There’s something truly irresistible about combining two classic American favorites into one show-stopping dish, and that’s exactly what the Big Mac Hot Dogs Recipe delivers. Imagine the nostalgic, tangy, and creamy flavors of a Big Mac, all wrapped up inside a juicy, perfectly grilled hot dog nestled in a warm buttery bun topped with sesame seeds. It’s the ultimate comfort food mashup that’s both playful and comforting, perfect for gatherings or a fun weeknight dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds. If you love the iconic taste of a Big Mac but want something quick and easy with a twist, this recipe is an absolute must-try.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about simple, essential ingredients that come together to create a delicious blend of flavors and textures. From the creamy homemade Big Mac sauce to the crisp shredded lettuce and tangy pickles, every component plays a vital role in mimicking the burger’s classic taste in hot dog form.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base for the signature Big Mac sauce that brings everything together.
- Dill pickle relish: Adds a sweet and tangy crunch that’s essential for that authentic Big Mac flavor.
- Ketchup: Provides a subtle tomato sweetness to balance the other ingredients.
- Yellow mustard: Offers a gentle kick and sharpness in the sauce.
- Apple cider vinegar or white vinegar: Adds light acidity to brighten the sauce.
- Paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder: These spices deepen the sauce’s savory notes without overpowering the flavor.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors while seasoning the sauce perfectly.
- Beef hot dogs: The star protein, juicy and flavorful, providing the perfect vessel for these bold flavors.
- Hot dog buns: Soft and warm, ready to hold all the toppings and sauce.
- Butter: Used to brush and toast the buns, giving them a golden, rich finish.
- Sesame seeds: The iconic finishing touch that makes each bun look and taste like a mini Big Mac bun.
- American cheese slices: Melted inside the buns to add gooey, creamy indulgence.
- Shredded lettuce: Adds crispness and fresh texture just like the original burger.
- Dill pickle slices: Essential for that tangy crunch next to the hot dog.
- Finely diced white onion: Adds sharpness and a bit of bite for the perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Big Mac Hot Dogs Recipe
Step 1: Make Big Mac Sauce
Start by whisking together the mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, ketchup, yellow mustard, vinegar, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt in a small bowl. You want to combine these thoroughly so the flavors meld perfectly. This sauce is the heart and soul of the dish, giving that unmistakable Big Mac taste in every bite. Once mixed, set it aside to let the flavors marry while you prepare everything else.
Step 2: Cook the Hot Dogs
Choose your favorite cooking method—grilling on an outdoor grill, pan-searing on the stovetop, or even using a grill pan. The goal is to achieve a nice sear with a slightly charred flavor, locking in the juices. This brings out the savory beefy goodness and ensures your hot dogs remain juicy and delicious for the final assembly.
Step 3: Toast the Buns with Butter and Sesame Seeds
While the hot dogs cook, slap those buns onto a baking sheet and broil them just until they’re warmed through. Then, brush the warm buns with melted butter—it helps create a rich flavor and that irresistible golden crunch. Before popping them back in the oven, sprinkle sesame seeds on top to mimic the classic Big Mac bun appearance. This little detail makes the presentation extra fun and authentic.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese Inside the Buns
Lay two slices of American cheese inside each warmed bun, then return them to the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes. The cheese will slowly melt to creamy perfection, creating a delightful layer that hugs the hot dog once assembled and adds a touch of indulgence that no Big Mac-inspired dish should be without.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Layer about ¼ cup of shredded lettuce on top of the melted cheese, then gently place the grilled hot dog right on top. Tuck 3 to 4 dill pickle slices along the side of the hot dog followed by a generous sprinkle of finely diced white onion. The final flourish is a generous drizzle of that homemade Big Mac sauce. Each bite will crumble with layers of texture and bold flavor that perfectly capture the spirit of a Big Mac in every mouthwatering hot dog.
