How To Cook Hot Dogs In An Air Fryer

Hot dogs have long been a beloved staple of American cuisine, whether enjoyed at backyard barbecues, baseball games, or simply as a quick and easy meal, but did you know that you can make them in your air fryer?

Although many of us love to throw them on the grill there are many times when that just isn’t possible or desired. Whether it is because an unexpected thunderstorm has popped up right before dinner, or if you are craving a hot dog in the middle of winter, sometimes you need to find another cooking option.

Yes, you could fill a pot with water and boil them. Or if you have a pressure cooker you could certainly make them in there.

However, just like when cooking Bratwurst, if you are wanting the flavor to be as close to the grilled flavor as possible without using an actual grill, cook them in your air fryer. They will get nice and crispy on the outside, and be warm, tender and juicy on the inside.

It is a fantastic way to get your lunch or dinner on the table without a lot of effort. Simply put the dogs in the basket and let them cook.

Within 10 minutes you will have dinner ready and on the table. That is less time than it takes to preheat the grill!

Benefits of Air Frying Hot Dogs

Air frying is an incredibly convenient way to cook a variety of items. It requires less time than waiting for a grill or oven to preheat.

And you can have the hot dogs cooked and ready to eat in the amount of time that it takes water to boil on the stove. It is a fantastic way to get one or several hot dogs cooked at the same time.

Not to mention that clean up afterwards is a breeze!

Pork vs. All Beef Hot Dogs

When it comes to cooking pork hot dogs versus beef hot dogs in an air fryer, the cook time required may vary slightly due to differences in thickness and fat content. Below is a general guideline to help you achieve perfectly cooked hot dogs of both varieties.

Pork hot dogs have a slightly higher fat content when compared to beef hot dogs. In order for the fat to break down these hot dogs will need a longer cook time.

Beef Hot Dogs: Beef hot dogs are made from beef meat, fat, and various seasonings. They typically have a slightly lower fat content compared to pork hot dogs and thus will cook faster.

However, to cook the hot dogs in the air fryer the cooking method remains the same. The only difference is the amount of time required.

Cook Temperature & Time

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Make 2-3 slits in the top of each hot dog. Then place the hot dogs in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
3. Cook the hot dogs for approximately 6-8 minutes for beef hot dogs and 8-10 minutes for pork hot dogs. Be sure to flip them once halfway through the cooking time.
4. The hot dogs are cooked when they turn golden-brown in color and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
5. Depending on your desired level of browning and crispness you can certainly cook the hot dogs longer.

It’s important to note that individual air fryer models may have slight temperature variations. Therefore it is best to test this recipe with one hot dog to determine your preferred doneness.

Additionally, factors such as hot dog size and air fryer capacity can influence the cook time. Keep a close eye on the hot dogs as they cook to prevent overcooking or burning.

Experiment with different cook times and adjust according to your preference to achieve the perfect level of browning and texture for your air fryer hot dogs.

Air Fryer Hot Dog Variations:

Now that you have the basic technique down, let’s explore some delicious variations to make your air fryer hot dogs unique and delicious.

Cheese-Stuffed Hot Dogs: Slit each hot dog lengthwise and stuff it with your favorite cheese before wrapping it in bacon. This twist adds a delightful gooey surprise when you take a bite.

Pretzel-Bun Hot Dogs: Swap out regular buns for soft pretzel buns. The combination of the savory pretzel exterior and juicy hot dog creates an irresistible flavor contrast.

Jalapeño-Popper Hot Dogs: Spice things up by topping your air fryer hot dogs with cream cheese, sliced jalapeños, and shredded cheddar. The creamy and spicy elements add a delicious kick to the classic hot dog.

Chicago-Style Hot Dogs: Pay homage to the Windy City by loading up your hot dog with yellow mustard, diced onions, sweet pickle relish, tomato slices, pickled sport peppers, and a sprinkle of celery salt. This vibrant and tangy combination is a true crowd-pleaser. Just don’t forget the poppy seed buns!

Hawaiian Hot Dogs: Embrace a tropical twist by topping your hot dogs with grilled pineapple, teriyaki sauce, and a sprinkle of toasted coconut. The combination of sweet and savory flavors will transport you to an island paradise.

Whether you prefer a traditional All-American Hot Dog or want to experiment with different toppings and fillings, the ease and convenience of making them in the air fryer is hard to beat!

This cooking method allows you to get lunch or dinner on the table quickly and easily. With their crispy exteriors and juicy interiors, these hot dogs may become your new favorite!

Air Fryer Hot Dogs Recipe

*A printable recipe card is located at the bottom of this article which contains the specific measurements, temperatures and cook times. However, continue reading below to learn about more helpful tips about this specific recipe.

INGREDIENTS

• hot dogs
• hot dog buns

INSTRUCTIONS

Make one long slit or 2-3 small ones in the top of each hot dog. I have forgotten this step before and didn’t have any issues, but why risk them exploding?

Place the hot dogs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer temperature to 400°F and close the basket. Cook for 6-8 minutes for beef hot dogs and 8-10 minutes for pork hot dogs.

Open the air fryer and use tongs to remove the hot dogs. Place each hot dog in a hot dog bun and carefully place them back in the air fryer (optional step to toast the buns).

Cook for an additional 2 minutes at 400°F. Carefully remove the hot dogs and buns from the air fryer and add your condiments of choice. Serve warm.

Enjoy! Mary

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