Somehow, grilling season just doesn’t feel real until you’ve grilled up your first hot dog. That satisfying snap from the first bite into a perfectly grilled dog is the quickest way to summer bliss (at least for us).
But why eat a frank plain? And why limit yourself to the usual toppings like mustard and relish? Getting creative with your toppings takes this summer classic from tasty to seriously amazing. Here are 12 delicious topping combos you’ll want to add to your grilling arsenal.
Don’t knock it ’til you try it — apples and hot dogs are the combo you never knew you needed. This slaw gets extra zing from green apples and sour cream, plus some flavorful heat thanks to chili powder and chopped jalapeño. Make it at your next barbecue and watch guests oooh and aaah.
We’re all about this lighter version of the classic chili dog. Instead of topping with ground beef, simmer up some baked beans, then add chopped white onion, cheddar, and a drizzle of mustard.
Adding a drizzle of bourbon to sauteed onions creates a caramel-y glaze that instantly transforms plain old hot dogs into a gourmet meal. Add bacon crumbles and jalapeño slices for a seriously yummy hot dog you’ll make again and again.
Don’t be turned off by the homemade hoisin sauce. You can easily sub in the store-bought kind. But do make the quick-pickled veggies if you have time — they’re super easy and add a nice vinegary crunch to these Vietnamese-inspired dogs.
People have a lot of strong feelings about subbing carrots for hot dogs, but come on, guys, vegetarians need to eat, too. And with these creative toppings (avocado, salsa, and cashew sour cream? Yum!), you won’t even miss the meat.
If you’ve never chased a bite of baked beans with a scoop of chilled coleslaw, you’re missing out. Add it to a hot dog with pickled okra, and you’ve got a mouthwatering match made in heaven.
Imagine everything you love about spicy, cheesy, buttery corn on a stick, but on a hot dog. Mind. blown.
If you’re as obsessed with everything bagel seasoning (EBS) as we are, then get ready for another creative way to add it to your meal plan. Top dogs with sauerkraut, curry mustard, and a healthy sprinkle of EBS for a flavor combo reminiscent of your local deli.
Pineapple and teriyaki come together for an epic combo that’s sweet, savory, and oh so delicious.
A staple street food in Phoenix, Arizona, this hot dog is as delish as it gets. Top grilled franks with cheese sauce, pinto beans, guac, pico, bacon, and a drizzle of cilantro sauce. And maybe grab a few extra napkins.
Top dogs with feta cheese, tomatoes, olives, and oil and vinegar, plus a handful of mixed greens, for a lighter bite worthy of an opa!
