Mini Grilled Hot Dog Sliders Recipe

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Cook Time: 5 minutes

This easy and delicious hot dog recipe features tender King's Hawaiian rolls paired with perfectly grilled hot dogs and a variety of tasty toppings. Ideal for a summer barbecue or a simple meal, these hot dogs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 8 bun-length long hot dogs (such as Sabrett Skinless Frankfurters) or 12 regular-sized hot dogs
• 2 (12-pack packages) King's Hawaiian Rolls
• Assorted toppings (such as ketchup, mustard, relish, kraut, chili, cheese, and onions)

Directions

1. Gather all your ingredients and set them within easy reach for a smooth cooking process.
2. Use a large serrated knife to carefully slice the tops of each roll horizontally, making sure not to cut all the way through. You want the rolls to open like a pocket, but stay intact.
3. Preheat your outdoor grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grate to prevent sticking.
4. Place the hot dogs on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Make sure to turn them occasionally to ensure even grilling.
5. Once cooked, remove the hot dogs from the grill. If you're using bun-length hot dogs, cut them into thirds; for regular-sized hot dogs, cut them in half.
6. Carefully place each hot dog piece into the cut center of each roll. Pull the rolls apart slightly to secure the hot dog in place.
7. Serve your hot dogs with the toppings of your choice such as ketchup, mustard, relish, kraut, chili, cheese, and onions. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Each serving (1 hot dog) provides the following nutrients:

Nutrition	Per Serving	% Daily Value*
Total Fat	19g	24%
Saturated Fat	7g	35%
Cholesterol	32mg	11%
Sodium	743mg	32%
Total Carbohydrates	28g	10%
Dietary Fiber	2g	8%
Total Sugars	2g	-
Protein	11g	22%
Vitamin C	0mg	0%
Calcium	106mg	8%
Iron	3mg	15%
Potassium	199mg	4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The History of Mini Grilled Hot Dog Sliders

The mini grilled hot dog slider is a playful evolution of the classic American hot dog. Hot dogs themselves trace back to 19th-century German immigrants who introduced sausages like frankfurters and wieners to the United States. The slider concept, small sandwiches intended as appetizers or finger foods, gained popularity in mid-20th-century America. Combining these two ideas created a convenient, fun, and customizable dish that became a staple at parties, sports events, and casual gatherings.

Regional Characteristics

While hot dogs are widely consumed across the United States, regional variations influence how mini grilled sliders are prepared and served. In the Northeast, you might find sliders topped with sauerkraut and spicy mustard, reflecting German and Jewish culinary influences. In the South, they are often paired with chili, pickles, or barbecue-style sauces. Hawaiian rolls, like those used in this recipe, are especially popular in the West and California, adding a slightly sweet contrast to the savory sausage, demonstrating the dish's adaptability to local tastes.

How They Differ from Similar Dishes

Mini grilled hot dog sliders are distinct from traditional sliders or standard hot dogs primarily due to their size and presentation. Unlike a full-sized hot dog, these sliders are bite-sized and designed for easy sharing. Compared to hamburger sliders, the focus is on the sausage, allowing for simpler preparation while maintaining versatility with toppings. Their grill-cooked flavor also sets them apart from oven-baked mini hot dogs or pigs-in-a-blanket, providing a slightly smoky taste and crisp texture that enhances the eating experience.

Where They Are Typically Served

Mini grilled hot dog sliders are commonly served at casual gatherings, such as backyard barbecues, birthday parties, and sports events. Their small size makes them ideal for buffets, appetizer trays, and cocktail-style parties, where guests can sample multiple flavors without committing to a full meal. Many restaurants also feature them as part of kids' menus or as bar snacks, highlighting their versatility and universal appeal.

Interesting Facts

• The use of Hawaiian rolls in sliders adds a sweet and soft texture, a trend popularized in the early 2000s by home cooks seeking a unique twist on traditional sliders.
• Sliders were originally named for the sliding motion they were eaten in at diners and fast-food establishments, emphasizing convenience.
• Mini hot dog sliders allow for endless topping combinations, from classic mustard and ketchup to gourmet options like caramelized onions, jalapeo relish, or specialty cheeses.
• Grilling the sausages rather than boiling them enhances flavor through caramelization, giving these tiny sandwiches a taste profile closer to a full barbecue experience.
• They are often featured in competitive eating challenges in small portions, demonstrating the cultural fascination with both hot dogs and sliders in American cuisine.

FAQ about Mini Grilled Hot Dog Sliders Recipe

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