Hot dogs are easily morphed into different delicious meals. Who says hot dogs are just for kids? And who says hot dogs must be eaten only in a bun? You can make hot dog dishes fun and youthful or sophisticated and mature. For best results, purchase hot dogs that contain chicken or turkey. Both of these varieties are healthier than pork or beef hot dogs, and they cost less, too.
Use Macaroni
A great way to serve hot dogs to your children is by pairing the dogs with macaroni. If you're pressed for time, whip up a box of macaroni and when it's cooked, add chopped pieces of hot dogs along with the cheese sauce. Sprinkle with paprika, serve a tossed green salad on the side and voila! You've got an instant meal for the kids.
Hot Dogs and Beans
Hot dogs are delicious with beans. There's no good reason to buy beanie weenies when you can make a batch. Heat a large can of your favorite beans (ranch-style and baked beans work best), add two or three hot dogs (chopped into small pieces) and heat well. Serve topped with shredded cheddar cheese, minced green onions and freshly ground black pepper.
Old Favorites and New Twists
You can put a twist on traditional hot dogs by wrapping them up in a flour tortilla. Spread mayonnaise on the tortilla. Heat the hot dog for about ten seconds in the microwave and lay it in the middle of the tortilla. Add shredded cabbage and green onion slices. Top with salsa.
An old favorite hot dog meal is to purchase refrigerated dinner rolls and wrap half of a hot dog in each one. For an extra surprise, add a slice of cheese, too. Bake according to package directions. Serve with tomato soup.
All of these hot dog meal ideas are easy to prepare and cook quickly. When you're trying to appease picky eaters, serve up homemade love using the humble hot dog!