Hot dogs are a classic crowd-pleaser, perfect for summer cookouts, game day gatherings, or simple weeknight dinners. But have you ever tried making them in a slow cooker? This unconventional method yields juicy, flavorful hot dogs with minimal effort. With just one ingredient – hot dogs – and your trusty slow cooker, you can whip up a batch of perfectly cooked franks that are sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings. Get ready to revolutionize the way you enjoy this beloved comfort food with our Slow Cooker Hot Dogs recipe!
Ingredients:
- 60 hot dogs, or however many fit in your slow cooker
Instructions:
- Prep the Slow Cooker: Begin by ensuring your slow cooker is clean and ready for use. Depending on the size of your slow cooker and the number of hot dogs you’re cooking, you may need to adjust the quantity accordingly.
- Arrange the Hot Dogs: Place the hot dogs in the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer and ensuring they are not overcrowded. You want them to have enough space to cook evenly and absorb the flavors.
- Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low heat. Let the hot dogs simmer gently for 3-4 hours, allowing them to heat through and develop a juicy texture.
- Serve: Once the hot dogs are heated through and tender, they are ready to be served. Use tongs to remove the hot dogs from the slow cooker and place them in buns. Serve with your favorite condiments and toppings.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Flavor: Enhance the flavor of your hot dogs by adding sliced onions, bell peppers, or sauerkraut to the slow cooker along with the hot dogs. These ingredients will infuse the hot dogs with additional flavor as they cook.
- Customize Toppings: Set up a hot dog bar with an assortment of toppings such as mustard, ketchup, relish, diced onions, shredded cheese, chili, and jalapeños. Let everyone customize their hot dogs to their liking.
- Grill Before Serving: For a smoky charred flavor, you can briefly grill the hot dogs on a barbecue or indoor grill before serving. This step adds a delicious grilled taste and texture to the hot dogs.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: If you’re following a keto diet, you can enjoy hot dogs as part of your meal plan. Opt for high-quality hot dogs made with minimal additives and fillers. Serve them in lettuce wraps instead of buns to keep the meal low in carbs.
- Low-Carb Twist: To make this dish even lower in carbs, choose hot dogs that are labeled as “uncured” or “no added nitrates/nitrites.” These options typically contain fewer additives and are a healthier choice overall.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use any type of hot dogs for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use your favorite type of hot dogs for this recipe, whether they’re beef, pork, chicken, or vegetarian. Choose high-quality hot dogs for the best flavor and texture.
Q: Do I need to add water or any liquid to the slow cooker? A: No, you do not need to add any liquid to the slow cooker when cooking hot dogs. The hot dogs will release their own juices as they cook, resulting in tender and flavorful franks.
Q: How long can I keep the hot dogs warm in the slow cooker? A: You can keep the hot dogs warm in the slow cooker for up to 2-3 hours after they have finished cooking. Simply set the slow cooker to the “warm” setting to maintain the temperature until ready to serve.
Q: Can I cook other foods in the slow cooker along with the hot dogs? A: While you can cook other foods in the slow cooker simultaneously, it’s important to ensure that they have similar cooking times and temperature requirements to the hot dogs. Avoid overcrowding the slow cooker to allow for proper airflow and even cooking.
Say goodbye to the hassle of grilling or boiling hot dogs and hello to the convenience of Slow Cooker Hot Dogs! With just one ingredient and minimal prep time, you can enjoy juicy, flavorful franks that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, feeding a crowd, or simply craving a quick and easy meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, dust off your slow cooker, stock up on hot dogs, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this fuss-free dish that delivers big on taste!
