of sour cream, ketchup & mustard
- Around the outside, lay down the hot dogs in buns.
- Add toppings using more small bowls or spoons.*Pro-Tip: Use Tostitos Scoops as tiny bowls for olives, jalapeños, mini red peppers and onions. Then just eat your clean up!
- Arrange corn, peppers and other sides in the remaining spaces
- Fill in the blank areas with tortilla chips and serve!
- Don’t forget lots of spoons for guests to pile on the toppings!