Best Hot Dog Toppings: 10 Delicious Ideas to Elevate Your Grilling Game

Hot dogs are a classic American food that has been enjoyed for generations. Whether you’re at a baseball game, a backyard barbecue, or a street vendor, hot dogs are a go-to snack for many people. While some prefer their hot dogs plain, others enjoy adding toppings to enhance the flavor and texture of their meal. In this article, we’ll be exploring the best hot dog toppings to take your hot dog experience to the next level.

When it comes to hot dog toppings, there are countless options to choose from. From classic condiments like ketchup and mustard to more unique toppings like sauerkraut and chili, the possibilities are endless. However, not all hot dog toppings are created equal, and it’s essential to choose the right toppings to maximize flavor and texture.

One critical thing to keep in mind when selecting hot dog toppings is the balance of flavors and textures. A good hot dog topping should complement the flavor of the hot dog without overpowering it. Additionally, the texture of the topping should provide a pleasant contrast to the hot dog’s softness. In the following sections, we’ll be exploring the best hot dog toppings that meet these criteria and take your hot dog experience to the next level.

Best Hot Dog Toppings

We all know that hot dogs are a classic American food, but what really makes them stand out are the toppings. From traditional favorites like ketchup and mustard to more adventurous options like kimchi and sriracha, the possibilities are endless. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best hot dog toppings to take your next cookout or game day gathering to the next level. Whether you’re a purist or a thrill-seeker, we’ve got you covered. So without further ado, here are our top picks for the best hot dog toppings.

1) Plochman’s Chili Dog Mustard

We highly recommend Plochman’s Chili Dog Mustard for anyone looking to add a unique and delicious flavor to their hot dogs or other favorite foods.

Plochman’s Chili Dog Mustard is a unique and flavorful addition to any meal. The real chili flavor adds an extra kick to your hot dogs, hamburgers, pretzels, french fries, nachos, and more. Made with gourmet-quality slow-cooked chili spices, this mustard offers a delicious touch to any dish. The smooth texture and vibrant color make it a versatile condiment that can be used as a dipping mustard or mustard dip.

One potential downside to this mustard is that some may find the chili flavor too strong for their taste. Additionally, the squeeze bottle may not be as convenient as a traditional mustard bottle. Finally, the price point may be higher than other mustard brands.

Overall, we highly recommend Plochman’s Chili Dog Mustard for anyone looking to add a unique and delicious flavor to their hot dogs or other favorite foods. With its health-conscious ingredients and gourmet-quality taste, this mustard is sure to impress.

2) Harry & David Pepper & Onion Relish With Zinfandel

If you’re looking for a versatile and flavorful hot dog topping, Harry & David Pepper & Onion Relish With Zinfandel is definitely worth trying.

We recently tried this relish on our hot dogs and were pleasantly surprised by how much we enjoyed it. The combination of tomatoes, jalapeno peppers, and red bell peppers creates a unique and versatile flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes.

The addition of Zinfandel wine adds a touch of boldness to the sweet pepper taste, making it stand out from other relishes we’ve tried. We also appreciate that this relish can be used in a variety of ways, from a sandwich spread to a cheeseburger topping.

The only downside we noticed is that the price may be a bit steep for some, especially considering the relatively small jar size. Additionally, those who prefer a more savory flavor may find this relish too sweet for their liking. Lastly, the jalapeno peppers may be too spicy for those who are sensitive to heat.

Overall, we highly recommend giving Harry & David Pepper & Onion Relish With Zinfandel a try if you’re looking for a unique and flavorful hot dog topping.

3) Heinz Hot Dog Relish

We highly recommend Heinz Hot Dog Relish for anyone looking to add a tangy, flavorful kick to their hot dogs, sausages, burgers, and brats.

Heinz Hot Dog Relish is a common condiment done uncommonly well. The diced pickles and mustard provide a tangy, zesty flavor that is sure to please any palate. We especially appreciate the plastic squeeze bottle, which allows for easy dispensing without any mess or hassle. While some customers have noted that the relish is on the sweeter side, we find it to be a delicious addition to hot dogs, sausages, and burgers.