How to Serve Big Mac Hot Dogs Recipe
Garnishes
Adding extra garnishes is a great way to personalize your Big Mac Hot Dogs Recipe. Consider adding more shredded lettuce and onions for crunch, or even a few extra pickle slices if you love that tangy bite. A light dusting of paprika over the sauce can also elevate the look and add a subtle smoky flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair these Big Mac Hot Dogs with classic sides like crispy French fries, onion rings, or even a simple coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. A side of baked beans or a tangy potato salad also complements the flavors beautifully and rounds out your meal for casual parties or family dinners.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving these at a party or casual get-together, try presenting the hot dogs on a platter garnished with extra lettuce, pickles, and onions on the side. You could also offer small bowls of Big Mac sauce for dipping – guests will love customizing each bite. For a fun twist, slice the hot dogs into bite-sized pieces and serve them as sliders or appetizers with mini buns.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover hot dogs and buns separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the Big Mac sauce covered and refrigerated as well. This separation helps maintain the texture so buns don’t get soggy before you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked hot dogs and buns if needed, though it’s best to freeze them separately to preserve texture. Defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat gently before assembling to keep the buns soft and the hot dogs juicy. The sauce is best made fresh or kept refrigerated rather than frozen for optimal flavor.
Reheating
Reheat hot dogs on the stovetop or grill for a quick refresh, and toast buns in the oven or on a skillet with a little butter to bring back their warmth and slight crisp. Avoid microwaving the buns directly as it can make them chewy or tough. Once warm, reassemble with fresh lettuce, onions, pickles, and a drizzle of Big Mac sauce for almost-like-fresh results.
FAQs
Can I use other types of hot dogs for this recipe?
Absolutely! While classic beef hot dogs are traditional, you can use turkey, chicken, or even plant-based hot dogs if you prefer. Just make sure they’re juicy and flavorful enough to hold up against the bold Big Mac toppings and sauce.
Is it possible to make the Big Mac sauce ahead of time?
Yes, making the sauce ahead is actually a great idea as it allows the flavors to deepen and meld. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, and just give it a good stir before using.
Can I substitute the American cheese with something else?
You can substitute American cheese with cheddar, Swiss, or even a mild mozzarella if you want, but American cheese melts perfectly and has that classic creamy texture that makes this dish special.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, swap the beef hot dogs for plant-based alternatives such as Beyond Meat or veggie dogs. Keep all the other ingredients the same to retain the flavor profile that makes the Big Mac Hot Dogs Recipe a crowd-pleaser.
What’s the best way to keep the buns from getting soggy?
To prevent soggy buns, toast them with butter and sesame seeds as described, then assemble the hot dogs right before serving. Storing toppings like lettuce and pickles separately until ready to eat also helps keep everything fresh and crisp.
Final Thoughts
If you love the iconic flavors of a Big Mac but want to switch things up with a fun and easy twist, the Big Mac Hot Dogs Recipe is your new go-to. It’s simple, satisfying, and offers a nostalgic flavor bomb that’s perfect for any occasion. So next time you’re craving something playful but comforting, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret the explosion of flavors and smiles it brings to the table.
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Big Mac Hot Dogs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Big Mac Hot Dogs recipe combines the classic flavors of a Big Mac burger with the convenience of a hot dog. Featuring a homemade Big Mac sauce, melted American cheese, shredded lettuce, pickles, and diced onions on grilled beef hot dogs nestled in toasted sesame seed buns, this dish offers a fun and flavorful twist perfect for casual dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Big Mac Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons dill pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar OR white distilled vinegar
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Main Ingredients
- 8 bun-length beef hot dogs
- 8 hot dog buns
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 16 slices American cheese
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- Dill pickle slices
- Finely diced white onion
Instructions
- Make Big Mac Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, dill pickle relish, ketchup, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar), paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt until well combined. Set the sauce aside for later use.
- Cook Hot Dogs: Grill the hot dogs using your preferred method such as a grill pan on the stovetop, skillet pan, or outdoor grill until thoroughly cooked and heated through.
- Toast Buns: While the hot dogs are cooking, place the hot dog buns on a baking sheet and broil them in the oven just until they are warm. Remove the buns and while they are still warm, brush each bun with melted butter and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
- Melt Cheese: Place two slices of American cheese inside each toasted bun and return them to the broiler for 1-2 minutes to allow the cheese to melt smoothly.
- Assemble and Serve: Add about ¼ cup of shredded lettuce on top of the melted cheese in each bun. Place a grilled hot dog on the lettuce, then tuck 3 to 4 dill pickle slices alongside the hot dog. Sprinkle finely diced white onion over the top and drizzle generously with the prepared Big Mac special sauce. Serve immediately for best taste.
Notes
- You can substitute beef hot dogs with turkey or chicken hot dogs for a leaner option.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the Big Mac sauce.
- Toasting the buns under the broiler enhances their texture and flavor but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- This recipe is great for casual meals, barbecues, or game-day snacks.
