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Flavorful Firecracker Hot Dogs Recipe with Spicy Slaw and Creamy Mayo

firecracker hot dogs - featured image

A quick and easy recipe that transforms classic hot dogs with a spicy slaw and creamy garlic-lime mayo, perfect for backyard barbecues or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 all-beef hot dogs
  • 8 soft hot dog buns, lightly toasted
  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 1 medium carrot, shredded
  • 1 small jalapeño, finely chopped
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 clove garlic, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spicy Slaw: In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded green and red cabbage, shredded carrot, finely chopped jalapeño, and thinly sliced red bell pepper. Toss gently to mix.
  2. Make the Dressing for Slaw: In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and black pepper until honey dissolves. Pour over the cabbage mixture and toss until evenly coated. Set aside to marinate.
  3. Whip the Creamy Mayo: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, minced garlic, lime juice, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate until serving.
  4. Cook the Hot Dogs: Preheat grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook hot dogs, turning occasionally, until charred in spots and heated through, about 8-10 minutes.
  5. Toast the Buns: Lightly toast hot dog buns on grill or in toaster oven until golden brown and slightly crispy, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Assemble the Firecracker Hot Dogs: Spread a generous layer of creamy mayo inside each bun. Place cooked hot dog in bun, then top with a heaping spoonful of spicy slaw. Optionally, drizzle extra mayo on top.
  7. Serve Immediately: Enjoy while buns are warm and slaw is crisp and tangy.

Notes

If slaw is too wet after marinating, drain excess liquid before serving. Let mayo chill ahead to meld flavors. Adjust jalapeño and cayenne for preferred spice level. Use vegan mayo or cashew cream for dairy-free option. Toast buns for added crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot dogs, spicy slaw, creamy mayo, backyard barbecue, quick dinner, easy recipe, firecracker hot dogs