Baked Burger Dogs Recipe

Baked Burger Dogs Recipe

Cook Time: 25 minutes

These fun-to-eat, hot dog-shaped cheeseburgers are baked in the oven, and theyre a perfect choice if the cookout gets rained out and youre stuck inside. Theyre also great when you want to impress your guests with something a little different. And as I joked about in the video, maybe confuse your kids. Oh, theyll love these, but theyll definitely have questions. The taste and texture might remind you of White Castle burgers, in case that helps seal the deal. Their little steamed burger has quite the cult following, and if this burger dog became the signature sandwich at a new fast-food chain, I think the same phenomenon would occur. Anyway, I loved how this experiment turned out, and I really hope you give them a try soon. Enjoy!

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons melted butter or oil, divided
  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/3 cup finely diced red onion
  • 1/3 cup diced dill or sweet pickles, well drained
  • 6 ounces Cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
  • 8 hot dog buns

Directions

  1. Gather all the ingredients and preheat your oven to 450F (230C).
  2. Grease a large 15x10-inch casserole dish with 1 tablespoon of melted butter or oil.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, red onion, pickles, and 4 ounces of shredded cheese. Use a fork to mix until everything is evenly incorporated.
  4. Divide the beef mixture into 8 equal portions. Using damp fingers, shape each portion into a log and gently press it onto the bottom of a hot dog bun.
  5. Lightly press the bun together to trap the meat inside, then place the stuffed bun in the prepared casserole dish with the meat side facing up. Repeat this for all 8 buns.
  6. Brush all exposed areas of the buns with the remaining 1 tablespoon of melted butter or oil.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining 2 ounces of shredded cheese evenly over the buns.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the meat is no longer pink in the center and the buns are golden brown and crispy on the edges. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center of the meat should read 160F (70C).
  9. Serve immediately with your favorite burger and hot dog toppings and condiments.

Nutrition Facts

Each serving contains:

  • Calories: 516
  • Total Fat: 27g (35% DV)
  • Saturated Fat: 12g (60% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 104mg (35% DV)
  • Sodium: 719mg (31% DV)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 32g (12% DV)
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g (5% DV)
  • Total Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 34g (68% DV)
  • Vitamin C: 1mg (1% DV)
  • Calcium: 283mg (22% DV)
  • Iron: 4mg (25% DV)
  • Potassium: 438mg (9% DV)

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

Baked Burger Dogs Recipe

The History of Baked Burger Dogs

Baked Burger Dogs are a modern twist on two classic American foods: the hamburger and the hot dog. While the hamburger traces its origins to the late 19th century in the United States, inspired by minced beef dishes from Germany, the hot dog evolved around the same period as a convenient, portable sausage in a bun. The idea of combining these two staples into a baked, hot dog-shaped burger likely emerged in the 20th century as home cooks experimented with playful and kid-friendly variations of familiar comfort foods. These hybrid creations reflect a broader trend in American cuisine toward mashups and creative presentations that delight both the eye and the palate.

Regional Variations and Features

Baked Burger Dogs are most commonly found in the United States, particularly in regions known for casual family dining and backyard cookouts. Variations often reflect local ingredient preferences: in the Midwest, sweet pickles or onions may be emphasized, while coastal regions might incorporate specialty cheeses or spices. In some areas, brioche or pretzel-style hot dog buns are used for extra richness, whereas in more traditional settings, standard hot dog buns suffice. Even the choice of cheese varies by region, with cheddar dominating in many areas, but Swiss or pepper jack appearing in fusion versions.

How They Differ from Similar Dishes

At first glance, Baked Burger Dogs may appear similar to corn dogs or standard baked sliders, but there are key differences. Unlike corn dogs, the beef is the main protein rather than a sausage, and there is no batter coatingthese are purely baked. Compared to traditional hamburgers, Baked Burger Dogs offer a unique shape that fits snugly into a hot dog bun, creating a convenient handheld meal. Unlike sliders, which are small and typically served on mini buns, these burger dogs maintain a full-sized portion while incorporating the novelty of a tubular shape and melted cheese topping.

Typical Serving Occasions

Baked Burger Dogs are often served at casual gatherings, indoor cookouts, and family dinners. They are popular for kids parties due to their fun shape and approachable flavors. They can also appear on picnic menus, potlucks, or as an inventive lunch option. Restaurants occasionally offer them as a limited-time feature to attract diners looking for comfort food with a playful presentation. They pair well with classic condiments such as ketchup, mustard, pickles, or even chili and cheese for a more indulgent version.

