Air Fryer Crispy Hot Dogs: Quick, Easy, Delicious

Air fryers are a quick and easy way to cook hot dogs, giving them a crispy exterior and a juicy interior. The process is simple: preheat the air fryer, cook the hot dogs, and then cook the buns. The whole process should take no more than 10 minutes. For an extra crispy exterior, you can cut slits into the hot dogs before cooking. You can also add butter to the buns for extra flavour.

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in making crispy hot dogs. By heating the air fryer up to 400°F first, you'll get that perfect juicy and crispy hot dog texture. Depending on your air fryer, you can preheat by simply turning it on for 5-10 minutes.

It's also important to ensure that your hot dogs are in a single layer and not overlapping. They need plenty of room on all sides so they can cook evenly and get that nice charred exterior all around.

If you're cooking for a larger group, you may need to cook the hot dogs in batches. Most air fryers can hold up to 6-8 hot dogs, but once they're in the buns, you'll likely only be able to fit 4 hot dogs in the basket.

Keep in mind that the preheating time may vary depending on your air fryer model, so always refer to the manufacturer's instructions.

By preheating your air fryer to 400°F, you'll be one step closer to enjoying delicious, crispy hot dogs with that perfect snap!

Cut slits in the hot dogs

To make crispy hot dogs in an air fryer, you'll want to cut slits in the hot dogs before cooking. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Place the hot dogs on a cutting board: Before you start cutting, it's important to have a stable surface to work on. Place your desired number of hot dogs on a clean, dry cutting board.
• Cut slits into the hot dogs: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut slits into each hot dog. Make about 4-5 slits on the top of each one. Don't cut too deeply; you just want to slightly break the surface of the hot dog with the knife. This step is optional, but it adds a nice crisp texture to the hot dogs and helps hold toppings.
• Prepare the air fryer: Set your air fryer to the desired temperature and preheat it if needed. Most recipes suggest cooking hot dogs in an air fryer at around 400°F.
• Place the hot dogs in the air fryer: Arrange the slit hot dogs in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure they don't overlap. This ensures even cooking and that nice charred exterior.
• Cook the hot dogs: Depending on the thickness of your hot dogs, cook them for 4-6 minutes at 400°F. For thinner hot dogs, 4 minutes should be enough, while thicker ones might need up to 6 minutes.
• Add the buns (optional): If you want to toast your hot dog buns, you can add them to the air fryer after removing the cooked hot dogs. Place the hot dogs in the buns and return them to the air fryer for an additional 1-2 minutes. This step is optional, and you can also warm the buns in a microwave if you prefer them softer.
• Serve: Once the hot dogs are cooked to your desired level of doneness, serve them with your favorite condiments and toppings!

Remember, the number of slits and cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer and personal preferences, but this guide should give you a good starting point for making delicious, crispy hot dogs in your air fryer!

Cook the hot dogs for 4-6 minutes

Now it's time to cook the hot dogs! Place the hot dogs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overlapping. This is important as it allows the hot dogs to cook evenly and get that nice charred exterior all around. Depending on the thickness of your hot dogs, the cooking time will vary. For skinny hot dogs, cook for around 4 minutes, and for thicker hot dogs, cook for 6 to 8 minutes. If you prefer your hot dogs less browned, cooking them at 380°F for about 5 minutes will do the trick.

While the hot dogs are cooking, you can prepare any side dishes or toppings you desire. Some classic toppings include mustard, ketchup, relish, and onions, but feel free to get creative! You can also wrap the hot dogs in bacon or top them with chili and cheese for an extra indulgent treat.

Keep an eye on your hot dogs as they cook, and once they are glistening hot and slightly browned, they are ready to be devoured! Remove them from the air fryer using tongs or a fork, and if you're feeling extra indulgent, place them in a toasted bun with your desired toppings. Enjoy!

Add buns and cook for another 1-2 minutes

Once you've cooked your hot dogs in the air fryer, it's time to toast the buns! Place the hot dogs in their buns and put them back into the air fryer. You may only be able to fit one or two at a time, depending on the size of your air fryer.

Set the air fryer for 1-2 minutes to toast the buns. If you like, you can add a slice of cheese to the hot dog before placing it in the bun. The cheese will melt as the bun toasts, creating a delicious, gooey topping.

After 1-2 minutes, your buns should be toasted to perfection—slightly crispy on the edges and lightly toasted all around. Repeat this process until all your hot dogs are ready to be served.

Now, your hot dogs are ready to be enjoyed! You can top them with your favourite condiments, such as mustard, ketchup, relish, or sauerkraut. Enjoy your crispy, juicy air-fried hot dogs!

Top with your favourite condiments

Now for the fun part: toppings! The beauty of hot dogs is that they are a blank canvas for your favourite condiments and toppings. Here are some ideas to get you started:

The Classic

You can't go wrong with the classics: ketchup, mustard, and relish. Add some chopped onions for a little extra crunch and flavour. If you're feeling adventurous, try a different type of mustard like honey mustard or dijon mustard.

Chili Cheese Dog

Top your hot dog with leftover chili, canned chili, or make your own homemade chili dog sauce. Don't forget to add some shredded cheddar cheese on top! You can also add diced white onions for a little extra kick.

Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dog

Take your hot dog to the next level by wrapping it in a strip of crispy bacon. You can adjust the cooking time depending on how crispy you like your bacon. Don't forget to add your favourite condiments on top!

Cole Slaw Dog

If you're looking for something a little different, try topping your hot dog with creamy cole slaw. You can make your own or buy it pre-made. Add some chopped onions and your favourite type of mustard for even more flavour.

The Works

Why stop at one topping when you can have them all? Load up your hot dog with BBQ sauce, jalapeños, mayo, ranch, bacon crumbles, cheese, sautéed veggies, or sauerkraut. You can even add a scoop of Instant Pot Chili and mix things up!

Remember, these are just suggestions – feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations of toppings to find your favourite. Happy air frying!

Frequently asked questions