Hello and welcome to the ultimate grilling guide featuring 18 gourmet hot dogs that are totally out of this world.
Forget everything you know about standard cookouts because we are taking things way past just ketchup and mustard today. These upgrades are absolute show stoppers that I know you will love.
1. Ultimate Breakfast Hotdog
They might call these breakfast hot dogs, but I would happily devour them for dinner any day of the week. You top them with cheese plus hash browns and chopped tomatoes for a seriously filling meal.
Add a sunny side up egg and bacon to really seal the deal. Feel free to swap in cheesy scrambled eggs if that fits your vibe better.
2. Frito Pie Chili Dogs
Imagine chili cheese dogs with a crunchy twist thanks to a heap of Fritos on top. It gets even better with piles of tomatoes and diced onion.
Finish it off with sour cream for the ultimate Tex Mex treat. This is basically a dream come true for texture lovers.
3. Jalapeño Pretzel Dogs
This soft pretzel and hot dog hybrid is easily my favorite recipe on the list. I just cannot get enough of the contrast between the crusty chewy tender pretzel and the snappy juicy hot dog.
You do not even need to make dough from scratch since refrigerated pizza dough works perfectly. It makes for the most amazing bite every single time.
4. Cheesy Mexican Gourmet Hot Dogs
Forget about tacos this Tuesday and try these Mexican hot dogs instead because I promise you will not regret it. They burst with flavor thanks to salty creamy cheese sauce plus red onions and Serrano peppers.
You also get fresh tomatoes and cilantro in the mix. Take it to the next level with crumbled bacon and extra cheese for an explosion of goodness.
5. Classic Grilled Chicago Hot Dog
Nothing beats a classic Chicago hot dog when you crave tried and true flavors. This recipe sticks to the basics because there is absolutely nothing to fix here.
You get that perfect combination of pickle relish plus tomatoes and onions. Top it with mustard to complete this certified hit.
6. Banh Mi Hot Dogs
You absolutely must try these if you consider yourself an adventurous eater. It takes wonderful Asian flavors and gives them a fun Western twist on a bun.
Top your dog with pickled carrots and jalapeños plus cucumbers and cilantro. Finish it with crushed peanuts and Sriracha for a spicy kick.
7. Chipotle Chili Dogs
Who knew you could elevate the classic chili dog to such delicious heights? These feature chipotle infused chili paired with spicy sour cream and green onions.
You also pile on tons of cheese for good measure. Only try these if you can handle the heat because they definitely pack a punch.
8. Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs – 2 WAYS!
Wrapping things in bacon makes everything exciting and you can cook these in the oven or on the grill. The choice is yours but the caramelized onions are a non negotiable topping.
They provide the perfect sweet contrast to the salty bacon. I love how these flavors balance each other out.
9. Tex-Mex Rancheros Hot Dogs
Pile your hot dog high with shredded sharp cheddar and salsa for a colorful medley of Tex Mex flavors. Diced avocado and black beans make it hearty and delicious.
Sprinkle on some fresh cilantro for a pop of green. A spritz of lime juice is the perfect finish for this meal.
10. French Onion Hot Dogs
I honestly had no idea French onion soup could taste this epic in hot dog form. You top them with caramelized onions and melted Gruyere cheese for savory goodness.
A mayo mustard sauce ties it all together beautifully. I guess I know what I am having for lunch all week.
11. Cheesy Hot Dog Taquitos
Ditch the buns and ketchup to stuff your sausage into a corn tortilla with shredded cheese instead. The air fryer does the work to create toasty tortillas and melty cheese in just minutes.
Kick things up a notch by smothering them with guacamole and salsa. Sour cream makes it extra delicious too.
12. Memphis Hot Dogs
Get ready for a mind blowing experience with these beef hot dogs wrapped in bacon. Drizzle them with BBQ sauce and top with cheese plus green onions.
You really cannot go wrong with that savory combination. A drizzle of Kewpie mayo certainly would not hurt either.
13. Cuban Hot Dogs or Cubano Dogs
This gourmet hot dog has it all with deli ham and thinly sliced red onion. Add a spear of dill pickle plus Swiss cheese and mustard for total perfection.
Colors and textures work in harmony here. It is a mash up that deserves a standing ovation.
14. Nacho Hot Dogs
I am pretty sure you will fall in love with these if you enjoy textural contrasts. They come overloaded with melty cheese plus salsa and guacamole.
The secret ingredient is crushed tortilla chips for a distinct crunch. Use spicy chips if you want some added heat.
15. Philly Cheesesteak Dogs
Let us end things with a loud bang thanks to this beautiful monstrosity. It layers a hot dog with steak plus onions and peppers.
Pour cheese sauce over everything to make your taste buds go wild. It is ridiculously amazing.
16. Hawaiian Hot Dogs with Grilled Pineapple and Teriyaki Mayo
Bring together the flavors of Japan and Hawaii with this sticky sweet concoction. You top these with grilled pineapple for a sweet and tangy contrast.
A drizzle of teriyaki mayo adds a creamy umami rich flavor. These colorful treats will definitely be on my next BBQ menu.
17. New York Style Hot Dog
This is the one for you if you like salty and sour flavors with a bit of spice. You top these with onion sauce plus sauerkraut and spicy brown mustard.
I look forward to the sauerkraut adding a nice element of crunch. It is a distinct flavor profile that hits the spot.
18. Chili Dog
These simple things create scrumptious comfort food with minimal effort. You just need toasted buns and grilled dogs topped with chili and cheese.
It is such an easy snack to whip up when you need maximum flavor. This is the kind of food I crave again and again.