Randy Chandler
A cheese dog is a perennial favourite, especially for kids. While hot dogs are tasty on their own, adding cheese and baking them in the oven takes them to the next level. The melted cheese, toasted bun, and gooey texture are a beautiful, simple combination. You can also add various toppings to elevate the dish further, such as onions, relish, mustard, or ketchup. For a fancier option, you can make a Texas Chili cheese dog, which involves making a thick and chunky chili to pile onto the hot dogs. This dish is sure to impress and satisfy both kids and adults alike.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Cheese | Cheddar, Mozzarella, American Cheese |
| Type of Hot Dog | All-beef hot dogs, Hebrew National, Nathan's, Corn Dogs |
| Toppings | Mustard, Onions, Pickle, Relish, Ketchup, Parsley, Potato Chips, French Fries, Salad |
| Cooking Method | Baking, Grilling, Frying |
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What You'll Learn
- Choose your cheese: cheddar, mozzarella, American, or Monterey Jack
- Prepare your hot dog: sear, bake, or fry
- Add toppings: onions, jalapeños, mustard, relish, or chilli
- Melting the cheese: in the oven, on the stovetop, or in a deep fryer
- Serving suggestions: steamed veggies, French fries, or a fresh salad
Choose your cheese: cheddar, mozzarella, American, or Monterey Jack
When it comes to choosing a cheese for your cheese dogs, there are several options to consider: cheddar, mozzarella, American, or Monterey Jack. Each of these cheeses can add a distinct flavour and texture to your hot dogs, so here's a breakdown of each option to help you decide:
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese is a popular choice for cheese dogs, especially when paired with chilli. Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully on top of the hot dog, adding a creamy texture and a sharp, tangy flavour. It is also used in corn dogs, where cubes of cheddar are alternated with slices of hot dogs on a stick, creating a delicious combination of cheese and sausage in each bite. For an extra cheesy experience, you can even dip your corn dog in a cheddar cheese sauce.
Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella cheese is another option for corn dogs, offering a stretchy, stringy texture when melted. Combining mozzarella with cheddar cheese in corn dogs can create a delicious blend of flavours and textures.
American Cheese
American cheese is a classic choice for hot dogs. Slices of American cheese can be placed on the bun before adding the hot dog, creating a gooey, creamy texture that complements the sausage. American cheese also works well with chilli dogs, providing a smooth and slightly salty flavour.
Monterey Jack Cheese
While not explicitly mentioned in the sources, Monterey Jack cheese is a semi-soft cheese with a mild flavour that could be a good choice for those who want their cheese to complement rather than overpower the other flavours in the hot dog.
In conclusion, when choosing your cheese, consider the flavour profile and texture you want to achieve. Cheddar offers a sharp, tangy flavour and melts well, making it great for chilli dogs and corn dogs. Mozzarella provides a stretchy, stringy texture, perfect for those who love the drama of cheese pulling apart as they bite into their corn dog. American cheese has a creamy texture and mild flavour, making it a versatile option for both plain and chilli cheese dogs. Finally, Monterey Jack is a mild, semi-soft cheese that can complement the flavours of your hot dog without overwhelming them.
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Prepare your hot dog: sear, bake, or fry
There are several ways to prepare your hot dog, each with its own unique results. Here are some of the most popular methods:
Sear
To sear your hot dog, you will need a skillet or frying pan. First, add about half an inch of water to the pan and heat it over medium-high heat until it starts to simmer. Place a few hot dogs in the pan—be careful not to overcrowd the pan—and cover it for about 2-3 minutes to let them steam. If the water dries up before the time is up, simply add a little more. After steaming, remove the lid and let the water evaporate. Now, use tongs to roll the hot dogs around the pan for a few minutes until they are browned on all sides. If you want a crispy bun to go with your frank, turn off the heat and place the buns face down in the leftover juices for about 45 seconds. For a decadent flavour, swap out the water for butter or a few tablespoons of oil.
Bake
Baking is a mess-free method that is great for cooking multiple hot dogs at once. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminium foil. Place your hot dogs on the sheet and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until you hear a sizzle. If you want a crispier exterior, leave them in for a few minutes longer. For an even fancier version, you can make chili cheese dogs by topping your hot dogs with shredded cheese and baking them until the cheese melts.
