Dressed-Up Hot Dogs — Weekend Cookout
This summer, Food Network’s Grilling Central is packed with recipes for the entire family’s taste buds, boasting the best in burgers, dogs, chicken and more all season long. But with so many recipes, where do you start? Each weekend, FN Dish is giving you a complete menu that is stress-free, and this weekend’s spread features dressed-up hot dogs.
Ketchup and mustard may be two of the most traditional hot dog condiments, but you can surely dress up the everyday dog with deliciously creative twists on toppings. Like burgers and grilled chicken, hot dogs are blank canvases that can showcase seemingly any flavors you like or ingredients you have on hand. Try thinking of ingredient combinations you know work well together and using your favorite meals as inspiration to develop a next-level hot dog, like the ones featured below.
Showcasing the timeless pair of chili and cheese, Food Network Magazine's top-rated Chipotle Chili Cheese Dogs (pictured above) are full of bold, smoky flavors. The star element of this dog is the bold chili, featuring crispy sauteed bacon, cumin, meaty pinto beans and tomatoes. Once it's thick and rich, spoon the chili atop snappy grilled hot dogs, then finish with shredded pepper Jack cheese, cool sour cream and scallions. Since this recipe calls for footlong hot dogs instead of ballpark-style dogs, it's best to use hoagie rolls for buns. These hefty loaves will support the size of the hot dog and the weight of the chili; plus, they boast heftier dough than traditional hot dog buns.
If you appreciate a platter of nachos, then Bobby's Nacho Dog (pictured right) is a must-try. He prepares a spread of classic nacho toppings like cilantro-laced guacamole, tomato salsa, cheddar cheese and jalapenos, then features his offerings all atop grilled dogs in toasted hot dog buns. This recipe works well with beef, turkey or chicken dogs alike, so choose the variety your family likes best.
