The 10 Best Sauces for Hot Dogs

Hot dogs are a classic American food.

Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or grabbing one on the go, this simple dish is always a crowd-pleaser.

But why settle for plain hot dogs when you can dress them up with delicious sauces?

From ketchup and mustard to chili and cheese, there are so many different flavors that make hot dogs even better.

But which sauce should you choose?

The best sauces for hot dogs are classic ketchup and mustard, relish, chili sauce, cheese sauce and BBQ sauce. If you want something more exotic, try banana ketchup or a homemade salsa. For a healthy option mix avocado with lime juice and hot pepper flakes.

In this article, I’m going to share my top 10 favorite sauces for hot dogs.

Get ready to take your next cookout to the next level!

Why Is Using A Sauce on Hot Dogs Important?

Using a sauce on hot dogs is an important part of the overall flavor and texture experience.

A good sauce can add complexity, depth, and richness to the classic hot dog.

Here are three reasons why using a sauce on hot dogs is important:

• Flavor – Sauce adds layers of flavor that you wouldn’t get from just plain ketchup or mustard. For example, adding BBQ sauce to your hot dog will give it smoky notes that pair perfectly with the savory flavors of the sausage itself.
• Texture – Sauces also add texture to your hot dog by providing a creamy element that contrasts nicely with the crunchy bun and snap of the sausage casing. This contrast in textures makes for an enjoyable eating experience!
• Variety – Finally, sauces provide variety when it comes to topping your hot dog; there are so many different types available that you can mix and match them depending on what flavors you’re in the mood for! From sweet chili sauces to spicy mustards, there’s something out there for everyone’s taste buds!

The 10 Best Sauces for Hot Dogs

Hot dogs are a classic and delicious meal, but they can become even more flavorful when paired with the right sauce.

Here are ten sauces that will take your hot dog to the next level:

1. Mustard

Mustard is a condiment made from the seeds of various mustard plants.

The whole, ground, cracked, or bruised mustard seeds are mixed with water, vinegar, lemon juice, wine, or other liquids and salt to create a paste or sauce ranging in color from bright yellow to dark brown.

• To Make It: To make mustard at home you will need mustard powder (ground up dried mustard seeds), liquid (water or vinegar) and seasonings such as salt and sugar. Mix the ingredients together until they form a thick paste. You can also use prepared mustards as an ingredient in your own recipes for added flavor.
• Common Uses: Mustard is most commonly used as a condiment on hot dogs and sandwiches but it can also be used in sauces for meats like pork chops and chicken wings. It’s also great for adding flavor to salads dressings and marinades.

2. Ketchup

Ketchup is a condiment made from tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, and spices.

It is typically used as a topping for hot dogs, hamburgers, french fries, and other foods.

• To Make It: Ketchup can be made at home by combining tomato paste with vinegar, sugar or honey, salt and pepper to taste. Other ingredients such as onion powder or garlic powder may also be added for flavor. The mixture should then be simmered over low heat until it thickens and the flavors have blended together.
• Common Uses: Ketchup is most commonly used as a condiment on hot dogs and hamburgers but it can also be used in recipes such as meatloaf or chili con carne. It can also be used to make sauces for chicken wings or fish sticks. Additionally, ketchup can be used to add flavor to scrambled eggs or omelets.

3. Relish

Relish is a condiment made from chopped vegetables, fruits, and spices.

It is typically used to add flavor and texture to hot dogs, hamburgers, sandwiches, salads, and other dishes.

• To Make It: To make relish at home you will need the following ingredients: cucumbers (or other vegetables such as peppers or onions), vinegar, sugar or honey, salt and pepper. Start by washing the cucumbers (or other vegetables) then cut them into small cubes. Place the cubes in a bowl with vinegar and let sit for about an hour. Then drain off the excess liquid before adding sugar or honey to sweeten it up. Finally season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Common Uses: Relish can be used as a topping on hot dogs or hamburgers; it can also be added to sandwiches for extra flavor; it can be mixed into potato salad for more crunch; it can even be served alongside grilled meats like steak or chicken; lastly it can also be used as an ingredient in sauces such as tartar sauce or Thousand Island dressing.

4. BBQ Sauce

BBQ sauce is a type of condiment made from tomato paste, vinegar, and spices.

It is used to add flavor to grilled or smoked meats such as ribs, chicken, pork, and beef.

The sauce can be either sweet or spicy depending on the ingredients used in its preparation.

• To Make It: To make BBQ sauce at home you will need tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder (optional), paprika (optional), cayenne pepper (optional), black pepper (optional) and salt. Combine all the ingredients in a medium-sized bowl and whisk until smooth. Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings if desired.
• Common Uses: BBQ sauce is most commonly used as a marinade for meats before grilling or smoking them. It can also be served as a dipping sauce for hot dogs or other sandwiches. Additionally it can be added to slow cooker recipes for extra flavor or brushed onto cooked meats during the last few minutes of cooking time for an extra layer of flavor.

5. Mayo

Mayo, or mayonnaise, is a thick and creamy condiment made from oil, egg yolks, lemon juice or vinegar, and seasonings.

It is typically used as a spread on sandwiches and burgers, but it can also be used to make salads and dressings.

