Air Fryer Hot Dogs

Name: Air Fryer Hot Dogs
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 13 min
Ingredients: 15 ounces bun-size or length franks, (we used Ball Park brand (425 grams)); 12 ounces 8-pack hot dog buns, (we used our local grocery store brand (340 grams)); 1 tablespoon salted butter, (melted (optional)); Condiments of your choice

Air Fryer Hot Dogs cook in just 15 minutes, combining a crispy bite with juicy flavor. Customize them to your liking for any casual meal.

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Table of Contents

Air Fryer Hot Dog Ingredients
Air Fried Hot Dogs Substitutions and Additions
How To Cook Hot Dogs In The Air Fryer
Troubleshooting
How To Serve Air Fryer Hot Dogs
How To Store Leftover Hot Dogs
Why These Easy Air Fryer Hot Dogs Are The Best
Frequently Asked Questions
More Of Our Favorite Air Fryer Recipes
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Air Fryer Hot Dogs are a quick and convenient meal. They’re a game changer since they’re ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish. Air frying your hot dogs speeds up the cooking time and enhances the franks so they have that perfectly crispy bite without the hassle of grilling or boiling.

Start your air fryer and get ready for some of the best hot dogs you’ve ever had! This recipe brings out all the yummy flavors and yields extra juicy dogs, making them a favorite for both quick lunches and weeknight dinners.

Hot Dogs topped with ketchup and mustard served with chips

Air Fryer Hot Dog Ingredients

Air Fryer Hot Dogs raw ingredients that are labeled

This family friendly recipe needs just about the same ingredients you’d use if you were boiling or pan frying your hot dogs, but it’s quicker and tastes even better. It’s the ultimate way to make hot dogs.

You’ll need.

1 (15 ounce -or- 425 grams) bun-size (or length) franks (We used Ball Park brand)
1 (12-ounce -or- 340-gram) 8-pack hot dog buns (We used a grocery store brand)
1 tablespoon salted butter, melted (optional)
Condiments of your choice

Air Fried Hot Dogs Substitutions and Additions

Franks: This recipe works with any kind of hot dogs. Swap all-beef franks for chicken or turkey dogs, or even plant-based hot dogs.

Hot Dog Buns: Gluten-free buns are a great alternative for those with gluten sensitivities. We used basic hot dog rolls, but you can also use brioche buns, whole wheat buns, or potato buns for more flavor.

Salted Butter: Dairy-free butter substitutes or even olive oil can be used instead of butter if you’d like.

Condiments: Here’s where you can really customize your hot dogs. Of course, you can slather your hot dogs with ketchup and mustard. For a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeño slices or sriracha sauce. You may enjoy relish or sauerkraut, too.

How To Cook Hot Dogs In The Air Fryer

This amazing hot dogs recipe is so simple to make. If you have an air fryer on hand, you’ll be using it way more often once you see how easy this cooking method is.

STEP ONE: Before you start, make sure to preheat your air fryer to 400°F. If your air fryer model doesn’t require preheating, you can skip this step, but getting the air fryer hot before cooking can help ensure your hot dogs cook evenly and get that nice, crispy exterior.

PRO TIP: This is a great time to get your hot dog buns and condiments ready. Have everything laid out so you can assemble your hot dogs quickly once they’re cooked.

STEP TWO: While the air fryer is heating, prepare your hot dogs by making a few diagonal cuts on each. This not only helps them cook more evenly but also gives them a pleasing texture and look.

PRO TIP: Don’t cut your hot dogs too deep; just shallow cuts will do the trick. For a fun twist, try making diagonal or crisscross patterns on your franks. This doesn’t just help in cooking but also allows for better condiment absorption.

STEP THREE: Place the hot dogs in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re evenly spaced and not touching to allow for even airflow and cooking. Set the timer for four minutes at 400°F. Check at the four-minute mark to ensure they’re cooking to your liking.

PRO TIP: Depending on the size and power of your air fryer, cooking times may vary slightly. It’s good to keep an eye on them during the final minutes to prevent overcooking.

STEP FOUR: Once the hot dogs are done, place them in the buns. If you like your buns toasted, brush the edges with melted butter and put them in the air fryer with the hot dogs for an additional couple of minutes at 400°F until they are lightly golden. Serve your hot dogs fresh from the air fryer with your choice of condiments.

PRO TIP: If your air fryer is on the smaller side, you might need to cook the buns in batches. Alternatively, if you prefer softer buns, you can skip toasting them in the air fryer.

hot dog buns brushed with butter and served with condiments

Troubleshooting

Experiencing a problem? Here are some simple solutions to common issues:

The hot dogs are bursting open.

