Introduction
Hot dogs are a classic summer BBQ food. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or tailgating at a ball game, juicy grilled hot dogs are always a crowd pleaser. With just a few simple steps, you can learn how to barbecue hot dogs to perfection.
Bbq hot dogs with ease by following this guide. We’ll walk through choosing the right hot dogs, prepping the grill, and cooking techniques to give you plump, lightly charred franks. With these pro tips, you’ll be a hot dog barbecue pro in no time.
Choosing the Right Hot Dogs
The first step to great grilled hot dogs is selecting the right dogs. Here are some things to look for:
- All-beef or high-quality meat: Choose hot dogs made from 100% beef or quality meats like beef, pork, and poultry. These taste best and hold up on the grill. Avoid hot dogs with mystery meats.
- Natural casings: Natural casings give hot dogs that classic “snap” when you bite into them. Look for dogs labeled “natural casing” on the package.
- Size: Regular hot dogs are perfect for grilling. Opt for standard sizes like full-length 8-10 inch dogs. Skip thin or jumbo dogs, which can dry out on the grill.
- Low or no nitrates: Check the label and choose dogs with no added nitrates or nitrites when possible. Uncured hot dogs offer great flavor.
Popular excellent-quality grilling dogs include Hebrew National, Nathan’s Famous, and Wellshire Farms.
Setting Up the Grill
The right grill setup ensures hot dogs cook up plump and juicy:
- Gas or charcoal: Both gas and charcoal grills work well. Make sure charcoal grills are ready with an even bed of medium ash-covered coals.
- Temperature: Heat your grill to medium heat, around 350-450°F. This prevents burnt spots while thoroughly cooking the hot dogs.
- Grates: Make sure grates are clean. Lightly oil them to prevent sticking.
Grilling Techniques
With your dogs and grill prepped, it’s time to barbecue. Here are tips for grilling hot dogs to perfection:
- Direct heat: Cook hot dogs over direct heat. Avoid using a cooler part of the grill.
- Rotating: Turn the hot dogs a quarter turn every 2-3 minutes to prevent uneven cooking.
- Charring: Let the hot dogs get nicely charred on the outside. The char will add great flavor.
- Times: Cook 4-5 minutes per side for plump, juicy hot dogs with a good char.
- Splits: Avoid splits and bursts by not overcooking. Use a thermometer and remove dogs at 160°F.
- Buns: Toast buns on the grill in the last 1-2 minutes for extra flavor.
Serving Grilled Hot Dogs
Your hot dogs are ready to come off the grill. Finish them with fun toppings:
- Condiments: Ketchup, mustard, relish, onions, and sauerkraut are classic hot dog toppings. Get creative!
- Chili or cheese: For next-level dogs, top with chili, nacho cheese, or melted cheddar.
- Vegetables: Grilled veggies like peppers, tomatoes, or onions make tasty toppings.
- Crunch: Add crunch with pickles, crispy fried onions, or chow-chow.
With these simple tips, you can master how to barbecue flavorful hot dogs on your grill or at your next cookout. Grill up the ultimate summer hot dogs in your backyard. Enjoy!
FAQs About Grilling Hot Dogs
How long does it take to grill hot dogs?
It takes 4-5 minutes per side, so about 8-10 minutes total, to grill hot dogs at medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side at high heat. Always use a thermometer and remove dogs at 160°F to prevent overcooking.
Should you boil hot dogs before grilling?
It’s not necessary to boil hot dogs before grilling them. Grilling raw dogs directly will give you the best caramelized, charred exterior. Boiling first can make the casing tough.
What is the best way to cook hot dogs on a grill?
The best way is over direct medium heat. Cook 4-5 minutes per side while rotating. Let the hot dogs get nicely charred but remove at 160°F before they split. Avoid indirect heat which steams dogs.
Should you grill hot dogs on low or high heat?
Medium heat around 350-450°F is ideal for grilling hot dogs. High heat above 500°F can cause burnt spots and dried out dogs. Low heat under 300°F will steam rather than grill the hot dogs.
How can you prevent hot dogs from bursting on the grill?
Rotate them regularly and don’t overcook. Use a meat thermometer to take them off at 160°F. Poking with a fork can lead to bursts. Choose quality natural casing dogs if possible.
Conclusion
Grilling hot dogs is an easy way to add flavor to a BBQ staple. With high-quality all-beef dogs, a hot grill, and direct medium heat, you can make perfectly plump and charred hot dogs. Rotate the dogs as they cook and watch closely to prevent overcooking. Top with classic condiments or get creative with chili, cheese, and veggies. In just 10 minutes, you’ll have the ultimate cookout hot dogs. Fire up the grill, invite some friends over, and enjoy your backyard franks!