Marinated Grilled Hot Dogs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love these Marinated Grilled Hot Dogs because the marinade infuses the hot dogs with bold, layered flavors—sweet, tangy, and a hint of spice—that set them apart from the ordinary. Grilling adds a perfect char and smoky aroma, making them juicy and irresistible. They’re quick to prepare, ideal for backyard barbecues, game days, or easy weeknight meals.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ½ cup chili sauce
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1½ tablespoons mustard
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ⅛ teaspoon pepper
• 8 hot dogs
• 8 hot dog buns

Directions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together chili sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Marinate the hot dogs: Place hot dogs in a shallow dish or resealable bag and pour marinade over them. Ensure all hot dogs are coated. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill: Heat the grill to medium-high.
4. Grill the hot dogs: Remove hot dogs from marinade, shaking off excess. Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until nicely charred and heated through.
5. Toast the buns: Lightly toast hot dog buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes until warm and slightly crisp.
6. Serve: Place grilled hot dogs in buns and add your favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 8 servings
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Marinating time: 30 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: Approximately 50 minutes

Variations

• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for heat.
• Use different types of mustard such as Dijon or spicy brown for flavor variation.
• Top hot dogs with grilled onions, relish, or shredded cheese.
• Substitute chili sauce with barbecue sauce for a smokier profile.
• Try using bratwurst or veggie dogs instead of classic hot dogs.

Storage/reheating

• Store leftover grilled hot dogs and buns separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat hot dogs in a skillet or microwave; reheat buns briefly on the grill or toaster.
• Leftover marinade should not be reused unless boiled thoroughly.

FAQs

Can I marinate hot dogs overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight intensifies the flavors, but 30 minutes is sufficient for a tasty result.

What type of chili sauce should I use?

A mild or medium chili sauce works best to balance flavor without overwhelming heat.

Can I cook the hot dogs indoors?

Yes, you can grill them on a stovetop grill pan or broil in the oven.

How do I prevent the hot dogs from drying out?

Don’t overcook; grill just until heated through and slightly charred.

Can I freeze marinated hot dogs?

It’s best to freeze raw hot dogs separately; marinated hot dogs should be cooked fresh.

Are these hot dogs gluten-free?

Check the labels of hot dogs, buns, and condiments to ensure gluten-free status.

What toppings go well with these hot dogs?

Classic toppings like ketchup, mustard, relish, onions, and sauerkraut are great choices.

Can I use this marinade for sausages?

Yes, the marinade works well with sausages and bratwurst.

How do I store leftover marinade?

Discard leftover marinade unless it has been boiled for at least 5 minutes.

Can I use a different type of bun?

Yes, brioche, pretzel, or whole wheat buns are tasty alternatives.

Conclusion

Marinated Grilled Hot Dogs bring a delicious twist to a classic comfort food, combining a tangy, savory marinade with the smoky goodness of the grill. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, these hot dogs make a perfect addition to any barbecue or casual meal. Serve them up with your favorite toppings and sides for a crowd-pleasing dish everyone will enjoy.

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