Hot Dogs [The Ballpark Bite Remix]

Premium nitrate-free hot dogs grilled to perfection with beautiful char marks and served on golden-toasted buns. This is the classic American ballpark experience elevated with clean ingredients and gourmet toppings that deliver nostalgic flavors without compromising on quality or health.

Makes

Serves 4

Total Time

15 min (8 min prep)

Ingredients

For Hot Dogs:
4 nitrate-free beef hot dogs (1 lb/450g) – grass-fed preferred
4 whole grain or cassava flour hot dog buns (280g)
2 tbsp (30g) grass-fed butter, softened
1 tsp (5ml) olive oil for grilling

Classic Toppings:
2 tbsp (30ml) yellow mustard
2 tbsp (30ml) organic ketchup
2 tbsp (30g) sweet pickle relish
1 medium yellow onion, diced (150g)
1/2 cup (75g) sauerkraut, drained
2 pickled jalapeño slices (optional)

Make it Good For The Gut (Optional)

Replace regular sauerkraut with raw fermented sauerkraut for maximum probiotic benefits and enhanced digestive support. Add fermented pickle relish instead of regular for additional beneficial bacteria and improved flavor complexity. Top with cultured onions by quick-fermenting diced onions in salt water for 24 hours at room temperature. Include a dollop of probiotic mustard made with apple cider vinegar and raw honey for digestive enzymes. Serve with fermented jalapeño slices for heat plus gut-healthy probiotics that support immune function.

Remix Options

Protein Alternatives: Try turkey dogs, chicken apple sausages, plant-based sausages, or bratwurst for different flavors and dietary preferences. Bun Substitutes: Use butter lettuce wraps for keto, sweet potato “buns,” cauliflower rolls, or pretzel buns for unique textures and flavors. Gourmet Toppings: Elevate with caramelized onions, avocado slices, bacon bits, cheese sauce, or grilled peppers for restaurant-quality experience. International Styles: Try Chicago-style with sport peppers and celery salt, Mexican with jalapeños and cilantro, or German with curry ketchup and crispy onions. Cooking Methods: Pan-fry in cast iron, steam for tender texture, or smoke on low heat for 30 minutes at 225°F (107°C) for BBQ flavor. Healthy Swaps: Use coconut oil instead of butter, sugar-free ketchup, and whole grain mustard for cleaner ingredients without sacrificing taste. Party Variations: Make mini corn dogs, hot dog sliders, or chili cheese dogs for entertaining and game day celebrations.

Good To Know

Hot Dog Quality: Choose nitrate-free varieties made from grass-fed beef or organic turkey to avoid harmful preservatives and chemicals commonly found in conventional processed meats. Cooking Temperature: Grill at medium heat (350-375°F/177-191°C) to prevent splitting while achieving perfect char marks and even heating throughout. Bun Selection: Cassava flour buns provide grain-free option with traditional texture, while whole grain offers fiber and nutrients for sustained energy. Scoring Technique: Make shallow diagonal cuts in hot dogs before grilling to prevent bursting and create more surface area for caramelization and flavor development. Timing Tips: Toast buns cut-side down for 1-2 minutes until golden, and warm toppings slightly for enhanced flavor integration and optimal serving temperature. Storage Guidelines: Refrigerate unused hot dogs up to 5 days or freeze up to 2 months; cooked hot dogs keep 3-4 days refrigerated. Safety Notes: Heat hot dogs to 165°F (74°C) internal temperature for food safety, especially important for pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals. Make-Ahead Tips: Pre-grill hot dogs and store covered; reheat gently in low oven or microwave to maintain texture and prevent overcooking. Serving Ideas: Pair with sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or fresh fruit salad for balanced meal with complementary flavors and textures.

steps

Preheat:

Preheat grill to medium heat (350-375°F/177-191°C) or heat large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Clean grill grates and lightly oil to prevent sticking.

Score:

Make shallow diagonal cuts 1/4-inch deep along length of each hot dog to prevent splitting and increase surface area for better caramelization and flavor development.

Grill:

Place hot dogs on grill and cook 8-10 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until heated through and beautifully charred with golden-brown marks on all sides.

Prep:

While hot dogs cook, split buns lengthwise without cutting completely through. Brush cut sides generously with softened butter for golden toasting and enhanced flavor.

Toast:

Place buns cut-side down on grill or in toaster for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden and crispy, creating perfect contrast to tender hot dogs.

Assemble:

Place grilled hot dogs in toasted buns and add desired toppings in layers: mustard, ketchup, relish, diced onions, sauerkraut, and jalapeños for classic ballpark experience.

Serve:

Serve immediately while hot dogs are warm and buns are crispy. Provide extra condiments on the side for customization and optimal flavor enjoyment.