The Best Chicago-Style Hot Dog Recipe: A Flavor Explosion
Discover the Chicago-Style Hot Dog Recipe, a nostalgic summer treat with juicy beef hot dogs and vibrant toppings.
Equipment
- Skillet
- spatula
Ingredients
For the Hot Dogs
- 4 pieces All-Beef Hot Dogs (preferably bun-length) Feel free to substitute with vegetarian hot dogs for a meat-free option.
For the Buns
- 4 pieces Split Poppy Seed Hot Dog Buns In a pinch, any soft sandwich bun can be used instead.
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Olive oil can replace butter for a lighter option.
For the Toppings
- 4 pieces Dill Pickle Spears Other pickles work too, but steer clear of sweet varieties.
- 2 tablespoons Sweet Pickle Relish Chopped pickles mixed with a touch of sugar can be a substitute.
- 4 teaspoons Yellow Mustard No substitutions necessary; this is a must-have!
- 1 small Small White Onion (small-diced) Green onions or shallots can be used for a milder touch.
- 1 small Small Tomato (halved and thickly sliced) No substitute suggested here!
- 4-8 pieces Sport Peppers Try jalapeños if you're in the mood for more spice.
- 1 teaspoon Celery Salt Regular salt with a dash of dried celery flakes can work as a substitute.
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Melt Butter: Begin by melting unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat until it’s bubbly, enticingly fragrant, and ready for toasting the buns.
- Toast Buns: Gently flatten the split poppy seed hot dog buns and place them in the skillet, toasting until they are lightly golden on the outside. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Hot Dogs: Increase the heat to medium-high and add a bit more butter. Add the all-beef hot dogs and cook them until they are beautifully browned and crispy all over, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Assemble: Place a hot dog in each toasted bun, ensuring it’s snug and ready for toppings.
- Top Generously: Start layering your Chicago Dog by adding yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, small-diced onions, thick tomato slices, dill pickle spears, and sport peppers, creating a colorful, flavorful masterpiece.
- Finish with Flair: Sprinkle a pinch of celery salt over the top to finish the dish, and serve your Chicago Dogs immediately while they’re hot and bursting with flavor.
Notes
Optional: Add crispy bacon bits on top for an indulgent twist! Expert tips include grilling for flavor, flattening the buns for better toasting, and using quality ingredients.