Grilled Cheese Dogs

Grilled Cheese Dogs are a fun and delicious twist on the classic hot dog, combining the comfort of a grilled cheese sandwich with the savory goodness of a hot dog. Perfect for a quick meal or backyard cookout, these cheese-stuffed dogs are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Flattened buns are slathered with a garlic and onion butter, then stuffed with melty cheddar cheese and seared hot dogs. Top them off with fresh scallions for a delightful crunch, and you’ve got a meal that’s as tasty as it is easy to prepare. Serve these hot off the skillet for the best flavor and texture!

Grilled Cheese Dogs are a fun and delicious twist on the classic hot dog, combining the comfort of a grilled cheese sandwich with the savory goodness of a hot dog. Perfect for a quick meal or a backyard cookout, these cheese-stuffed dogs are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make this indulgent treat.

INGREDIENTS

• Hot Dog Buns: 4 buns, flattened to create a crispy, golden crust when grilled.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons, softened and mixed with garlic and onion powder for added flavor.
• Garlic Powder: 1/4 teaspoon, adding a hint of savory garlic flavor to the butter.
• Onion Powder: 1/4 teaspoon, enhancing the flavor of the butter mixture with a subtle onion taste.
• Hot Dogs: 4 hot dogs, split lengthwise but not all the way through, ready to be grilled to perfection.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 3 cups, providing a rich and melty filling for the grilled cheese dogs.
• Scallions: 4 scallions, sliced thinly to add a fresh and mild onion flavor to the final dish.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Prepare the Buns

1. Flatten the hot dog buns using a rolling pin, ensuring they are evenly pressed. This will help create a crispy texture when grilled.
2. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of softened butter with 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder. Stir until well mixed.
3. Spread the butter mixture evenly on the outside of each flattened bun, making sure to cover all surfaces for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Hot Dogs

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the split hot dogs to the skillet.
2. Sear the hot dogs, turning occasionally, until they are charred on all sides. This should take about 2 minutes per side.
3. Remove the hot dogs from the skillet and set them aside while you prepare the buns.

Step 3: Assemble the Grilled Cheese Dogs

1. Place one of the buttered buns, butter side down, into the skillet.
2. Top the bun with 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, followed by one of the seared hot dogs. Add a little more cheddar on top of the hot dog, and sprinkle with a portion of the sliced scallions.
3. Cover the skillet and cook over medium heat until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
4. Once the cheese has melted, use a spatula to close the bun around the hot dog, pressing gently to ensure the cheese and scallions stay inside.

Step 4: Repeat and Serve

1. Repeat the assembly and cooking process with the remaining buns, hot dogs, cheese, and scallions to create 4 grilled cheese dogs in total.
2. Serve the grilled cheese dogs immediately while they are hot and gooey, and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures.

Serving and Storage Tips

Grilled Cheese Dogs are best served hot and fresh off the skillet, with the cheese still gooey and the buns crispy. These are perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a fun snack during a game day or cookout. Serve them with a side of fries, chips, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

If you have leftovers, allow the Grilled Cheese Dogs to cool completely before wrapping them in foil or placing them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F until heated through, although the buns may not be as crispy as when freshly made.

Helpful Notes

This recipe is quite versatile and can be easily customized. You can swap out the cheddar for your favorite type of cheese, like mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a blend of different cheeses for extra flavor. For added crunch, consider toasting the buns slightly before assembling the grilled cheese dogs.

If you want to take these grilled cheese dogs to the next level, try adding additional toppings like crispy bacon, sautéed onions, or a drizzle of your favorite barbecue sauce. You can also experiment with different seasonings in the butter mixture, such as smoked paprika or cayenne pepper, for an extra kick.

Tips from well-known chefs

Chef Bobby Flay suggests using a cast iron skillet for grilling the hot dogs and buns, as it helps achieve an even sear and maintains a consistent heat.

Chef Gordon Ramsay recommends lightly toasting the buns in the skillet before adding the cheese and hot dogs to enhance the texture and flavor of the dish.

Chef Jamie Oliver advises adding a pinch of fresh herbs, like chopped parsley or chives, to the butter mixture for a burst of freshness in each bite.