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How to Boil Hot Dogs

Learn how to boil hot dogs in just 10 minutes from start to finish. A quick and kid-friendly lunch idea that’s so simple to make! 

Hot dog on white plate with ketchup.
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How to Quickly and Easily Boil Hot Dogs

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

Now I know most of you don’t need a recipe for this, but since I get a lot of requests for easy lunch ideas for kids during the summer, I thought I would share one of our go to’s. Boiled hot dogs are so easy to make and are the perfect simple lunch option for when you don’t feel like cooking.

When grilling isn’t an option (or there isn’t room on the grill) it’s nice to be able to boil them instead. They’re super easy to make on the stove and only take 10 minutes from start to finish. Then place them on top of a toasted bun and add all your favorite toppings!

Boiling frozen hot dog in water.

How Long to Boil Hot Dogs

Because they are already cooked, it doesn’t take long to boil them. Simply add them to a large pot of boiling water and cook over medium-high heat for about 4 to 5 minutes. They will be fully heated through at this point. Using tongs, remove them from the pot and then place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess water.

Boiling frozen hot dogs

We always have a package or two in the freezer and it’s super easy to pull them out and boil them. Simply add the frozen hot dog to the boiling water and cook for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

Hot dogs lined on a paper towel lined plate.

Topping Ideas

There are so many hot dog toppings that we love to add. In the summer we even love doing a hot dog toppings bar. Below are a few of our favorites:

  • Onions
  • Tomatoes
  • Jalapenos
  • Relish
  • Ketchup
  • Mustard
  • BBQ sauce
Hot dog with ketchup on white plate.

Favorite Sides Dishes for Serving

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hot dog on white plate

Boiling Hot Dogs

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Author: Jamielyn Nye
Learn how to boil hot dogs in just 10 minutes from start to finish. A quick and kid-friendly lunch idea that's so simple to make! 
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 7

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!

      Notes

      Tip: Place the buns in a toaster oven or broil for a minute to toast them before serving. 

      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.

      Course: Main Dish
      Cuisine: American

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