Cook the beef: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef for 6–8 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess grease to keep the chili from becoming too heavy.
Build the chili base: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2–3 minutes, just until softened and fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to coat the meat evenly with the spices.
Add beans and sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and add the kidney beans. Stir to combine, then let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes to thicken slightly. The sauce should be rich and flavorful but not overly liquidy. Adjust seasoning to taste and remove from heat.
Prepare the hot dogs: Slice the hot dogs into bite-sized pieces or halves, depending on your preferred presentation. You can lightly brown them in a separate skillet for 2–3 minutes if you’d like a crisp exterior and deeper flavor before layering them in the casserole.
Assemble the casserole: Spread half of the chili mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the sliced hot dogs on top of the chili layer, then cover with the remaining chili. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. If using crescent roll dough, unroll it carefully and place it over the casserole to form a light crust. Brush lightly with melted butter for extra golden color.
Bake to bubbly perfection: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, the chili is bubbling at the edges, and the topping (if used) is golden brown. For extra gooeyness, sprinkle the remaining 1 1/2 cups of cheddar over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking and return to the oven until melted.
Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions, jalapeño slices, or a drizzle of extra chili sauce for a kick of heat. Serve hot with a side of cornbread, tortilla chips, or a simple green salad.
