Grilled Hot Dog Kabobs Recipe

As an alternative to using a grill, you can also cook the hot dog kabobs in the oven, under a broiler.  To do that, first preheat the oven on Broil, then put the hot dog kabobs on a baking sheet and put them on the top shelf in the oven and broil for 5 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic BBQ: Serve these grilled hot dog kabobs alongside classic BBQ sides like potato salad, northern beans, or corn on the cob for a complete meal.
• Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of homemade dipping sauces like buffalo, shrimp cocktail, BBQ sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for added flavor.
• Party Platter: Arrange the kabobs on a platter with rainbow veggies and fruits. They make a great party snack or appetizer.
• Grilled Veggies: Pair the hot dog kabobs with some grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to add more variety to your plate.
• Bun-Free Hot Dog Meal: These kabobs are a great option for those looking to enjoy hot dogs without the bun. Add a side salad or coleslaw to balance the meal.

If you want, you can put vegetables or fruit piece on a skewer along with the hot dog pieces.  Great additions to hot dog kabobs are onion slices, bell peppers slices and pineapple chunks!

Tips For Success

• Soak Wooden Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least an hour before grilling. This prevents them from burning or catching fire while on the grill.
• Even Pieces: When cutting the hot dogs, try to keep the pieces the same size so they cook evenly. Uneven pieces may lead to some being overcooked while others remain undercooked.
• Preheat Your Grill or Oven: Preheating is key to achieving a nice char on the hot dogs. A hot grill or broiler gives the kabobs a delicious, crispy exterior while keeping them juicy inside.
• Rotate Skewers: For even cooking, rotate the skewers halfway through cooking. This ensures that all sides of the hot dog pieces are evenly grilled or broiled, giving them that beautiful, golden-brown color.
• Customize with Veggies or Fruits: Feel free to add sliced onions, bell peppers, zucchini, or pineapple to your skewers. These additions will not only add flavor but also color and texture, making the kabobs more exciting.
• Don’t Overcook: Since hot dogs are already fully cooked, you’re just looking to warm them through and get a bit of char. Overcooking them can make them tough or dry, so keep an eye on the grill!
• Oven Alternative: If you’re using your oven’s broiler, watch closely, as broiling can cook food quickly. Keep the kabobs on the top rack to get that grilled effect without needing an outdoor grill.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: If you’re catering to vegetarians, swap out traditional hot dogs for plant-based hot dogs. There are many brands that offer vegan or vegetarian alternatives, and they grill up just like the regular ones!
• Spice It Up: For a little extra kick, try using spicy sausages instead of plain hot dogs. And if you want to add more flavor, you can sprinkle the hot dogs with a little paprika, garlic powder, or chili flakes before grilling.
• Add Cheese: Want a cheesy twist? Thread pieces of cheese between the hot dog sections. Just be cautious when grilling as cheese can melt quickly. Cheddar or pepper jack would make a great addition for extra flavor.
• Mix and Match Veggies: In addition to or instead of the hot dogs, you can load your skewers with a variety of veggies. Think cherry tomatoes, zucchini slices, mushrooms, and even brussels sprouts. These add color and freshness to your kabobs, creating a well-rounded dish.
• Fruit Kabobs: For a sweet and savory combo, try adding fruits like pineapple, apple slices, or even peaches to the skewers. The heat from the grill caramelizes the natural sugars in the fruit, giving them a delicious flavor that pairs wonderfully with the hot dogs.
• Gluten-Free Option: If you’re gluten-intolerant, make sure to use gluten-free hot dogs. Many brands offer gluten-free options, so you don’t have to miss out on this fun meal!
• Seasoned Kabobs: For an extra layer of flavor, consider brushing your kabobs with a marinade or sauce before grilling. A honey mustard glaze, BBQ sauce, or even teriyaki would complement the hot dogs beautifully. Just be sure to apply any sugary sauces toward the end of grilling to avoid burning.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: If you have leftover hot dog kabobs, let them cool to room temperature before storing. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat the kabobs, you can place them back on the grill for a couple of minutes to warm through, or use your oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the kabobs on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave also works! Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, but be sure to watch them to avoid overheating, which can cause the hot dogs to become tough.
• Freezing: While these kabobs are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the grilled hot dogs if needed. Remove them from the skewers and place the hot dog pieces in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and follow the reheating steps above.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these hot dog kabobs without a grill?

Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the hot dog kabobs in your oven using the broiler. Preheat the oven on Broil, place the skewers on a baking sheet, and broil them on the top rack for about 5 minutes. You’ll still get a nice char and they will cook quickly!

Can I add other ingredients to the skewers?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or even fruits like pineapple to the skewers. This adds color, flavor, and nutrition to your kabobs. Just make sure to cut everything into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.

What are the best types of hot dogs to use for kabobs?

You can use any type of hot dog for this recipe! Beef, pork, chicken, or even veggie hot dogs will work great. Just pick your favorite brand or type, and cut them into pieces that are easy to skewer.

How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?

If you’re using wooden skewers, it’s important to soak them in water for at least an hour before grilling. This prevents the skewers from burning when exposed to high heat. If you want to skip this step, you can also use metal skewers, which don’t require soaking.

Can I make these kabobs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the kabobs ahead of time by skewering the hot dogs (and any veggies you want to add) and storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. If you plan to store them overnight, be sure to cover them well with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.

Other Easy Hot Dog Recipes

Best Way To Grill Hot Dogs: Learn how to perfectly grill hot dogs with a delicious char and juicy flavor every time.

How To Cook A Hot Dog In The Microwave: This quick and easy method will have your hot dog ready in under 2 minutes, perfect for a speedy meal or snack.

Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs: Crispy bacon and juicy hot dogs come together in this simple air fryer recipe for a savory, satisfying bite.

Air Fryer Crescent Roll Hot Dogs: Hot dogs wrapped in flaky crescent rolls and air-fried to golden perfection, an easy snack or party treat.

Hot Dogs In The Air Fryer: Make perfectly cooked, juicy hot dogs in the air fryer in just minutes with this foolproof method.

Instant Pot Cooked Hot Dogs: Learn how to cook hot dogs in the Instant Pot for a quick, no-fuss meal that’s ready in no time.

Crescent Roll Pigs In A Blanket Recipe: A classic appetizer made with hot dogs wrapped in soft, buttery crescent rolls, baked until golden brown.

More Kabobs Recipes

• Easy Air Fryer Chicken Skewers
• Oven Baked Salmon Skewers Recipe
• Healthy Grinch Kabobs Christmas Snack or Appetizer Recipe