Cheese-Stuffed Hot Dogs With Spicy Onions – Rachael Ray

The first time I tried a gourmet hot dog, it was at a summer street fair – a far cry from the simple boiled franks of my childhood. The vendor piled on toppings I’d never dreamed of putting on a hot dog, and while initially skeptical, one bite transported me. The combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors was a revelation. It completely redefined what a hot dog could be. The memory always makes me smile, and this cheese-stuffed hot dog with spicy onions recipe reminds me of that exact food epiphany.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 4 hot dogs
• Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 4 franks
• 2 tablespoons McCormick grill seasoning
• 2 slices sharp cheddar cheese, cut into 1/2-inch strips
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 small onions, sliced 1/4-inch thick
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon finely chopped chipotle chile in adobo, plus 1 teaspoon adobo sauce
• Salt
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 4 hot dog buns

Equipment Needed

• Plastic bag
• Baking sheet
• Large skillet

Instructions

1. Preheat the broiler. Ensure your oven rack is positioned so that the hot dogs will be close enough to the broiler for melting the cheese and toasting the buns but not so close that they burn.

2. Carefully make a slit lengthwise down each frank. Be sure to cut deep enough to create a pocket for the cheese, but be very careful not to cut all the way through the hot dog. You want it to remain intact.

3. Place the grill seasoning and franks in a plastic bag. Shake vigorously to coat the franks evenly with the seasoning. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.

4. Place the seasoned franks on a baking sheet. Stuff each frank with 2 or 3 strips of sharp cheddar cheese. The cheese should be nestled snugly inside the slit you created.

5. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until softened and golden brown, which should take about 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

6. Add the brown sugar, finely chopped chipotle chile in adobo, adobo sauce, and ½ teaspoon salt to the skillet with the softened onions. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves completely and the sauce thickens slightly, about 2 minutes. This creates a sweet and spicy caramelized onion topping.

7. Brush the insides of the hot dog buns with the melted butter. Place the buttered buns, open-faced, on the same baking sheet as the cheese-stuffed franks.

8. Broil the hot dogs and buns until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the buns are nicely toasted, approximately 3 to 5 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning, as broiler temperatures can vary.

9. Assemble the hot dogs by placing each cheese-stuffed frank into a toasted bun. Top generously with the caramelized onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Cheese Variation: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper jack or a smoked gouda would add an extra layer of flavor complexity.
• Make-Ahead Onions: The spicy caramelized onions can be made a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat before serving. This will save you time on the day you’re making the hot dogs.
• Broiler Control: Keep a very close eye on the hot dogs while they are under the broiler. The cheese can go from perfectly melted to burnt very quickly.
• Even Cooking: For even cooking of the onions, make sure they are sliced uniformly. Thicker slices will take longer to cook and may not caramelize properly.
• Bun Toasting: For extra flavor, try toasting the buns on a grill pan or skillet instead of broiling. This adds a nice char and smoky taste.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these cheese-stuffed hot dogs immediately after assembling to enjoy them at their best. The melted cheese and warm, spicy onions are most appealing when freshly prepared.

Leftover hot dogs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can microwave them (though the buns may become slightly soggy), bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or pan-fry them until heated. The onions can also be reheated separately in a skillet or microwave.

Do not leave these hot dogs at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth. Freezing is not recommended, as it will affect the texture of the buns and cheese.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	475.7 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	291 g	61%
Total Fat	32.4 g	49%
Saturated Fat	13.3 g	66%
Cholesterol	53.8 mg	17%
Sodium	860.1 mg	35%
Total Carbohydrate	33.3 g	11%
Dietary Fiber	1.5 g	6%
Sugars	12.5 g	N/A
Protein	13.1 g	26%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Level: Adjust the amount of chipotle chile in adobo based on your spice preference. Use only the adobo sauce for a milder flavor, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Cheese Options: Substitute the sharp cheddar with Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a vegan cheese alternative for a dairy-free version.
• Bun Alternatives: Use pretzel buns, brioche buns, or gluten-free buns to suit different dietary needs and preferences.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the franks with veggie dogs made from soy or other plant-based proteins.
• Regional Twist: Add a drizzle of your favorite BBQ sauce or a scoop of coleslaw for a regional variation.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I grill these hot dogs instead of broiling them?
A: Absolutely! Grilling adds a smoky flavor that complements the cheese and spicy onions. Just ensure the cheese melts and the hot dog is heated through.

Q: What if I don’t have chipotle chiles in adobo?
A: You can substitute with a pinch of smoked paprika and a dash of your favorite hot sauce to achieve a similar smoky and spicy flavor profile.

Q: Can I use a different type of onion?
A: Yes, you can use yellow onions or even red onions. Yellow onions are sweeter and will caramelize nicely, while red onions will add a sharper bite.

Q: How do I prevent the hot dog buns from getting soggy under the broiler?
A: Toasting the buns before adding the hot dogs and cheese helps create a barrier against moisture. Also, watch them closely to prevent over-broiling.

Q: Can I add other toppings besides the spicy onions?
A: Of course! Feel free to add toppings like pickled jalapeños, relish, mustard, or even a drizzle of sriracha mayo for extra flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This cheese-stuffed hot dog recipe, with its delightful kick from the spicy onions, is a fun and flavorful twist on a classic comfort food. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses, toppings, and spices to create your own signature hot dog creation. Gather your friends and family, fire up the grill (or broiler!), and enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make meal. Share your culinary creations and feedback – happy cooking!