Learn how to boil hot dogs – this is seriously the easiest way to make the perfect dog! Use this quick cooking method the next time you need to feed a crowd!

Boiled hot dog held by tongs over a pot of hot dogs.

Boiling hot dogs is the ultimate party trick! It is the best way to cook a large number of hot dogs for a group. When I was a youth leader at summer camp, this was an easy way to make a juicy dog for each of the kids.

This cooking method is fast, foolproof, and makes the most tender, juicy hot dogs you’ve ever had. Whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a quick lunch, this method is here to save the day.

Perfect for kids, teens, and adults alike, this no-fuss recipe will have you wondering why you ever cooked hot dogs any other way. You’ll be the MVP of mealtime in no time.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Boiling hot dogs is the ultimate shortcut to serving up flavorful, plump, juicy dogs in no time. Whether you’re hosting a child’s birthday party or feeding a group of hungry teens, this is the easiest way to get the job done. Plus, it’s versatile: you can keep your hot dogs warm in the water until you’re ready to serve.

There is a good reason why food cart entrepreneurs boil their hot dogs! It’s the best way to cook a large number of dogs while ensuring everyone’s happy and well-fed.

Must-Try Hot Dog Varieties

Be sure to check out these 20+ MUST TRY Hot Dog Recipes too!

White dutch oven full of boiled hot dogs.

My teenagers like this method for cooking hot dogs the best too. It just seems to be the fastest and easiest way for them to whip up a batch for themselves.

Bonus points that I feel pretty confident as a mom that they can boil water without burning anything!

How to Boil a Hot Dog

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Supplies

Harvest hot dogs in packaging on a white counter.

Ingredients

All-beef hot dogs – Go for high-quality ones with a natural casing for that classic, snappy bite. We love Harvest all-beef wieners.
Water – Simple but essential! Two quarts are enough to cook a dozen hot dogs to perfection.

Hot dogs from Harvest are each packaged with an individual protective wrapper that needs to be removed before cooking. Some other brands come with the casing on, too, so be sure to remove hot dog skins before cooking.

Water in a white dutch oven boiling on a black stove top.

Instructions

1. Fill a large pot of water and set it on medium-high heat. Bring the water to a rolling boil.

White dutch oven full of hot dogs boiling on the stove top.

2. Gently place the hot dogs into the boiling water. No need to overcrowd; they need their space to cook evenly.

3. Cook on a full boil for 4-6 minutes. The hot dogs will plump up and float to the top of the water when done.

4. Use tongs to remove each dog, letting any excess water drip off.

5. Serve warm in a hot dog bun and dress them up with your favorite toppings!

Hot dogs topped with sauerkraut, sauteed onion and dijon mustard on a plate.

The hard part for me is choosing which hot dog toppings to use! Below are some great options that can easily be found in grocery stores.

There so many different ways to achieve the ideal hot dog that it really just comes down to personal preference.

Some of Our Favorite Toppings

Nacho cheese sauce
Hot dog sauce
Classic ketchup and mustard
Hot mustard
BBQ sauce
Sauteed onions
Shredded cheddar cheese

Each quart of water will cook about six hot dogs. This hot dog recipe is for a dozen, but you could easily adjust the water to hot dog ratio to make more. It’s a great way to make a large batch of hot dogs.

Tips and Tricks

If you’re making a big batch, keep the water at a medium heat after boiling to maintain the dogs’ juicy texture without overcooking.
Don’t boil for too long—overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
Add a pinch of salt or a splash of vegetable broth to the water for extra flavor.
For a crispier exterior, toss the boiled hot dogs on a grill or in a skillet for 1-2 minutes.
Leftover hot dogs may be stored in a microwave-safe bowl or an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat in the microwave for 30 seconds for a quick meal.

How Long Do You Cook Hot Dogs?

Hot dogs may be cooked in a slow cooker on high for 2 hours or low for 3-4 hours.
When boiling hot dogs, cook them for 4-6 minutes. Learn how to boil hot dogs in this post.
Hot dogs can be cooked on the BBQ grill for 7-10 minutes.
Smoked hot dogs take 60 minutes to cook when smoked at 225 degrees F.
Baked hot dogs in the oven take about 15 minutes at 350 degrees F. Learn how to bake hot dogs in this post.
Air fry hot dogs for 5-7 minutes at 300 degrees F.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you boil frozen hot dogs?
Yes! Just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time for frozen hot dogs to ensure they’re fully heated.

How do I know when my hot dogs are done?
Hot dogs are ready when they plump up and start to float. For accuracy, check for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I add different flavors to the boiling water?
Absolutely! Infuse the water with onion slices, garlic, or a splash of beer for a flavorful dog with a twist.

Mastering the art of boiling hot dogs is the ultimate quick cooking method for any occasion. So let’s get cooking! Share your favorite topping combos and spread the love for the best-tasting hot dogs around!

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