To prevent the hot dogs from splitting, make shallow cuts on their surface before cooking, allowing steam to escape.

The hot dogs are cooking unevenly.

Ensure the hot dogs are not touching each other in the air fryer basket to allow for better air circulation and even cooking. If you have a smaller air fryer, cook in batches.

Buns are becoming too hard or burnt.

Monitor the buns closely during the last few minutes of air frying and start checking earlier than the suggested time based on your appliance.

Hot dogs are drying out.

Avoid overcooking the hot dogs by setting a timer and checking them towards the end of the cooking time. If they are cooked but not yet at the desired crispness, monitor them closely for an extra minute.

How To Serve Air Fryer Hot Dogs

Whether you need a quick lunch, are planning a backyard picnic, or just an easy meal, here are some exciting ways to elevate your hot dog game.

Classic American Cookout: Serve your hot dogs with a side of crispy air-fried french fries or potato chips and a simple coleslaw or pickle relish.

Hot Dog Bar: Set up a hot dog bar at your next gathering with a variety of condiments and toppings. Make a spread of the best hot dog toppings like cheese sauce, white onion, jalapeños, and sauerkraut. This allows guests to customize their hot dogs exactly how they like them!

Make Chili Dogs: Turn plain dogs into savory chili dogs by making a simple chili to serve on the side. Scoop homemade chili over a slice of cheese on each hot dog, stuffed in a perfectly toasted bun. Yum!

Hot Dog Sliders: Slice the hot dogs into smaller pieces and serve them on mini buns as sliders. This is perfect for parties or children’s events where smaller portions are more appropriate.

Comfort Food Combo: Pair your hot dogs with a hearty chicken noodle soup. It’s the perfect comforting meal.

Make these hot dogs in the air fryer on family movie night or at a children’s birthday party. They’re perfect for summer pool parties or just for a weeknight meal. Air frying is the tastiest way to make hot dogs, and makes for an easy dinner when served with simple side dishes.

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How To Store Leftover Hot Dogs

Making these hot dogs fresh is so easy, it’s likely to become your new favorite way to make them! If you have leftovers, you can definitely enjoy them again.

MAKE AHEAD: If you’re making hot dogs for a party, you can begin making these up to an hour before you plan to serve them. Pre-cook the hot dogs and keep them warm in the oven or in a chafing dish until you’re ready to serve.

IN THE FRIDGE: To store leftover hot dogs in the fridge, place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil. They will last for about three to four days. For the buns, keep them in their original packaging to retain freshness, or transfer to a resealable bag if already opened.

IN THE FREEZER: You can freeze cooked hot dogs for up to two months. Wrap each hot dog individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.

HOW TO REHEAT: To reheat, simply place them in the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F until heated through.

If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave them for about 30 seconds to a minute, but be aware this might slightly alter their texture. If the buns have been stored in the fridge, you might want to toast them for 1-2 minutes in the air fryer to bring back their crispiness.

Why These Easy Air Fryer Hot Dogs Are The Best

This air fryer hot dogs recipe will quickly become a go-to recipe when you need a fast, tasty meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Here’s why it stands out and earns its place as one of our new family favorite recipes:

Quick and Convenient: One of the top reasons we love this recipe is its speed and convenience. Air Fryer Hot Dogs take only about 15 minutes from start to finish!

Minimal Cleanup: Your air fryer oven is easy to clean up and is a lot less hassle than other cooking methods. Unlike grilling or pan-frying, air frying hot dogs doesn’t splatter grease all over your stove or countertops.

Perfect for Any Occasion: From family movie nights to backyard BBQs or even a simple lunch, they provide a satisfying meal that’s sure to please a crowd.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it necessary to turn the hot dogs during cooking?

It’s not necessary, but you can turn them halfway through cooking if you want them to brown more evenly on all sides.

How can I prevent the hot dogs from bursting in the air fryer?

Make shallow cuts on the hot dogs before cooking them. This helps release steam and prevents them from bursting.

Can I cook frozen hot dogs in an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook frozen hot dogs in an air fryer. Extend the cooking time by about 3 minutes and ensure they are heated through before serving.

How long do you air fry hot dogs?

It typically takes about 4-5 minutes to cook hot dogs in an air fryer. Check them at the 4-minute mark to make sure they don’t overcook.

What temperature should I set my air fryer to for cooking hot dogs?

Set your air fryer to 400°F to ensure the hot dogs cook evenly and get a nice crispy exterior.

This Air Fryer Hot Dogs recipe is your secret weapon for a fast, delicious meal that’s also easy to clean up after. In just 15 minutes, enjoy a classic favorite with a crispy bite that everyone will love!

Hot Dogs topped with ketchup and mustard in an air fryer next to a bowl of chips

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