Miller’s Ultimate Summer Hot Dog

^{This post has been sponsored by Miller's Banana Pepper Sauce. All opinions expressed are my own.}

Miller’s Ultimate Summer Hot Dog features bold flavor, a spicy kick, and no fuss. We swap out the usual ketchup or mustard for a generous drizzle of Miller’s Banana Pepper Sauce to bring a delicious, chili-flavor-infused kick to a classic cookout favorite.

This recipe is a simple upgrade over a traditional classic that’s perfect for backyard BBQs, quick lunches, picnics, or as part of a game day spread. Best of all, it doesn’t skimp on indulgence. Instead, we’re combining juicy hot dogs fresh from the grill with toasted buns, melted cheddar, and Miller’s Banana Pepper goodness.

Now, without further introduction, let’s grill some hot dogs. Read on for a complete ingredient checklist, a recipe overview, my top tips for the perfect hot dogs, and a printable recipe card.

What to Expect – Recipe Overview

Taste and Texture: This recipe aims to deliver a bold and spicy kick to a traditional picnic favorite. We’re combining the smoky char from the grill with the banana pepper goodness of Miller’s Banana Pepper Sauce, which replaces the need for ketchup or mustard. Optional toppings like grilled onions and shredded cheddar add depth and contrast. Each bite offers heat, crunch, and juicy meatiness packed into a perfectly toasted bun.

Difficulty Level: Super simple. Any good hot dog recipe should be accessible to home chefs of all skill levels, and today’s is no exception. Miller’s Ultimate Hot Dogs are ideal for quick lunches, casual dinners, or backyard cookouts. We’re using only simple ingredients and simple grilling techniques. Nothing fancy or complicated. Just grill the hot dogs, layer on the ingredients, and you’re good.

Preparation Process: Prepping this hot dog recipe couldn’t be easier, and comes down to just a few simple steps.

• Grill: Begin the recipe by grilling your hot dogs. Simple.
• Toast: Then open the bun and toast. Personally, I prefer my bun warmed but still soft, as this helps it stay together while still allowing it to absorb some of the hot sauce and hot dog juices, but without becoming soggy.
• (Optional) Other Toppings: If you’re prepping grilled onions or dicing up tomatoes, this is when to do it.
• Layer: Spread the Miller’s Banana Pepper Sauce on the bun, followed by the hot dog, and then layer on your preferred toppings.
• Close: Then close the bun, and enjoy.

Pairings: All your favorite grilling and picnic pairings apply. That said, here are a few of my go-to sides and beverages for hot dogs.

• Sides: French fries, a creamy potato salad, or onion rings would all be delicious pairings.
• Drinks: A cold beer or a homemade iced tea would be my go-to beverages.
• Salads: A refreshing fruit salad or a simple coleslaw.

Ingredients – Miller’s Ultimate Hot Dogs

• 4 all-beef hot dogs
  • Note: I’m using all-natural, non-cured beef hot dogs.
  • Tip: I do recommend natural-casing hot dogs for the best snap and flavor. Really, though, just choose a decent brand and that will get the job done just fine.
• 4 hot dog buns
  • Note: I’m using brioche buns, but any hot dog bun works for today’s recipe, from plain white or potato buns to your favorite bakery-style buns. Any bun that holds up well with toppings will get the job done.
  • Tips: As mentioned above, I do suggest lightly toasting the bun to add texture and help prevent sogginess.
• Miller’s Banana Pepper Sauce (to taste)
  • Skip the Ketchup: For this recipe, Miller’s Banana Pepper Sauce replaces traditional ketchup or mustard. This award-winning Banana Pepper Sauce is made with vine-ripened peppers that have been picked at the peak of their freshness, creating a sweet and spicy sauce with bold flavor. Use more or less depending on your spice preference.
  • Note: Unlike traditional ketchup or mustard, Miller’s Banana Pepper Sauce adds depth, spice, some color, and delicious chili flavor. What’s more, it cuts right through the richness of the hot dog, becoming the star of the show in and of itself, with just the right amount of heat and acidity. You can find Miller's Banana Pepper Sauces at your local Whole Foods, Wegmans, or order online on Amazon.
• 1 small onion, sliced (optional)
  • Note: Completely optional, I like to grill my onions for a sweet and savory flavor, to help mellow the oniony bite while bringing the natural sugars to the forefront.
  • Tip: Red onions bring some color and a punchier flavor, while white or yellow onions will generally caramelize better. Basically, red onions and sweet onions if eating them raw, white and yellow onions for grilling.
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Note: I’m using plain white cheddar since it melts well and pairs nicely with grilled foods.
  • Substitution: You’re cheese of choice. Pepper jack for added heat or mozzarella for a milder option.

Seven Tips for Making the Perfect Hot Dog

1. Toast the Buns: A quick toasting of the buns really does help them hold together better and prevents them from becoming soggy.
2. Grill the Hotdogs for Maximum Flavor: Grilling brings smoky flavor and savory char, which really can’t be replicated any other way, and grill marks always work to heighten presentation. Just remember to rotate them a few times.
3. Don’t Skimp on the Sauce: Let’s be real here, Miller’s Banana Pepper Sauce is the star here, so don’t skimp on that banana pepper goodness. Spread it generously on both sides of the bun, and then give a quick drizzle on top.
4. Add Optional Toppings for Color and Texture: My go-to topping is grilled onions for some added savory-sweet contrast. Of course, shredded cheese, greens, or even salsa or diced tomatoes would all work great.
5. Use the Stove: Short on time? There’s no saying you can’t achieve grill marks and char using a cast iron pan or griddle.
6. Use Quality Hot Dogs and Buns: As mentioned above, start with a good hot dog for best results. Choose all-beef hot dogs and bakery-style buns for a deli-worthy experience.
7. Customize to Taste: These hot dogs are a perfect base for experimentation: try adding coleslaw, jalapeños, or pickles to make it your own.

Miller's Ultimate Summer Hot Dog Video

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And that’s Miller’s Ultimate Summer Hot Dog.  If you enjoyed today’s recipe or have any questions or suggestions, be sure to let us know in the comments below.  We always love hearing from you!

Happy Grilling!

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