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Perfect Ultimate Grilled Hot Dogs Recipe Easy Gourmet Toppings Ideas

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A simple yet gourmet grilled hot dog recipe featuring caramelized onions, spicy slaw, and tangy aioli, perfect for summer BBQs and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 high-quality beef or pork hot dogs
  • 12 soft but sturdy hot dog buns (brioche buns optional)
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrot
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • Salt to taste
  • Pickle slices or relish
  • Fresh chopped chives or parsley
  • Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Caramelize the onions: Heat 2 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add thinly sliced onions with a pinch of salt and 1 teaspoon brown sugar. Stir occasionally and cook for 20-25 minutes until soft and golden brown. Add water if onions start to stick. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the spicy slaw: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups shredded cabbage and 1/2 cup shredded carrot. In a small bowl, whisk 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon hot sauce, 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Pour dressing over cabbage mixture and toss well. Chill until serving.
  3. Make the tangy aioli: Mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, and 1 minced garlic clove in a small bowl. Season with salt. Refrigerate if making ahead.
  4. Preheat the grill: For charcoal, wait until coals are covered with white ash. For gas, set to medium-high heat.
  5. Grill the hot dogs: Place hot dogs perpendicular to grill grates. Cook 5-7 minutes, turning every couple of minutes until skin crisps and evenly charred. Avoid poking holes.
  6. Toast the buns: Split buns and place cut-side down on grill for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
  7. Assemble the hot dogs: Spread tangy aioli inside each bun. Add grilled hot dog, caramelized onions, spicy slaw, pickle slices, fresh herbs, and cheese if desired.
  8. Serve immediately while hot and fresh.

Notes

Avoid piercing hot dogs to keep juices inside. Caramelize onions low and slow to prevent burning. Toast buns lightly to prevent sogginess. Aioli can be made a day ahead. Adjust hot sauce in slaw to taste. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Butter or oil brushed on hot dogs before grilling adds richness and prevents sticking.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled hot dogs, summer BBQ, caramelized onions, spicy slaw, tangy aioli, gourmet hot dogs, easy hot dog recipe