• To Make It: To make mayo at home you will need an electric mixer or blender. Start by combining the egg yolks with the mustard powder in a bowl. Slowly add the oil while mixing until it forms an emulsion. Then add the lemon juice or vinegar and seasonings to taste. Mix until all ingredients are combined into a thick sauce-like consistency.
• Common Uses: Mayo is most commonly used as a spread for sandwiches and burgers but it can also be used to make salads such as potato salad or tuna salad; dressings such as Thousand Island dressing; sauces such as tartar sauce; dips such as onion dip; marinades for meats; and even desserts like chocolate mousse!

6. Hot Dog Chili

Hot dog chili is a type of chili sauce made specifically for hot dogs.

It is usually made with ground beef, tomato paste, and spices such as cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

The flavor of the chili can vary depending on the recipe used.

• To Make It: To make hot dog chili at home, start by browning ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the beef has cooked through, add in tomato paste and spices such as cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir to combine all ingredients together and let simmer for 10 minutes or until desired consistency is reached.
• Common Uses: Hot dog chili is most commonly served on top of hot dogs or sausages but can also be used as a topping for nachos or tacos. It can also be used as an ingredient in other dishes such as macaroni and cheese or sloppy joes.

7. Salsa

Salsa is a type of condiment or sauce made from tomatoes, onions, peppers, and other ingredients.

It is typically served as an accompaniment to Mexican dishes such as tacos and burritos.

The word salsa comes from the Spanish word for ‘sauce.’

• To Make It: To make salsa at home, you will need fresh tomatoes, onion, garlic cloves, jalapeno peppers (or other hot peppers), cilantro leaves (optional), lime juice or vinegar (for acidity), salt and pepper to taste. All the ingredients are chopped finely and then mixed together in a bowl.
• Common Uses: Salsa can be used as a dip for chips or vegetables; it can also be added to sandwiches or wraps for extra flavor; it can be used as a topping on grilled meats such as chicken or steak; it can also be used in place of tomato sauce when making pizza; finally, it makes an excellent topping for hot dogs!

8. Hot Sauce

Hot sauce is a condiment made from chili peppers, vinegar, and other ingredients.

It can range in flavor from mild to extremely spicy and is used to add heat and flavor to dishes.

• To Make It: Hot sauce can be made at home by combining chili peppers with vinegar or citrus juice, garlic, salt, sugar, herbs, spices, and other ingredients. The mixture is then simmered until the desired consistency is reached.
• Common Uses: Hot sauce is most commonly used as a condiment for hot dogs and hamburgers but it can also be used as an ingredient in marinades or sauces for meats or vegetables. It’s also often added to soups or stews for extra flavor.

9. Cheese Sauce

Cheese sauce is a creamy, cheesy condiment made from melted cheese and other ingredients such as butter, milk, cream, and seasonings.

It can be used to top hot dogs or other dishes like macaroni and cheese.

• To Make It: To make cheese sauce, start by melting butter in a pan over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add flour and whisk until it forms a paste. Then slowly add milk while whisking continuously until the mixture thickens. Add grated cheese of your choice (cheddar is most common) and stir until it melts into the sauce. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Common Uses: Cheese sauce is commonly served with hot dogs or bratwursts as an alternative to ketchup or mustard. It can also be used as a topping for nachos or tacos, stirred into macaroni and cheese for extra creaminess, poured over steamed vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower for added flavor, or even used as a dip for chips or pretzels!

10. Sweet and Sour Sauce

Sweet and Sour Sauce is a condiment made from a combination of sweet and sour ingredients, such as sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic, ginger, and other spices.

It is commonly used in Chinese cuisine to add flavor to dishes like pork or chicken.

• To Make It: To make Sweet and Sour Sauce at home you will need the following ingredients: 1/2 cup white sugar; 1/4 cup white vinegar; 2 tablespoons ketchup; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ground ginger. In a small bowl mix together the sugar, vinegar, ketchup and soy sauce until combined. In a separate bowl mix together the cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of water until dissolved. Heat up a medium-sized pan over medium heat then add the sugar mixture followed by the cornstarch mixture. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes or until it thickens into a syrup-like consistency. Add in the garlic powder and ground ginger then stir for another minute before removing from heat. Let cool before serving or storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
• Common Uses: Sweet and Sour Sauce can be served as an accompaniment to hot dogs or sausages on buns or rolls with your favorite toppings such as onions, pickles, and mustard. It can also be used as a dipping sauce, such as for chicken tenders or egg rolls. Sweet and Sour Sauce is also commonly used in Chinese cuisine as a flavoring for dishes such as pork or chicken.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hot dogs are a classic summer staple, but sometimes they can get a little boring.

To add flavor and some excitement to your next hot dog, try out one of these 10 sauces.

Mustard, ketchup, relish, BBQ sauce, mayo, chili, salsa, hot sauce, cheese sauce, and sweet and sour sauce are all great options to add some zing to your hot dog. Whether you like it spicy, tangy, or sweet, each of these sauces will give your hot dog a unique kick.

So, don’t be afraid to try something new and get creative with your hot dogs.

With so many delicious sauces to choose from, you’re sure to find a new favorite.