Classic Juicy Grilled Hot Dogs
A simple and delicious recipe for perfectly grilled hot dogs with a juicy snap and smoky char, ideal for summer cookouts and gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 high-quality all-beef hot dogs
- 8 soft, fresh hot dog buns (white, whole wheat, or brioche)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Yellow mustard, for topping
- Ketchup, classic or spicy, for topping
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- Sweet or dill relish (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to season onions
- Optional toppings: sauerkraut, shredded cheddar cheese, jalapeños, chili
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F).
- Score each hot dog lengthwise with shallow diagonal cuts about 1/4-inch deep.
- Brush each hot dog lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking and keep moist.
- Lightly brush the insides of the buns with olive oil.
- Finely dice the yellow onion and toss with a pinch of salt and pepper; set aside.
- Grill the hot dogs perpendicular to the grill grates for 4-5 minutes per side, turning frequently until nicely charred and juicy.
- In the last 2 minutes of grilling, place the buns cut side down on the grill until golden and slightly crispy.
- Assemble each hot dog in a toasted bun and top with mustard, ketchup, seasoned onions, relish, and any optional toppings.
- Serve immediately while hot and juicy.
Notes
Keep grill at medium-high heat to avoid burning and bursting hot dogs. Score hot dogs before grilling to prevent splitting. Oil grill grates or hot dogs to prevent sticking. Toast buns briefly at the end for texture. Let hot dogs rest for a minute after grilling to redistribute juices. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Plant-based hot dogs can be used for vegan options.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 hot dog with bun
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 11
Keywords: grilled hot dogs, summer cookout, BBQ, classic hot dogs, juicy hot dogs, easy hot dog recipe