Fry
Frying your hot dogs will give them a nice, crispy exterior. Simply add about half an inch of water, butter, or oil to a skillet or frying pan and heat it over medium-high heat. Place your hot dogs in the pan and roll them frequently until they are browned on all sides.
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Add toppings: onions, jalapeños, mustard, relish, or chilli
When it comes to toppings, the sky's the limit! You can add toppings before or after baking your cheese dog, depending on the texture you prefer.
If you're a fan of the classics, go for diced or chopped white onions, which add a nice crunch to your cheese dog. You can also try grilling sliced onions into the bun for a softer texture. For a tangy kick, add some pickled jalapeños to the side of your hot dog. If you're making a chilli cheese dog, you can dice some jalapeños and add them to your chilli mixture.
Now, let's talk condiments. Mustard is a popular choice, and you can spread it directly onto the bun or serve it as a dip on the side. If you're feeling adventurous, try making a cheese sauce for dipping by melting shredded cheddar cheese with butter, flour, and milk. For a tangy twist, top your cheese dog with relish or make your own fancy Italian relish called giardiniera by chopping up a mix of dill pickles, spicy pickled cauliflower, and banana peppers.
With these toppings, you can take your cheese dog to the next level and customise it to your taste preferences!
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Melting the cheese: in the oven, on the stovetop, or in a deep fryer
There are several ways to melt cheese for a cheese dog, including in the oven, on the stovetop, or in a deep fryer. Each method has its own advantages and will produce slightly different results.
Melting Cheese in the Oven
This is a great option if you want to melt the cheese directly on top of the hot dog. Simply assemble your hot dog by placing it in a bun and topping it with shredded cheese. You can also add other toppings such as onions, relish, or giardiniera. Bake the hot dogs in the oven at 350°F for about 6-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bun is toasted. This method is simple and convenient, and it results in a crispy, gooey cheese topping.
Melting Cheese on the Stovetop
Using a stovetop to melt cheese for a cheese dog is a quick and easy method. You can use a skillet or saucepan to melt butter or oil over medium heat. Once melted, stir in flour and milk, then slowly add shredded cheese until it is fully melted. This creates a cheese sauce that can be poured over your hot dog. This method is ideal for a quick melt and can also be used to make a more complex cheese sauce with additional ingredients.
Melting Cheese in a Deep Fryer
Deep frying is a unique way to melt cheese for a cheese dog, resulting in a crispy and golden brown finish. Chop the hot dogs into equal-sized pieces and do the same with your chosen cheese, such as cheddar. Alternate the hot dog and cheese pieces on a stick, then dip the entire combination into a corn dog batter. Deep fry the battered creation until it reaches a golden brown colour. This method is perfect for creating a crunchy texture and a visually appealing dish.
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Serving suggestions: steamed veggies, French fries, or a fresh salad
When it comes to serving your cheese dogs, there are several options to consider, including steamed veggies, French fries, or a fresh salad. Each of these options can enhance your dining experience and provide a well-rounded meal.
If you opt for steamed veggies, you can choose from a variety of vegetables that complement the flavours of the cheese dog. Some suggestions include steamed broccoli, carrots, or asparagus. You can season the veggies with herbs and spices to add extra flavour. Steamed veggies offer a healthy and nutritious option to balance the richness of the cheese dog.
French fries are an obvious choice when it comes to serving them with hot dogs, and the same goes for cheese dogs. For a traditional take, opt for classic French fries with ketchup or other dipping sauces. If you want to add a spicy kick to your meal, consider seasoning the fries with cayenne pepper and chili powder. You can also offer sweet potato fries as a healthier alternative, baked in the oven with paprika and garlic powder for a flavourful twist.
A fresh salad can also be a refreshing accompaniment to cheese dogs. Consider a simple salad with greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette dressing. For a unique touch, add watermelon chunks to the salad for a sweet and unexpected flavour. If you're serving a crowd, a salad bar or buffet with various toppings and dressings can be a great way to accommodate different tastes and dietary preferences.
Additionally, you can explore other serving suggestions such as corn on the cob, deep-fried pickles, or baked beans with ground beef and bacon for a heartier meal. These sides can be tailored to your preferences and can make your cheese dog dinner a delightful and satisfying experience.
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