One thing to note is that the saffron listed in the product description is not a prominent flavor in the relish. Additionally, a few customers have received damaged bottles during shipping, so be sure to check your order carefully upon arrival. Overall, we think Heinz Hot Dog Relish is a great value for the price, and we highly recommend it to anyone looking to add some extra flavor to their summer grilling.

4) Vienna® Beef – Chicago Style Hot Dog Kit 16 PACK

If you’re looking for a taste of authentic Chicago-style hot dogs, then the Vienna® Beef – Chicago Style Hot Dog Kit 16 PACK is a great option.

If you’re a fan of Chicago-style hot dogs and want to experience the authentic taste at home, then the Vienna® Beef – Chicago Style Hot Dog Kit 16 PACK is a great option. The kit includes all the necessary toppings to make 16 delicious hot dogs, and the premium beef franks are of high quality and free of fillers, artificial colorings, and flavorings. While the price point may be higher than other hot dog toppings on the market, the convenience and ease of use make it a worthwhile purchase. However, if you prefer to customize your hot dogs to your liking, you may want to buy the toppings separately. Additionally, the kit may not be suitable for those with dietary restrictions, as it contains gluten and soy. Overall, we recommend trying out the Vienna® Beef – Chicago Style Hot Dog Kit 16 PACK for an authentic taste of Chicago-style hot dogs.

5) Wisconsin’s Best – Sweet Hot Jalapeno Relish 16oz. (2 Pack), Sweet & Spicy. Topping for Cheese & Crackers, Beef, Pork and Poultry 16oz. Sweet Hot Jalapeno Relish

If you’re looking to add some sweet and spicy flavor to your hot dogs, burgers, or sandwiches, Wisconsin’s Best Sweet Hot Jalapeno Relish might be just what you need. This relish is perfect for entertaining guests or adding some excitement to your everyday meals.

We recently tried this relish on our hot dogs and were impressed by the unique combination of flavors. The sweetness of the relish paired perfectly with the saltiness of the hot dog, while the jalapeno added a subtle kick of heat. We also tried it on burgers and sandwiches and found it to be just as delicious.

One thing to note is that the sweetness of the relish might not be for everyone. If you prefer a more savory topping, this might not be the best choice for you. Additionally, while the jalapeno adds some heat, it’s not overly spicy. If you’re looking for a lot of heat, you might want to try another brand.

Overall, we would recommend Wisconsin’s Best Sweet Hot Jalapeno Relish to anyone looking for a unique and tasty topping for their hot dogs, burgers, or sandwiches. While it might not be for everyone, we think it’s definitely worth a try.

6) Vienna® Beef Natural Casing Hot Dog 10 Per Pack (3 Pack) 1.25 Pound (Pack of 3)

If you’re looking for a delicious and authentic Chicago-style hot dog, the Vienna® Beef Natural Casing Hot Dog is a great option. With its natural casing and beefy flavor, this hot dog is sure to satisfy your cravings.

We recently tried the Vienna® Beef Natural Casing Hot Dog and were impressed with its flavor and texture. The natural casing provided a satisfying snap when we bit into it, and the beefy flavor was authentic and delicious. We also appreciated the convenience of the 3 pack, which allowed us to stock up for future barbecues or share with friends and family.

While we enjoyed the hot dogs, we did find the price to be a bit high compared to other hot dog options. Additionally, the natural casing may not be to everyone’s liking, and the hot dogs may not be suitable for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.

Overall, if you’re looking for an authentic Chicago-style hot dog, the Vienna® Beef Natural Casing Hot Dog is definitely worth considering. Just be aware of the price and the natural casing before making your purchase.

7) Central Grocery Olive Salad

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of New Orleans, Central Grocery’s Olive Salad is a must-have in your pantry. This versatile and delicious Italian Olive Salad is perfect for sandwiches, salads, seafood, and more. The pack of four 16oz jars provides ample olive salad for multiple dishes and recipes.

We highly recommend Central Grocery’s Olive Salad for anyone looking to add a flavorful twist to their meals. The authentic taste of New Orleans is captured in every bite, and the high-quality ingredients ensure a delicious experience.

