Boiled hot dogs are ready in just 5 minutes and make the perfect quick lunch or easy weeknight dinner. A simple stovetop method the whole family will love.

Boiled hot dog recipe on white plate with ketchup.

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Why I Love this Boiled Hot Dogs Recipe

My kids love hot dogs, and I definitely don’t mind because they couldn’t be easier to whip up on the stove. We even cut them up sometimes to make mini corn dog muffins. So yummy!

I know most of you don’t need a recipe for how to boil hot dogs, but I get a lot of requests for easy kid-friendly lunch ideas, especially in the summer. This boiled hot dogs recipe is one of our go-to’s. It’s simple, quick, and perfect for those days when you just don’t feel like cooking.

When grilling isn’t an option, boiling is the way to go. They come together in just 10 minutes on the stovetop. Just add your favorite toppings and a toasted bun and you’re done!

XO - Jamielyn

How to Boil Hot Dogs

Showing how to boil hot dogs from frozen in boiling water.

How Long to Boil Hot Dogs

Since hot dogs are already fully cooked, they just need to be heated through. Add them to a large pot of boiling water and cook over medium-high heat for 4 to 5 minutes. Remove with tongs and place on a paper towel lined plate to absorb any excess water.

Boiling Frozen Hot Dogs

We always keep a package or two in the freezer, so this comes in handy a lot! Just add the frozen hot dogs straight to the boiling water and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until heated through. No thawing needed!

Showing a perfectly boiled hot dog and then hot dogs resting on a plate.

Recipe Tips

  • Don’t over boil: Coking too long can change the texture, color and taste.
  • To prevent the skins from splitting, poke a few holes with a fork before adding to the water.
  • Toast your buns! Spread a little butter on the inside and broil for 1 to 2 minutes. Trust me, it makes a difference.

Hot Dog Topping Ideas

One of the best things about this boiled hot dogs recipe is loading them up with your favorite toppings! We love setting out a little toppings bar in the summer and letting everyone build their own. Here are some of our favorites:

  • Classic: ketchup, yellow mustard, relish
  • Savory: diced onions, sauerkraut, jalapeños, diced tomatoes
  • Indulgent: shredded cheddar cheese, chili, BBQ sauce
  • Fun for kids: crushed chips, honey mustard sauce

In the summer we love doing a full hot dog toppings bar, it’s such a fun way to let everyone customize their own! For Halloween, turn your hot dog into a mummy dog.

A boiled hot dog with ketchup on a white plate.

For a classic cookout spread, try serving them with crockpot baked beans and homemade mac and cheese. If you’re feeding kids, then you really can’t go wrong with a side of homemade french fries!

Favorite Sides Dishes for Serving

Showing a boiled hot dog on a bun with ketchup.

Boiled Hot Dogs Recipe

5 from 1 vote
Recipe by: Jamielyn Nye
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 7
Boiled hot dogs are ready in just 5 minutes and make the perfect quick lunch or easy weeknight dinner. A simple stovetop method the whole family will love.

Ingredients 

  • 7 hot dogs
  • 1 quart water

Pinch of salt

For serving: hot dog buns, ketchup, mustard, relish

Instructions

  • Add water to a large pot over medium-high heat. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil.
  • Add the hot dogs and boil for 4-5 minutes. If adding frozen hot dogs, cook for 8-10 minutes.
  • Remove with tongs and place on a paper towel lined plate. Add on top of a hot dog bun with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Last step: Please leave a comment and rating after you make the recipe.

Notes

Tip: Place the buns in a toaster oven or broil for a minute to toast them before serving. 
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.
Reheat in the microwave or add a splash of water to a skillet and steam until warmed through. Don’t store in buns or they’ll get soggy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1hot dog, Calories: 111kcal, Carbohydrates: 8g, Protein: 5g, Fat: 7g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Cholesterol: 20mg, Sodium: 316mg, Potassium: 66mg, Calcium: 16mg, Iron: 1mg

Nutrition provided is an estimate. It will vary based on specific ingredients used.