40 Easy Hot Dog Recipes You Have to Try Before Summer's Over

Krista Marshall

July 29, 2022 at 11:28 AM·8 min read

With grocery store inflation prices everywhere these days, is your wallet feeling even more pinched than usual? Are you trying to stay on budget, but still feed your family a delicious meal every night? Well, two little words are coming to the rescue: hot dogs!

When was the last time you bought a package of hot dogs? I always have a few packages in the freezer for last-minute meals or dinner inspiration. Sure we all love a great dog, hot off the grill, but considering all the things you can do with them, they are a great bargain!

From simple meals that will have the kids' approval to terrific dishes to share at gatherings, any time of year, your next package of hot dog buns won't know what hit it!

With these 40 easy hot dog recipes, you can plan suppers for busy weeknights or an entertaining menu that is sure to be a hit.

Related: 60 Kid-Friendly Game Day Snacks

Easy Hot Dog Recipe Ideas

A simple package of hot dogs can go way beyond the bun! You can add toppings, sauces or even use them in a great casserole or slow-cooker dinner. One reason why I always have an extra package in the freezer is so I can cook them as is, or create something brand new.

Once you see some of the genius ways these recipes use hot dogs, you won't believe you waited so long to think outside the bun.

Is It Better To Boil Or Fry Hot Dogs?

My personal opinion is hot dogs should never be boiled. Not only does it add extra moisture, but it also takes all the flavor away, leaving behind a sad dog. My favorite way to cook them is actually grilling, but when that can't happen, pan frying is a great substitute. You will still get a brown, crispy casing—which let's face it—is the best part!

Let's not forget you can also cook hot dogs in the slow cooker, Instant Pot and air fryer. And of course, the summertime classic way, over the campfire flames is always a great choice.

Here's a great mom hack: Whenever I'm cooking hot dogs, I always make extra. I wrap them individually in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze in a plastic bag. Then, when the little man needs a quick lunch or supper, I pop one in the microwave (still frozen) and it's ready to eat in about a minute.

What Else Can You Do With Hot Dogs?

There is so much you can do with a package of hot dogs, just let your imagination take over! Casseroles, kabobs, slow-cooker meals and yes, even fake-out barbecue (keep scrolling for that one) can all be achieved with something as simple as hot dogs. Easy hot dog recipes don't stop at ketchup and mustard.

Best Hot Dog Recipes

From the simple chili cheese dog and beans and weenies of our childhood, to a more sophisticated dog, I made sure this recipe roundup has a little something for everyone—young and old alike!

You can put a little worldly twist on your next hot dog supper with these Korean Corn Dog, Korean Slaw Dog or Japanese Hot Dog dinners. Or, combine two all-American classics with the Philly Cheese Steak Hot Dogs or BLT Hot Dogs. The kids will flip for my Pretzel Dogs too, which are just as good as anything out of the mall food court. And I love the idea of the Hot Dog Burnt Ends—great barbecue flavor, but way less money!

Related: The Best Air Fryer Hot Dogs

Don't let this time of year can wreak havoc on your budget. Instead, add a few of these awesome hot dog recipes to your weekly meal plan to keep extra dollars in your wallet!