Hot dogs are the epitome of summer comfort food. Whether at a ballpark, a family cookout, or a simple weeknight dinner, the humble hot dog holds a special place in many people’s hearts. But why settle for the ordinary when you can elevate the classic hot dog into something extraordinary? The Classic Loaded Hot Dogs with BBQ Mayo Sauce is the recipe that takes this beloved snack to the next level.
Imagine a perfectly grilled hot dog nestled between two slices of soft white bread, topped with a slice of sharp Cheddar cheese that melts over the sausage, a tangy yet sweet barbecue mayo sauce, and all the crunch and zest from mustard, relish, and onions. It’s a perfect combination of flavors and textures that make each bite a savory delight. This isn’t just a hot dog; it’s an experience that you can recreate in the comfort of your home.
Whether you’re serving it at a weekend BBQ, a casual family gathering, or just craving a quick, indulgent meal, these loaded hot dogs are sure to be a hit with everyone. They are simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor, proving that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the most timeless.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Hot Dogs:
- 8 (1-ounce) slices white bread (such as Wonder Bread®)
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 4 thin slices sharp Cheddar cheese, halved
- 8 beef hot dogs (such as Oscar Mayer® Classic Wieners Hot Dogs)
- 4 tablespoons minced yellow onion
- 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons sweet pickle relish
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt (such as Lawry’s®)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Barbecue Mayo Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, mayonnaise, and seasoned salt. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended. Set aside. This creamy, tangy sauce will add a rich depth of flavor to your hot dogs.
Step 2: Grill the Hot Dogs
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a stovetop, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat.
- Place the hot dogs on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are evenly browned and heated through. You want a slight char on the outside for that smoky flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
- While the hot dogs are grilling, lightly toast the slices of white bread on the grill or in a toaster. You don’t want them too crispy—just enough to give them a bit of texture to support the fillings. Alternatively, you can use soft buns, but white bread adds a nostalgic touch to this dish.
Step 4: Assemble the Hot Dogs
- Place each toasted slice of bread on a serving plate.
- Spread 1/2 tablespoon of yellow mustard on each slice of bread, making sure it’s evenly coated.
- Once the hot dogs are grilled to your liking, place one hot dog on each slice of bread.
- Lay two halves of sharp Cheddar cheese on top of each hot dog, allowing the heat of the dog to begin melting the cheese.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
- Spoon 1 tablespoon of the prepared barbecue mayo sauce over the cheese-covered hot dog.
- Top with 1/2 tablespoon of minced yellow onion and a teaspoon of sweet pickle relish for the perfect balance of tanginess and crunch.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Your loaded hot dogs are now ready to be devoured! Serve them with your favorite side dish, whether it’s potato chips, coleslaw, or grilled veggies.
Prep Time:
- 10 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 10-15 minutes
Total Time:
- 20-25 minutes
Servings:
- 8 servings
Calories (Per Hot Dog):
- 350 kcal
Why This Recipe is Timeless
This Classic Loaded Hot Dog with BBQ Mayo Sauce recipe is timeless for many reasons. Hot dogs themselves have been a staple of American cuisine for over a century, and while we’ve seen many trendy takes on the hot dog, the core combination of a grilled sausage with toppings like cheese, mustard, and relish is something that will never go out of style. However, what sets this recipe apart is the addition of the creamy barbecue mayo sauce, which adds a level of sophistication and a hint of smokiness that elevates this humble dish to a gourmet level.
The balance of tangy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors from the mustard, relish, and onions pairs beautifully with the smokiness of the grilled hot dog and the richness of the Cheddar cheese. The barbecue mayo sauce brings everything together with its creamy texture and sharp contrast to the other toppings.
Not only does this recipe provide a modern twist on the traditional hot dog, but it also celebrates simplicity. It doesn’t require hard-to-find ingredients or hours in the kitchen, making it a great option for busy weeknights or a weekend cookout with friends. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a quick dinner, these loaded hot dogs are bound to please.
Nutrition Facts (Per Hot Dog)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp Cheddar is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even blue cheese for a unique twist.
2. Can I make these hot dogs ahead of time?
While it’s best to serve these hot dogs fresh for the best texture, you can grill the hot dogs in advance and keep them in the fridge until ready to serve. Reheat them in the microwave or on a grill before assembling.
3. Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes! While white bread adds a nostalgic touch, you can use hot dog buns or even whole wheat bread if you prefer a healthier option.
4. How spicy is this dish?
The level of spiciness is very mild. If you want to add some heat, you can include a few sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the BBQ mayo sauce.
Tips for Success
- Toasting the Bread: Be careful not to over-toast the bread, as it should be just crispy enough to hold the toppings without being too hard to bite into.
- Grill Marks on the Hot Dog: For extra flavor, try grilling your hot dogs on a charcoal grill for that distinct smoky taste. If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan on the stovetop works perfectly.
- Make It a Meal: Serve these hot dogs with a side of homemade potato salad or coleslaw for a complete meal.
- Vary the Relish: Try different kinds of relish, like spicy or dill, for a change in flavor profile.
Storage Tips
- Leftovers: If you have any leftover hot dogs (though it’s unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the grill.
- Freezing: If you want to freeze the prepared hot dogs, wrap each one tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Store them in a freezer-safe bag and they’ll last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, reheat from frozen in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
In the world of comfort food, the hot dog is truly a classic. By adding a few simple ingredients and some creative toppings, you can easily take a standard hot dog to the next level. The Classic Loaded Hot Dog with BBQ Mayo Sauce is the perfect balance of flavors, with creamy barbecue mayo, sharp Cheddar cheese, tangy mustard, and crunchy pickles that all come together in one satisfying bite.
This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or simply enjoying a weeknight dinner. It combines the ease of a quick meal with the satisfaction of a gourmet twist on a childhood favorite. In a world that often seeks new trends and complex flavors, sometimes the timeless classics are all we need. So go ahead, indulge in these loaded hot dogs and create a memory that will last a lifetime.