Save
When you want a hot dog that is anything but ordinary this recipe is a real crowd-pleaser Juicy grilled hot dogs nestled in soft buns are loaded with a fiery crunchy slaw and showered with crisp onions for a quick dinner or a game-day treat with personality I pull out this combo every summer barbecue and there are never leftovers
The first time I served these my friends demanded the slaw recipe before they left Now my family requests them for every backyard get-together
Ingredients
- Hot dogs: choose your favorite classic or beef for the best snap and flavor
- Hot dog buns: go for soft bakery buns they soak up the sauce just right
- Mayonnaise: brings the creamy texture to the slaw choose real mayo for richness
- Sriracha: delivers the punchy heat if you want less spice use less
- Lime juice: lifts the slaw with a fresh citrus pop pick a juicy ripe lime
- Shredded cabbage: adds crunch and keeps the slaw crisp look for pre-shredded to save time
- Red onion: offers a sweet sharp bite choose a firm onion with glossy skin
- Cilantro: gives a herbal note use fresh leaves for the best fragrance
- Crispy fried onions: add irresistible crunch you can find these in the salad toppings aisle
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill or Pan:
- Set your grill or skillet over medium-high heat Give it a couple minutes to get hot so you can hear an immediate sizzle when you add the hot dogs
- Cook the Hot Dogs:
- Place the hot dogs on the hot surface Roll them every couple of minutes for even browning You want a nice blistered exterior and a juicy interior This usually takes about eight minutes
- Mix the Spicy Slaw Dressing:
- In a mixing bowl stir together mayonnaise sriracha and lime juice until blended taste and adjust for your heat preference
- Build the Slaw:
- Add shredded cabbage chopped red onion and fresh cilantro into the same bowl Toss everything so the vegetables are coated with dressing Letting it sit for five minutes draws out extra flavor
- Assemble the Hot Dogs:
- Nestle each grilled hot dog into a bun Spoon a generous heap of spicy slaw on top
- Add the Crunch:
- Sprinkle crispy fried onions over the slaw so each bite gets a burst of crunch and oniony flavor
- Serve Right Away:
- Hot dogs with slaw and onions are best enjoyed immediately while everything is at its freshest and crunchiest
My favorite part is piling on extra crispy onions The crunch is addictive and makes each bite so fun Once my sister and I ended up in a laughing fit racing to see who could stack their hot dog the highest
Storage Tips
Leftover spicy slaw keeps well in the fridge for up to two days in an airtight container Crispy onions should be kept sealed at room temperature to stay crunchy Assembled hot dogs are best eaten fresh so only build as many as you plan to eat right away
Ingredient Substitutions
If sriracha is unavailable use another hot sauce or a pinch of chili flakes Greek yogurt works in place of mayonnaise for a lighter slaw Swap cabbage with coleslaw mix or finely shredded brussels sprouts if you want more color
Serving Suggestions
Pair with classic french fries or kettle chips A cold sparkling lemonade or crisp beer goes perfectly For a party lay out extra toppings like pickled jalapenos or diced tomatoes so guests can build their own creations
Cultural and Historical Notes
The tradition of loading hot dogs with slaw and spicy sauces is rooted in American cookouts with influences from Korean and Vietnamese street food Spicy mayo and crispy onions bring a global twist that livens up the familiar hot dog
Seasonal Adaptations
Using fresh local cabbage in summer makes the slaw even crunchier Add roasted corn or pickled carrots in late summer for extra flavor For a fall tailgate use smoked chili sauce for an even deeper kick
Success Stories
When I brought these to a neighborhood potluck they stole the show The spicy slaw even converted hot dog skeptics into fans My cousin started making these for her kids school lunches and now it is the most requested sandwich in the rotation
Freezer Meal Conversion
While you cannot freeze the assembled hot dogs you can grill a batch of hot dogs ahead and freeze them wrapped tight Once thawed just reheat and finish with fresh spicy slaw and crispy onions for a nearly instant treat
You will wow a crowd with these fiery loaded hot dogs They are sure to become a barbecue favorite
Common Recipe Questions
- → How spicy is the slaw for these hot dogs?
The slaw has a moderate heat from sriracha, balanced by mayonnaise and lime. Adjust sriracha to taste.
- → Can this be made without cilantro?
Yes, simply omit cilantro or substitute with parsley for a milder herb flavor in the slaw.
- → What type of buns work best?
Classic, soft hot dog buns hold the toppings well, but brioche buns add a sweet, rich touch.
- → Can I use store-bought crispy onions?
Store-bought crispy fried onions are convenient and create a great crunch for the topping.
- → Is the slaw prepared fresh or ahead of time?
Prepare the slaw fresh for best texture, but it can be chilled briefly before serving if needed.