Crispy Cheesy Baked Hot Dogs Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

For the best cheese pull, use a combination of cheddar and mozzarella. Cheddar provides sharp flavor, while mozzarella delivers that signature stretch.

Shred the cheese yourself for optimal melting, and let it come to room temperature before broiling to ensure even melting. If you want extra crispiness, brush the outside of the buns with butter as well.

To prevent the cheese from sticking to the baking sheet, use a good quality aluminum foil and lightly grease it if needed. You can also line the sheet with parchment paper, but foil is more durable under high heat.

For a more decadent version, add a drizzle of ranch dressing or a sprinkle of chopped chives after broiling, but keep the recipe simple for the classic experience.

Variations

• Spicy Jalapeño: Add sliced jalapeños on top of the cheese before broiling for a spicy kick. Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar to amp up the heat even more.
• Bacon Cheddar: Sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon over the cheese before broiling. The smoky, salty bacon pairs perfectly with the melted cheddar and garlic butter.
• BBQ Pulled Pork: Skip the hot dogs and use shredded BBQ pulled pork in the buns. Top with cheddar and mozzarella, then broil until bubbly. Serve with extra BBQ sauce.
• Veggie Deluxe: Use vegetarian hot dogs and add sautéed bell peppers and onions on top of the cheese before broiling. Use a dairy-free cheese alternative for a vegan version.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Freezer

Freeze assembled but unbaked hot dogs on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before broiling.

Reheat

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving to keep buns crisp.

Leftover hot dogs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 to 7 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the buns soggy.

You can prepare the garlic butter up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator. You can also assemble the hot dogs with cheese and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before broiling. When ready to serve, simply broil as directed, adding a minute or two to the cooking time if the hot dogs are cold.

Serving ideas

Serve these crispy cheesy hot dogs hot from the oven, with the cheese still bubbling and stretchy. They are perfect for casual dinners, game-day spreads, or backyard parties.

Pair them with a simple green salad, coleslaw, or potato chips for a satisfying meal. The rich, cheesy flavor pairs well with a cold beer or a sparkling lemonade.

For a fun presentation, arrange the hot dogs on a large platter and let everyone grab their own. Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for color, if desired.

These hot dogs are best enjoyed immediately, but they can be kept warm in a low oven for up to 30 minutes. They are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, whether served as a main dish or a hearty snack.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Crispy Cheesy Baked Hot Dogs

Prep 10 minCook 12 minTotal 22 minServes 3

Ingredients

• 3 hot dogs
• 3 hot dog buns
• 3 tbsp butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic. Stir well to blend. Brush the inside of each hot dog bun generously with the garlic butter, making sure to coat the cut surfaces completely.
2. Place one hot dog into each buttered bun. Press the hot dog down slightly so it sits snugly in the bun. Arrange the filled buns on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, leaving space between them.
3. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the hot dogs and the exposed bun edges. Press the cheese lightly so it adheres to the hot dogs and buns.
4. Preheat the oven broiler. Place the baking sheet under the broiler, about 6 inches from the heat. Broil for 3 to 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown in spots. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Contains: gluten, milk

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

520

Protein

22 g

Carbohydrates

30 g

Fat

34 g

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.