Air Fryer Hot Dogs

These Air Fryer Hot Dogs are about to be your new favorite way to cook hot dogs. The air fryer cooks them quickly and results in the perfect texture every, single time.

Okay, let’s be real. Hot dogs have never been hard to prepare. They’re just designed to be a simple meal. But what if I told you they could be even easier?

Thanks to your air fryer, they can and they taste so delicious!

Ingredient notes

Here is an overview of the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe. Scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom for quantities.

• Hot Dogs – Use your favorite variety. Keep in mind that different sizes will cook at different rates. I prefer all beef hot dogs e.g., Hebrew National or Nathans.
• Hot Dog Buns – Any hot dog buns will work! I usually buy precut buns to make it easier and make sure they work for the size of the hot dogs you’re using. My favorites are brioche buns.
• Condiments – Feel free to load your hot dogs up with any and all of your favorite toppings and condiments. Get creative with it!

How to make this recipe 

Detailed measurements and instructions can be found at the bottom of the page on the printable recipe card.

Whipping up some hot dogs in the air fryer is probably the simplest way to cook hot dogs. First, preheat the air fryer, then give it a few minutes to warm up.

Place the hot dogs into the air fryer basket or on the tray, then cook for 5-8 minutes. Turn once to make sure they cook evenly.

Transfer the hot dogs to the buns, then add them back into the air fryer. Cook for another minute to toast the buns, then put your favorite toppings on. So easy!

Expert tips for success

• Don’t forget to cut slits or prick the hot dogs with a fork. This eliminates the possibility that they explode in the air fryer and helps them cook more evenly. The slits can also look like grill marks! 
• Preheat the air fryer. We want it to be nice and hot before adding in the hot dogs for the best texture.
• Cook in a single layer. If the hot dogs are overlapping, they will steam rather than fry and the texture won’t be as good.
• Toast the buns with the hot dogs inside. The buns on their own are too light and can go flying around the air fryer.

Variations

• Classic: Keep it simple with a squeeze of ketchup and mustard and a layer of relish or pickles.
• Cheesy: When you toast the buns with the hot dogs, top each one off with a slice of your favorite cheese. Another option is to wait until you’re ready to serve, then drench them with your favorite nacho cheese sauce.
• Bacon-Wrapped: Wrap a slice of bacon around each hot dog before cooking, secure it with toothpicks, then fry for 8 minutes or until the bacon is crispy. 
• Chili Dogs: When you’re ready to serve, top your hot dogs off with a ladle-full of Instant Pot Chili.
• Veggie Dogs: Vegetarian or vegan? Swap the beef hot dogs out for your favorite meatless variety of hot dogs.

Recipe FAQs

Serve it with

The side dish possibilities for hot dogs are basically endless. Here are just a few of my favorites:

• Baked Potatoes
• Macaroni Salad
• Baked Beans
• French Fries or Tater Tots
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

More topping ideas

The hot dog toppings don’t stop there. There are tons of ways you can serve them. Get creative with it! 

Here are just a few more ideas:

• Onion – raw or crispy
• Slaw – this is my go-to slaw recipe
• BBQ sauce
• Bacon crumbles
• Mayonnaise
• Aioli
• Ranch dressing
• Hot sauce
• Tomatoes
• Jalapeño slices
• Sauerkraut

Leftovers

Air Fried hot dogs are best right away, but if you do have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. 

To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or back in the air fryer at 350ºF for 3-5 minutes.

More Air Fryer Recipes to Try

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