3 Ways to Cook Hotdogs at Home
My husband's favorite holiday is the 4th of July. We always celebrate by having a big party at our house, with music playing, corn hole games, and hot dogs sizzling on the grill.
While hot dogs may not always scream “healthy,” there are ways to make them a better choice! I prefer using 100% beef hot dogs, free of nitrates. Today, I’ll show you how to pan fry, air fry, and grill them, ensuring they’re both delicious and healthier.
Product Recommendations
To get started, you’ll need the right tools. Here are my top recommendations to help you cook hot dogs to perfection!
Grill Pan: A great alternative to an outdoor grill, perfect for those rainy days. I use the Lodge Pro-Grid Cast Iron Grill Pan, which provides even heat distribution and gives those beautiful grill marks.
Air Fryer: An essential kitchen gadget for quick and healthy cooking. I recommend the Ninja Foodi Air Fryer for its large capacity and user-friendly controls.
Non-Stick Frying Pan: Ideal for pan-frying hot dogs without adding extra oil. The GreenPan Rio Healthy Ceramic Nonstick Frying Pan is my go-to for even browning and easy cleanup.
Large Pot: If you decide to boil your hot dogs, this Farberware Classic Stainless Steel 6-Quart Covered Stockpot is perfect for bringing water to a rolling boil and cooking multiple hot dogs at once.
Ingredients for Healthy Hot Dogs
Before we dive into the different cooking methods, let’s gather the ingredients:
100% Beef Hot Dogs: Look for high-quality, nitrate-free options. These are healthier and have a richer flavor.
Hot Dog Buns (Optional): Whole grain or whole wheat buns are great options for added fiber.
Favorite Toppings: Mustard, ketchup, relish, sauerkraut, onions, tomato slices, pickle spears, celery salt, etc.
Cooking Directions
Grill Method
Grilling hot dogs is perhaps the most traditional and best way to cook them for a nice char and smoky flavor. Here’s how I do it:
Preheat the Grill: Set your grill to medium-high heat. An open flame is ideal for that classic grilled flavor.
Grill the Hot Dogs: Place the hot dogs directly on the grill grates. Grill for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until they have grill marks and are heated through.
Why Grill?
Grilling gives a delicious smoky flavor and gives the hot dogs a nice char. This method is great for batch cooking and is perfect for outdoor gatherings. Plus, grilling is a healthy option since it allows excess fats to drip away.
Pan Fry Method:
Pan frying is a fantastic and easy method to get those hot dogs cooked perfectly, especially if you don’t have a grill. Here’s an easy way to pan fry hot dogs:
Heat the Skillet: Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. You don’t need to add oil as the natural fats in the hot dogs will suffice.
Fry the Hot Dogs: Place the hot dogs in the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are nicely browned on all sides. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of at least 160°F.
Why Pan Fry?
Pan frying gives you control over the cooking process, ensuring the hot dogs are evenly cooked. This method is quick and efficient, making it ideal for a quick meal. It’s also an excellent choice for cooking smaller batches of dogs and ensuring they have that nice charred skin.
Air Fryer Method
Using an air fryer is a modern and healthy option for cooking hot dogs. It’s quick, easy, and requires minimal cleanup. Here’s how to do it:
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 4 minutes.
Air Fry the Hot Dogs: Place the hot dogs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are browned and heated through. This method helps to avoid cold centers, giving you an evenly heated, juicy dog.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Air frying is a healthier cooking method because it uses less oil while still achieving a crispy exterior. It’s also a convenient option for those who want a quick and easy recipe without the mess of a grill or frying pan. The air fryer’s circulating hot air ensures that the hot dogs are cooked thoroughly and evenly.
Why Slice a Hot Dog on a Bias?
Slicing hot dogs on a bias before cooking might seem like an extra step, but it’s a game-changer. Here’s why:
More Surface Area: Slicing increases the surface area, allowing for a more even and faster cooking time. This is especially helpful if you’re using a frying pan.
Prevents Curling: Sliced hot dogs tend to stay flat, which means they’ll cook more evenly and won’t curl up on you.
Better Flavor Absorption: The slits help the hot dogs absorb more flavor from your favorite condiments and toppings.
How to Slice Hot Dogs on a Bias
Place your hot dog on a cutting board and hold it firmly with one hand.
Using a sharp knife, cut the hot dog at an angle, about 45 degrees. Each slice should be about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick, depending on your preference.
Repeat for all hot dogs you plan to cook.
What to Serve with Hot Dogs?
Hot dogs are incredibly versatile and can be paired with various sides for a complete meal. Here are some great options:
Corn on the Cob: Try air-fried corn on the cob for a sweet and savory side.
Shishito Peppers: Add a bit of spice with air-fried shishito peppers.
Loaded Potato Skins: These air-fried loaded potato skins are an irresistible side dish, packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion.
Jalapeño Poppers: For a spicy kick, try these air fryer jalapeño poppers.
How to Store and Reheat Leftover Hot Dogs
Leftover hot dogs can be a lifesaver for a quick meal. Here’s how to store and reheat them using different methods:
Storage: Place leftover hot dogs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat the hot dogs in the microwave or quickly pan fry them to bring back the warmth and flavor. You can also use the air fryer for a quick reheat, ensuring they are evenly heated without drying out.
Creative Toppings and Serving Ideas
Adding unique toppings can transform your hot dog experience. Here are some of my favorite combinations:
Chicago Style: Top your hot dog with mustard, relish, chopped onions, tomato slices, a pickle spear, and a dash of celery salt. Serve it in a poppyseed bun for the full experience.
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeño slices, hot sauce, and a drizzle of spicy mayo for a fiery treat.
Cooking healthy hot dogs can be easy and delicious with these methods. Whether you prefer the smoky flavor from grilling, the control from pan frying, or the convenience of an air fryer, there’s a method here for everyone. Try these different methods and enjoy your delicious hot dog with your favorite toppings!
What’s your favorite way to cook hot dogs? Share your tips and recipes in the comments below!
