Grilling hot dogs is a crucial element of backyard barbecues and summer cookouts. Hots are a universally loved food and easy to make. Grilled hot dogs are also one of the easiest and simplest ways to feed a crowd.
However, grilling hot dogs is a little bit of an art form, and you need to know your way around it in order to make the most out of it. You can take your hot dogs from average to amazing with the right tips and tricks. We will share some of those grilling tips and tricks with you in this guide.
Learn About Hotdogs Before You Grill Them
Chose The Best Hot Dogs
One of the top secrets to making a good dish is choosing the right ingredients, and that also applies to grilling hot dogs. The best hot dogs are naturally tasty and require very little effort to better their taste when grilling.
- Always opt for high-quality hot dogs made with natural ingredients.
- Choose hots dogs made with a beef and pork blend or all-beef.
- Avoid hot dogs made with artificial ingredients and fillers.
- Look for the best hot brand that makes their hot dogs with a natural casing, as this will ensure the juiciness and shape of the hot dogs remain intact on the grill.
Experiment With Different Types Of Hot Dogs
While the conventional all-beef hot dogs are the favorite of many, don’t be scared to experiment with different types of hot dogs. There are various options to explore, from white hot dogs to spicy sausages to veggie dogs. Try to mix things up and see how creative you can be.
Part I: The Basics Of Grilling Hot Dogs
Preheat The Grill
Preheat your grill for a few minutes before you start grilling. When the entire unit is hot, your hot dogs will cook evenly. It will also prevent the hots dogs from sticking to the grill grates. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat for about 10 to 15 minutes before placing your sausages on the grill grates.
Oil The Grill Grates
Another grilling tip to enhance the taste of your hot dogs and prevent them from sticking to the grill is oiling the grill grates. Use a cooking spray to sprinkle oil on a paper towel or dip it in vegetable oil and use tongs to rub the oil onto the grill grates. This will create a non-stick surface, allowing your hot dog to cook without sticking to the grates.
Make A Few Slits In Your Hot Dog Before Grilling
Another quick tip to make your hot dog taste better is to make a few lists on them before tossing them onto the gill. Make about 5-6 small slits on the hot dogs with a paring knife before placing them on the grill grates. This will ensure they don’t get shrivelled up. It will also make the toppings penetrate the hot dogs to provide an even taste.
Grill For Five Minutes Or Less
Your hot dog grill time is another essential factor that contributes to how it will taste after grilling. Do you know there is an optimal angle for placing your hot dog when grilling it? Placing your hot dogs at a 45-degree angle to the grill grates will ensure they are grilled perfectly.
Grill each side of the hot dogs for two to three minutes or until they are evenly heated and have grill marks on all sides. The secret to grilling them evenly is to keep rotating them. Knowing how long to grill hot dogs is the key ingredient for many professional chefs.
Do Not Overcook
One common mistake many people make when grilling hot dogs is overcooking them. Hot dog factories already pre-cook these hot dogs before packaging them. All you are doing on the grill is just hitting them up, not cooking them from scratch. The hot dogs will dry out and become tough when you overcook them. Knowing how to cook hot dogs on the grill will help retain the taste and prevent it from drying up.
Use A Meat Thermometer
If you are having trouble determining when your hot dogs are cooked through, we recommend you use a meat thermometer. You can use this to check the internal temperature of the hot dogs. Put the thermometer in the thickest part of the hot dog (make sure it does not go through and touch the grill grates). If the hot dog is fully cooked, the thermometer should read at least 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
Grill In Foil
Grilling in foil is one simple hot dog grilling hack that many people do not know about. This approach is great for keeping your hot dogs warm while you finish grilling other food. It is also great for cooking hot dogs with toppings, as it helps heat the toppings into the hot dogs for a better taste and smell.
Wrap one or two hot dogs in foil with your preferred toppings and grill for a few minutes. Do not forget to flip them frequently to prevent overcooking. The foil will steam your hot dogs, making them juicer and more flavorful.
Experiment With Different Types Of Hot Dogs
While the conventional all-beef hot dogs are the favorite of many, don’t be scared to experiment with different types of hot dogs. There are various options to explore, from white hot dogs to spicy sausages to veggie dogs. Try to mix things up and see how creative you can be.
Part 2: How To Serve Them Tasty
Wrap In Bacon
One of the best ways to enhance the taste and smell of your grilled hot dogs is by wrapping them in bacon before grilling. Hot dogs wrapped in bacon are a decadent and delicious treat that will excite your tastebud and that of your guests. Wrap one strip of bacon around one hot dog before cooking and grilling as usual. The bacon will add a crispy texture and smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with hot dogs.
Add Toppings
You can spice things up by adding toppings. Adding toppings is where you get to showcase your cooking creativity, as there are dozens of options to explore when it comes to hot dog toppings. Some popular and exceptional toppings include mustard, ketchup, onions, and relish. To get creative with your toppings, you can add sauerkraut, cheese, chili, or even avocado.
Toast Your Buns
Toasting your buns on the grill is one simple way to take your hot dogs to the next level. Place your buns (the cut side should be facing down) on the grill for 40 to 60 seconds or until they are lightly toasted. This will add more flavor to your hot dogs while giving the buns a slightly crispy texture.
Make Your Own Condiments
Store-bought condiments are easy and quick, but making your own can take your grilled hot dogs to the next level. Try making your own mustard, relish, and ketchup. You can also experiment by combining one or more flavors, such as tangy pickled onions or spicy sriracha mayo.
Add Butter
Some professional chefs recommend spreading a little melted butter on the hot dogs before taking them off the grill. After brushing the melted butter on the hot dogs, do the same to the bun and let them sit on the grill for a20 seconds before taking them out.
Conclusion
Grilling hot dogs is a classic American pastime that is great for family and friends gatherings. These tips and tricks can take your grilled hot dogs to the next level. Make sure you choose the best hot dogs made of natural ingredients. Knowing how long your hot dogs should be on the grill is also important. Don’t be skeptical of experimenting with different cooking methods and hot dogs, and have fun while doing it.
