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Savory Grilled Hot Dogs with Sweet Caramelized Onions

savory grilled hot dogs - featured image

A quick and easy recipe that elevates classic grilled hot dogs with slow-cooked sweet caramelized onions, perfect for casual gatherings and cookouts.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 to 6 high-quality all-beef hot dogs
  • 4 to 6 hot dog buns (white or whole wheat)
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Pinch of salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional toppings: mustard, ketchup, pickles, shredded cheese

Instructions

  1. Peel and thinly slice 2 large yellow onions about 1/8-inch thick.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 2 tablespoons unsalted butter. Let the butter melt completely without browning.
  3. Add the sliced onions to the pan, stirring to coat with butter and oil. Spread evenly and sprinkle a pinch of salt.
  4. Cook onions over low heat, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking or burning. After 20 minutes, sprinkle 1 tablespoon brown sugar evenly over onions and continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes until deep golden-brown and silky, about 35 minutes total.
  5. Season caramelized onions with freshly ground black pepper, stir, then remove from heat and set aside.
  6. Preheat grill to medium-high (about 375°F or 190°C). Clean and oil grates.
  7. Grill hot dogs for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally with tongs until grill marks form and hot dogs are heated through.
  8. During the last 2 minutes, place buns cut-side down on the grill to toast lightly.
  9. Assemble hot dogs in toasted buns and top generously with caramelized onions and optional condiments.

Notes

Keep heat low and stir onions every 5 minutes to avoid burning. Use tongs to turn hot dogs to keep them juicy. Toast buns to prevent sogginess. Brown sugar is optional but recommended for deeper sweetness. For gluten-free or dairy-free versions, use appropriate buns and substitute butter with coconut oil or plant-based spread.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled hot dogs, caramelized onions, easy hot dog recipe, backyard barbecue, summer cookout, savory hot dogs, sweet onions