11 Creative Hot Dog Recipes to Make for 4th of July
So delicious, you’ll skip the burgers!
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When it comes to 4th of July celebrations, fireworks may light up the sky—but hot dogs are what really light up the grill. There’s just something about the sizzle of a juicy frank, that perfectly toasted bun, and all those irresistible hot dog toppings that screams summer. Whether you’re hosting a big backyard bash or packing a picnic for the park, hot dogs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser for your 4th of July menu: easy to make, fun to dress up, and endlessly customizable.
Sure, the classic ketchup-and-mustard combo will always have a place at the table, but why stop there? Independence Day is the perfect excuse to get creative with your hot dog recipes and take your grill game to the next level. Think: chili cheese dogs piled high with melty goodness, Chicago-style dogs loaded with tangy pickles and sport peppers, BBQ hot dogs loaded with zesty slaw, and even franks wrapped in a pretzel bun. There’s no wrong way to do it. After all, this day is all about freedom!
So, browse this roundup packed with patriotic pups that will have your guests coming back for seconds (and thirds). From spicy to savory, sweet to smoky, these recipes are designed to impress while keeping things simple and cookout-friendly. Just don't forget to serve them with the best hot dog side dishes and festive desserts. They're so good, you'll want to skip the burgers!
Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs
Bring some sizzle to your celebrations with the ultimate grilling treat! This recipe elevates the classic favorite by wrapping savory hot dogs in crispy, flavorful bacon. Customize with bold toppings like jalapeños, pimento cheese, or classic ketchup and mustard.
Get the Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs recipe.
Chili Dogs
Combine the hearty flavor of homemade, spice-packed chili with your favorite grilled hot dogs for a messy, mouthwatering delight. Of course, you'll want to pile on the bold toppings like cheddar cheese, diced onions, or even jalapeños for an extra Americana feel.
Get Ree's Chili Dogs recipe.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
Celebrate Chicago-style with with iconic toppings: zesty mustard, vibrant relish, juicy tomatoes, crunchy pickle spears, spicy sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt. Serve in a steamed-soft poppy seed bun.
Get the Chicag0-Style Hot Dog recipe.
Pretzel Dogs
Give your 4th of July menu a twist—literally! These delicious dogs are wrapped in soft, golden-brown pretzel dough for a dreamy, doughy upgrade. Perfectly baked to chewy perfection, you'll serve them with mustard, cheese sauce, or even a classic ketchup dip.
Get the Pretzel Dogs recipe.
Air Fryer Hot Dog
Want to skip the grill? This go-to recipe is a game-changer, giving you juicy hot dogs with a charred exterior in just five minutes. No flipping required, but why not for that extra-crisp perfection?
Get the Air Fryer Hot Dog recipe.
Beer Brats
Just crack open a cold one to really take your 4th of July brats to the next level! Simmering bratwursts in light lager alongside onions and spices brings out incredible flavors, making each bite tender and juicy with a perfect snap.
Get the Beet Brats recipe.
BBQ Hot Dogs with Cilantro Slaw
The perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors in every bite, these franks are slathered with a smoky barbecue glaze and grilled before they're loaded with crisp, refreshing slaw made from zesty lime, fresh cilantro, and crunchy cabbage.
Get Ree's BBQ Hot Dogs with Cilantro Slaw recipe.
Homemade Corn Dogs
Here's a festive fairground favorite made easy! Instead of buns, opt for coating juicy hot dogs with a golden, crispy cornbread batter for a handheld food that’s equal parts fun and satisfying. When you're done, grab ketchup, mustard, or even queso for dipping.
Get the Homemade Corn Dogs recipe.
Chipotle Chili Dogs
Packed with bold flavors from a chipotle-adobo infused chili, these saucy dogs deliver a delicious kick. As if they couldn't get any better, they're also topped with all the fixings like melty cheddar cheese and finely chopped onions—all packed in toasted buns.
Get Ree's Chipotle Chili Dogs recipe.
French Onion Franks
Try these franks for a 4th of July with a fancy feel. Smothered in caramelized onions, gooey Gruyère cheese, and topped with crispy fried onions, they're a gourmet dream come true.
Get the French Onion Franks recipe.
Hot Dogs and Bratwurst with Sauerkraut and Relish
Perfect for the indecisive at your patriotic party, this option lets you serve up the best of both savory worlds. Pile on tangy sauerkraut, sweet pickle relish, and whatever other fixings your heart desires.
Get Ree's Hot Dogs and Bratwurst with Sauerkraut and Relish recipe.
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