Traeger Hot Dogs

How to make the best Traeger hot dogs

Step 1: Choose the Perfect Hot Dogs

Now, before we dive into the smoky wonderland, let’s talk about the star of the show—hot dogs! When it comes to smoking, you want a hot dog that’s up for the challenge. Opt for quality dogs with natural casings for that satisfying snap when you bite into them. Look for flavors that tickle your fancy—spicy, cheesy, or maybe even bacon-wrapped hot dogs if you’re feeling adventurous! It’s all about finding the best match for your taste buds.

Step 2: Prepare the Traeger Grill

Alright, it’s time to fire up that Traeger grill and get the smokin’ party started! Preheat the grill to about 225°F (107°C). While it’s warming up, soak some wood chips—I highly recommend hickory or mesquite—for a smoky flavor punch. Once the grill is hot and ready, add those soaked chips to the firebox and let them work their magic. The aromatic smoke is gonna give those hot dogs an extra dimension of deliciousness!

Step 3: Prep the Hot Dogs

While the grill is heating up, it’s time to give those hot dogs a little love. Take a sharp knife and make a few shallow cuts on each dog. This helps the smoky goodness penetrate deep into the meat, infusing it with flavor. Think of it as a spa treatment for your dogs, only with smoke instead of cucumber slices!

Step 4: Let the Smoke Show Begin

Now, carefully place your prepped hot dogs on the grill grates. Close the lid and let the Traeger work its magic. The low and slow cooking method is what’s gonna make these dogs sing. Depending on the thickness of your hot dogs, they’ll take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours to cook. Remember, patience is key here, my friends! Kick back, relax, and let the smoky aroma fill the air. Your taste buds will thank you later!

Step 5: Check for Doneness

When it comes to knowing if your hot dogs are cooked to perfection, you’ve got a couple of tricks up your sleeve. One option is to use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. You’re aiming for around 160°F (71°C). Alternatively, you can give the hot dogs a gentle poke with a fork. If the juices run clear, you’re good to go! Just make sure not to poke too many holes, or your juicy goodness might escape. Nobody wants a dry dog, right? 

Step 6: Serve and Savor the Smoky Goodness

Once your hot dogs are beautifully smoked and cooked to perfection, it’s time to gather your condiments, buns, and friends! Dress them up with your favorite toppings—I’m talking sauerkraut, mustard, onions, relish, and maybe even a sprinkle of grated cheese if you’re feeling fancy. Then, take that first bite and let the explosion of smoky flavors dance on your tongue. Pure bliss, my friends. Pure bliss.

What’s the best type of hot dog to smoke

When it comes to choosing the perfect hot dog for smoking, the options are endless. From beef to pork to chicken and even vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. Personally, I’m a fan of a good beef frank with a natural casing. It’s got that satisfying snap and holds up beautifully to the smoky flavors. But hey, feel free to experiment and find your own personal favorite. Life’s too short to stick to just one kind of dog, right?

How to know when hot dogs are cooked

The age-old question, my friends! The best way to know if your hot dogs are cooked to perfection is by checking their internal temperature. Aim for around 160°F (71°C) with an instant-read meat thermometer. Alternatively, if you’re sans thermometer, give those dogs a gentle poke with a fork. Clear juices mean you’re in business! And remember, practice makes perfect. So, keep grilling and tasting until you’ve mastered the art of perfectly cooked hot dogs. You got this!

Cut hot dogs before grilling

Ah, the great hot dog dilemma—cut or not to cut? Personally, I prefer to leave my hot dogs whole before grilling. That way, they retain all their juiciness and flavor. However, cutting the dogs before grilling can create some grooves for that smoky goodness to seep into. It’s all about personal preference, my friends. So, go ahead and experiment. Grill some cut, some whole, and see which style tickles your taste buds just right!

What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers

Now, let’s talk leftovers because, hey, sometimes we go a little overboard with our grilling adventures. If you find yourself with extra smoked hot dogs, fear not! Pop those bad boys in an airtight container or a ziplock bag and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for a couple of days. When you’re ready for a smoky delight, simply reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or zap ’em in the microwave for a quick fix. Just like that, you’ve got a smoky snack ready to rock!

Best side dishes to serve with hot dogs

Now that we’ve got our smoky dogs sorted, let’s talk about the perfect side dish to accompany them. Personally, I’m all about some good ol’ coleslaw. The crispness and creaminess of coleslaw complement the smokiness of the hot dogs beautifully. But hey, you do you! Maybe some grilled corn on the cob, a refreshing cucumber salad, or even some mac and cheese will float your boat. Get creative, my friends, and let those taste buds embark on a culinary adventure!

Now, let’s dive into the recipe and whip up some smoked hot dogs from scratch!

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Traeger Hot Dogs

Tantalize your taste buds with this delicious Traeger Hot Dog Recipe! Impress your friends and family with a smoky, juicy hot dog cooked to perfection.

Course Main Course

Prep Time 5 minutes

Cook Time 1 hour

Ingredients

• 8 pieces Hot dogs
• 8 pieces Hot dog buns
• Wood chips (hickory or mesquite)
• Condiments and toppings of your choice (mustard, ketchup, sauerkraut, onions, relish, cheese, etc.)

Instructions

Preparing the grill

1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 225°F (107°C).

2. Soak a handful of wood chips (hickory or mesquite) in water for about 30 minutes.

Prepping the hot dogs

1. Take each hot dog and make a few shallow cuts on the surface using a knife.This helps the smoky flavors penetrate the meat better.

Smoking the hot dogs

1. Once the grill is preheated, add the soaked wood chips to the firebox or smoker box.

2. Place the hot dogs directly on the grill grates and close the lid.

3. Let the hot dogs smoke for approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on their thickness.

Checking for doneness

1. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the hot dogs. Aim for around 160°F (71°C).

2. Alternatively, give the hot dogs a gentle poke with a fork. Clear juices indicate they're cooked through.

Serving and enjoying

1. Remove the smoked hot dogs from the grill and place them in the buns.

2. Dress them up with your favorite condiments and toppings—get creative!