Enjoy the famous A&W Coney Cheese Dog Copycat Recipe at home! Juicy hot dogs topped with chili, melted cheddar, and onions for the ultimate comfort food.

A&W Coney Cheese Dog topped with chili and melted cheddar cheese.
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If you’ve ever visited A&W, you probably know their famous Coney Cheese Dog is an all-time favorite. Juicy hot dogs are smothered in hearty chili, topped with melted shredded cheese, and served on a soft, fluffy bun—making every bite irresistible. The best part? You don’t need to drive to A&W to enjoy this classic—you can make it right at home in just a few simple steps. This A&W Coney Cheese Dog copycat recipe is easy, family-friendly, and perfect for game day, weeknight dinners, or summer cookouts.

Juicy hot dogs are nestled in perfectly toasted buns, loaded with rich chili, and topped with gooey melted cheese—all thanks to the air fryer. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or just need a quick comfort food fix, this recipe brings all the flavor of a diner-style classic without turning on the stove.

If you love quick Air Fryer Hot Dog Recipes, try my recipe for Frozen Hot Dogs In Air Fryer, Air Fryer Chicago Hot Dogs, How To Reheat Hot Dogs In The Air Fryer, Air Fryer Carolina Style Hot Dogs, or Air Fryer Carolina Style Hot Dogs.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or weekend cookouts.
  • Crispy on the Outside: The air fryer gives the hot dogs a perfectly crispy texture.
  • Cheesy Goodness: Melted cheese adds rich flavor to every bite.
  • Flavor-Packed: The chili adds a savory, spicy kick that everyone will love.
  • Perfect for a Crowd: Easily make large batches for family dinners or gatherings.

A & W Coney Cheese Dog Ingredients

A & W Coney Cheese Dog Recipe ingredients on kitchen table.
  • Hot Dogs: Choose your favorite brand of hot dogs for a deliciously juicy and satisfying base.
  • Hot Dog Buns: Soft and fresh buns hold everything together, adding the perfect chewy texture to each bite.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy layer that complements the chili perfectly.
  • Chili: Use homemade or canned chili for a flavorful topping that brings a hearty, comforting element to the dish.
  • Olive Oil (optional): A light brushing of olive oil on the buns adds a nice golden finish and enhances the flavor when toasted.

How To Make A & W Coney Cheese Dog

Place the hot dogs into the Air Fryer Basket.

Step One: Preheat your air fryer to 360 degrees F (180°C), for 3-5 minutes. Place the hot dogs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Set cook time for 4-5 minutes until they are heated through.

Cooked Coney Cheese Dog Recipe in the air fryer basket.

Step Two: Slice the hot dog buns lengthwise, but not all the way through, so they can hold the chili and cheese. Spoon your favorite chili onto each hot dog, then sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese.

Step Three: Return the loaded hot dogs to the air fryer basket. Set air fryer temperature to 360 degrees F (180°C) set cook time for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Homemade A&W Coney Cheese Dog with chili and melted cheese.

A & W Coney Cheese Dog Recipe Recipe Tips

  • Use Quality Hot Dogs: Choose your favorite brand for the best taste and texture.
  • Lightly Oil the Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  • Top with Cheese: Add cheese just before the hot dogs are done cooking for a perfect melt.
  • Use Homemade or Canned Chili: Both options work well, but homemade chili adds an extra touch of flavor.
  • Keep an Eye on Cooking Time: Air fry the hot dogs for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway for even crisping.

Storing & Reheating

  • Storing: Store leftover chili cheese hot dogs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Freezing: Wrap the hot dogs tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until hot and crispy, or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Copycat chili cheese dog served on a toasted hot dog bun.

What To Serve With A & W Coney Cheese Dog Recipe

A & W Coney Cheese Dog Recipe are a crowd-pleasing meal that pairs well with a variety of sides. Serve them with crispy French fries, onion rings, or sweet potato fries for a classic combo. For a lighter option, pair with a fresh side salad or coleslaw. You can also add some grilled veggies or pickles for a nice contrast to the rich, cheesy chili topping. These hot dogs are perfect for a casual family dinner or a fun cookout!

A & W Coney Cheese Dog Recipe Faqs

Can I use any type of hot dog? Yes! Choose your favorite brand or style, such as beef, chicken, or plant-based hot dogs.

Can I use shredded cheese instead of sliced cheese? Absolutely! Shredded cheese will melt just as well and can be sprinkled on top for an even melt.

Can I use store-bought chili? Yes, store-bought chili works perfectly for a quicker option, but homemade chili will add extra flavor.

How long should I cook the hot dogs? Air fry the hot dogs for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through for even crispiness.

Can I use other buns besides regular hot dog buns? Of course! You can use soft rolls, toasted buns, or even gluten-free options for a personalized touch.

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A & W Coney Cheese Dog Recipe

A & W Coney Cheese Dog Recipe

5 from 3 votes
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings

Description

Make the classic A&W Coney Cheese Dog Recipe at home! Juicy hot dogs topped with rich chili, melted cheddar cheese, and onions for the perfect comfort food.

Ingredients 

  • 4 hot dogs
  • 4 hot dog buns
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, or cheese of your choice
  • 1 cup chili, homemade or canned
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil, optional, for brushing buns

Instructions

  • Start by preheating your air fryer to 360°F (180°C). Place the hot dogs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until they are heated through and have a slight crisp.
  • Slice the hot dog buns lengthwise, but not all the way through, so they can hold the chili and cheese. Optionally, you can lightly toast the inside of the buns in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes if you prefer a crunchier texture.
  • Spoon your favorite chili onto each hot dog, then sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese.
  • Return the loaded hot dogs to the air fryer basket. Cook at 360°F (180°C) for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Carefully remove the chili cheese dogs from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy your delicious and easy air fryer chili cheese dogs!

Equipment

  • Air Fryer, Air Fryer Basket or Air Fryer Oven
  • Cooking Spray
  • Parchment Paper, optional

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 405kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 17gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 53mgSodium: 859mgPotassium: 253mgFiber: 1gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 640IUVitamin C: 54mgCalcium: 271mgIron: 2mg

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