The 6 Best Hot Dog Cooking Methods For All Of Your Summer BBQ Needs
I rounded up six ways to cook hot dogs to ensure that you understand all your options for cooking them this summer. Read below for the info you need, then try one (or all) versions for yourself. Watch out, Joey Chestnut—you've got some competition this summer!
Probably the most classic way to prepare hot dogs, the grill is also the superior cooking method, in my opinion. It's how we prepare hot dogs in most of our recipes, because the flavor and texture a grill imparts is just unbeatable. You can use an outdoor grill or a grill pan if you don't have access to one. Set your grill to medium heat, then cook the hot dogs until they are warmed through and grill marks appear. If you prefer more pronounced grill marks, leave 'em on until they're charred to your liking.
Boiling is a solid method for cooking hot dogs, especially if you don't have a grill and want some ASAP. We boil our hot dogs for our Chicago-style hot dogs, where the toppings are the main attraction. To prepare your dogs using this method, bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add your hot dogs and cook until they are warmed through, around 5 minutes.
What can't the air fryer do? It can whip up some incredible hot dogs, that's for sure. If you don't have a grill and want to keep cleaning to a minimum, this is a great option. Set your air fryer to 400°F, then space out your hot dogs in the basket, and cook until warmed through, around 4 minutes. This method is not only very easy with minimal cleanup, but it's one of the quickest options too!
While this might not be your new go-to method for preparing hot dogs, deep-frying is something everyone should try at some point. Also known as Ripper-style, these dogs get their name from Rutt's Hut in Clifton, NJ, inspired by the rips that happen in the casing when the hot dogs are fried. To make your dogs ripper-style at home, heat at least one cup of oil to 350°F in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Work in batches, frying the hot dogs for 2 to 5 minutes, turning them around every 20 seconds so they cook evenly. You're looking for them to be blistered and the casing to be split. Once done, transfer to a paper-towel-lined plate and serve.
Cooking hot dogs on the griddle may not be as popular as grilling or boiling, but it's a method worth trying if you have one. To cook your dogs on the griddle, preheat it to medium- or medium-high heat, then add butter or oil to the griddle. This isn't a necessary step, but it sure produces some delicious dogs with more flavor. Add your hot dogs to the griddle, turn occasionally, and cook until your desired doneness—anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes.
The microwave is never our favorite option, but it's a solid method if you need a hot dog fast, without using any other kitchen appliance. When microwaving, you've got two options: You can place it on a plate and cover it with a paper towel, or wrap it in a paper towel and place it directly in the microwave. Microwave until it's warmed through, around 40 to 60 seconds. Because we're using the microwave, the dogs may not be as evenly cooked as other methods, but in a pinch (like when you need to satisfy some hungry kids), the microwave works.
The only thing that's just as important as how you cook your hot dogs is how you top them. Go classic with mustard and ketchup, add some relish or sauerkraut for flair, or consult our list of the best ways to prepare your hot dogs to take them over the top. Happy dog season!
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