If you're looking for a tasty, easy-to-make meal that everyone will love, this baked hot dog recipe is perfect. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a savory dish that’s ideal for a casual lunch, a quick dinner, or even a gathering with friends and family. The combination of crispy bread, tomato sauce, sausage, and melted cheese makes for an irresistible treat that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Arrange the 4 hot dog buns in a baking dish. Make cuts along the top of each bun without separating the halves completely. This will help the filling fit better and give the buns a crispy texture.
In a bowl, combine the melted butter with fresh parsley or chives and the minced garlic. This mixture will add a flavorful and aromatic touch to the buns.
Using a spoon or brush, generously spread the butter and garlic mixture over the buns. Make sure the mixture gets into the cuts you made to ensure an even distribution of flavor.
Place the buns in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. The goal is to make the buns slightly crispy and allow them to absorb the flavors of the butter and garlic.
After the first 15 minutes, remove the buns from the oven and add mozzarella cheese to the cuts you made. This will create a creamy and flavorful base for the rest of the ingredients.
Spread a layer of tomato sauce over the mozzarella cheese. Make sure to distribute it evenly so each bite has a balanced flavor.
Slice the sausage into rounds and place them over the tomato sauce. The sausage adds a classic hot dog flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Drizzle a bit more tomato sauce over the sausage. This helps keep the dish moist and adds additional flavor.
Top with more mozzarella cheese. This will melt and create a delicious, golden layer on top.
Return the buns to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden.
Once out of the oven, sprinkle a little more fresh parsley or chives on top. This adds a fresh and colorful finishing touch.
Your baked hot dogs are now ready to be served! They are delicious on their own or paired with a light salad and a side of crispy fries.
For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a few slices of jalapeño or pepperoni between the mozzarella and sausage. This will introduce a bit of spice and a more intense flavor to your dish. Additionally, if you prefer a richer cheese topping, mix mozzarella with some grated Parmesan for an even more decadent finish.
This baked hot dog recipe combines simplicity with deliciousness. With an uncomplicated preparation and ingredients that yield a fantastic result, it’s an excellent choice for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner, a quick lunch, or a special event. The crispiness of the buns, the melted cheese, and the savory toppings make this dish a true delight that everyone will enjoy. Try this recipe and discover how a classic can be reinvented in a tasty and practical way. Enjoy your meal!