Craft your own Muffuletta sandwiches at home, add a flavorful twist to your salads, or elevate your seafood dishes with this exceptional olive salad. Order your jar today and experience the true flavors of New Orleans.

8) Vienna Beef Hot Dog Lovers’ Hot Dog Pack

If you’re looking for a delicious hot dog experience, the Vienna Beef Hot Dog Lovers’ Hot Dog Pack is a great option. Here’s what we found when we tried it out.

We loved the flavor of the Vienna Beef hot dogs. They have a classic taste that’s sure to remind you of summertime cookouts. Plus, they have a nice snap when you bite into them, which is a hallmark of a great hot dog.

The pack comes with three 2-pound packs of hot dogs, so you’ll have plenty to enjoy. However, the price is a bit higher than some other hot dog options, so keep that in mind when making your purchase.

One thing to note is that these hot dogs are skinless, which may not be everyone’s preference. However, we found that they still had a great texture and flavor.

Overall, if you’re looking for a delicious hot dog experience, the Vienna Beef Hot Dog Lovers’ Hot Dog Pack is a great option. Just be aware that they may be a bit pricier than some other options, and they’re not available in all grocery stores.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best hot dog toppings, there are a few key features to consider. We recommend taking a look at the following factors before making your purchase:

Flavor

The flavor of your hot dog toppings is perhaps the most important factor to consider. You want toppings that will enhance the flavor of the hot dog without overpowering it. Some popular options include classic ketchup and mustard, tangy sauerkraut, and spicy jalapenos.

Texture

Texture is another important factor to consider when choosing hot dog toppings. You want toppings that will add a little crunch or chewiness to the hot dog, without making it too difficult to eat. Some great options include crispy fried onions, creamy coleslaw, and juicy diced tomatoes.

Nutritional Value

While hot dogs themselves may not be the healthiest option, you can still make smart choices when it comes to toppings. Look for toppings that are low in calories and fat, and high in vitamins and nutrients. Some good options include fresh vegetables like onions and peppers, and low-fat condiments like mustard and relish.

Presentation

Finally, consider the presentation of your hot dog toppings. You want toppings that will look appealing and appetizing, whether you’re serving them at a backyard barbecue or a fancy dinner party. Some great options for presentation include colorful diced tomatoes, bright green relish, and finely chopped herbs like parsley and cilantro.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best hot dog toppings for your needs and preferences. Whether you prefer classic condiments or more adventurous flavors, there are plenty of options out there to suit your taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some classic hot dog topping combinations?

Classic hot dog toppings include ketchup, mustard, relish, and onions. These toppings are widely available and can be found at most hot dog stands and restaurants. Other popular toppings include sauerkraut, chili, and cheese.

What are some healthy alternatives to traditional hot dog toppings?

For a healthier option, consider topping your hot dog with vegetables such as grilled onions, peppers, and mushrooms. You can also use low-fat cheese and condiments such as salsa or hummus instead of traditional high-fat toppings.

How can I create a gourmet hot dog with unique toppings?

To create a gourmet hot dog, experiment with unique toppings such as caramelized onions, avocado, or bacon jam. You can also try using different types of cheese, such as blue cheese or feta, and topping your hot dog with a homemade sauce, such as a spicy aioli or a balsamic glaze.

What toppings are included in a traditional Chicago-style hot dog?

A traditional Chicago-style hot dog includes mustard, onions, relish, tomato slices, a pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. This classic combination is a favorite among hot dog enthusiasts and is a must-try for anyone visiting Chicago.

How can I set up a hot dog toppings bar for a party?

To set up a hot dog toppings bar, provide a variety of toppings such as ketchup, mustard, relish, onions, sauerkraut, chili, cheese, and bacon. You can also include unique toppings such as jalapenos, guacamole, or coleslaw. Make sure to provide plenty of napkins and utensils for your guests.

What are some creative ways to enhance a simple hot dog?

To enhance a simple hot dog, try wrapping it in bacon or topping it with mac and cheese. You can also experiment with different types of buns, such as pretzel buns or brioche buns, and try grilling your hot dog for added flavor. Another fun idea is to create a hot dog slider by using mini buns and hot dogs.