Interesting Facts

  • The concept of merging burgers and hot dogs into a single dish plays on both nostalgia and novelty, appealing to fans of both iconic foods.
  • Some variations mimic the look of White Castle sliders, with finely chopped onions and compact meat, making them visually reminiscent of the fast-food classic.
  • Baked Burger Dogs are versatile: they can be made with vegetarian substitutes, such as plant-based crumbles, without losing their signature shape and flavor.
  • Despite being baked, the buns often achieve a slightly crisp edge while keeping the interior soft, a texture that home bakers find surprisingly satisfying.
  • These sandwiches are an example of the American love for hybrid foodscombining elements of multiple dishes into one creative, Instagram-worthy meal.
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FAQ about Baked Burger Dogs Recipe

Leftover baked burger dogs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave them or place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Yes, you can freeze baked burger dogs. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake in the oven until heated through.

Yes, you can use different types of cheese based on your preference. Cheddar works well, but mozzarella, American, or Swiss cheeses are also great alternatives. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well.

If the buns get too soggy, you can try toasting them lightly before assembling the burger dogs. Alternatively, you can bake them for a few extra minutes to allow the buns to become crispy. You can also try draining the pickles more thoroughly to prevent excess moisture.

To make the recipe healthier, you can use leaner ground beef (such as 90% lean), substitute whole wheat buns, or opt for low-fat cheese. Additionally, you can add more veggies, like finely chopped spinach or mushrooms, into the beef mixture for added nutrients.

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives like veggie crumbles or a plant-based burger patty. Be sure to choose a product that has a similar texture to ground beef so it holds together well in the buns.

While hot dog buns are traditional for this recipe, you can use other types of bread, such as sandwich rolls, baguettes, or even pita pockets. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold the burger mixture and bake evenly.

Greasing the baking dish helps prevent the buns from sticking to the dish as they bake. It also ensures that the buns crisp up nicely on the edges, making them more enjoyable to eat.

If you don't have a 15x10-inch casserole dish, you can use a baking sheet or any other oven-safe dish large enough to fit the stuffed buns. Just make sure the buns are placed close together to hold their shape during baking.

To ensure the burger dogs are fully cooked, use an instant-read thermometer. The internal temperature of the meat should reach 160°F (70°C). The buns should also be golden brown and crispy on the edges.

Comments

RosyBrie7159

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

I was reluctant to try this recipe. I figured surely the hamburger meat (80/20) would be way too greasy to keep the hotdog roll together. It was wonderful! What a nice change. No, it’s not a grilled hamburger, but it was really good!

SpiffyRye7965

06/15/2024 07:38:02 AM

I gave a four star rating because with my changes, it may not have been perfect. The recipe turned out very well but I used ingredients on hand that probably changed the end result. I had frozen ground beef; approx 1.5-2lbs. I substituted vidalia onion. I used a Mt. Olive whole pickle. My diced pickle was a bit too large. I didn’t have the right size pan. Mine was too large and could have fit double the recipe. I used foil to keep the buns close together like chef John’s baking dish. I believe I used too much ground beef as the meat wasnt cooked at the 25 min mark. I forgot to add the additional cheese on top initially, but when I checked at 25 minute mark, I added the cheese on top. It took 35 minutes in the oven. My burger filling overworked or old from being from the freezer. Some of the burgers has cracks in the shape. The meal was very good. The kids turned their noses to the appearance. Hubby ate 2 and I ate 1, as we try to watch portion control. I plan to reheat leftovers for lunch tomorrow. I was confused that CJ added Worcestershire in his video but it wasn’t listed on this recipe. I did add it because. I prefer to follow CJ’s videos. Recommend for everyone to try. Love this recipe because I had all ingredients on hand. I would try the recipe again and I added it to my recipe book.

CleverYak8036

11/19/2024 02:40:57 AM

The bread was beyond edible? How can you cook hot dog buns at 450 for 25 minutes?

ryan

01/14/2025 10:56:03 PM

I made it exactly as the recipe called for and used brioche hot dog buns…absolutely delicious!

DreamyStock4699

03/23/2025 09:56:42 PM

I really like this recipe, and so do the guys I take care of!!!! The only thing is the bottom of bun is always really greasy and soggy, what can I do differently??

Christine

06/05/2025 11:16:39 PM

What a fun idea for burgers! We liked the flavors of the "hot dogs" with the pickles and the cheese on top. Easy to make too.

Dallas mosque48

06/19/2024 08:45:59 PM

I just used veggie crumbles. No ground beef at all. I am a vegan. I vegan butter called earth balance.

Brian Davis

06/12/2024 01:34:29 AM

Quick, easy, and really flavorful.

Bubbe

06/06/2024 01:53:49 AM

Made for hubby, granddaughter and her friend. They all said it was amazing!