15 Ways to Make a Boring Hot Dog Delicious

Chili dogs

“These deluxe chili dogs are a surefire hit at family functions and tailgates. Adults and children alike love the cheesy chili sauce, and the toppings are fun!” —Marion Lowery, Medford, Oregon. Try pairing your hot dog with one of these summer foods that are much healthier than you thought.

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Corn Dogs

“Prepare corn dogs at home just like you’d get at the fair. Both kids and grown-ups will love this hearty corn dog batter.” —Ruby Williams, Bogalusa, Louisiana

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Hot dog pizza

“My girls love it when I make this mash-up pizza with hot dogs and chili. It’s a marvelous way to use up leftover chili.” —Jennifer Stowell, Smithville, Missouri

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Corn dog casserole

“Reminiscent of traditional corn dogs, this fun main dish really hits the spot on fall days. It’s perfect for the football parties my husband and I often host. It tastes especially good right from the oven.” —Marcy Suzanne Olipane, Belleville, Illinois

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BBQ hot dog pack

“For these nifty foil packs, small hands make quick work of topping potato wedges with a hot dog, onions, and cheese.” —Kelly Westphal, Wind Lake, Wisconsin. 

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Dogs in a blanket

“Not only do my grandchildren love these cheese-and-bacon filled hot dogs, but they enjoy helping put the meal together, too. It’s the perfect solution to a last-minute lunch.” —Lyletta Searle, Morgan, Utah

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Rhode Island wieners

“Many Rhode Islanders spell wiener with an “ei” and serve theirs “all the way” with meat sauce, mustard, onion and a sprinkle of celery salt.” —Karen Barros, Bristol, Rhode Island

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Sea creatures

“Your hungry kids will squirm with delight when they get a look at these remarkable smiley sea creatures perched on a bed of seaweed.” —Kerry Tittle, Little Rock, Arkansas

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Chicago dog wraps

“I decided to give a Chicago-style dog a healthy twist for my family. Our kids love it. You can use other fresh toppings to please just about anyone.” —Gregg May, Columbus, Ohio. If you don’t feel like cooking your own hot dogs, head over to Costco and pick one up for $1.50. This is the real reason they’re so cheap.

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Beef for days

“For years, people have told me I make the best hot dog chili out there. It’s timeless, it’s family friendly, and I carry the recipe with me because people ask for it.” —Vicki Boyd, Mechanicsville, Virginia

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Jersey dogs

“I grew up in northern New Jersey, where hot dogs with grilled potatoes were born. It’s a combo you’ll love.” —Suzanne Banfield, Basking Ridge, New Jersey

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Hot dog pie

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Corn dog muffins

“I wanted to riff on hot dogs, so I made corn dog muffins. I added jalapenos to this “kid-friendly” recipe and won my husband over, too.” —Becky Tarala, Palm Coast, Florida. Follow these rules to have a healthy grilling season.

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Cheesy dogs

“Kids and dads alike will dive right into this hearty, comforting dish. With a crispy cheese topping on a warm cornbread crust, this recipe is a keeper.” —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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Mango-pineapple dogs

“For parties, we shrink down lots of foods to slider size, including these quick hot dogs. Pile on the easy but irresistible fruit salsa for a burst of fresh flavor.” —Carole Resnick, Cleveland, Ohio. Next, read about the foods that you should never, ever eat raw (hot dogs are one of them).

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