Barbecued Frank Sandwiches

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Juicy frankfurters are coated in a tangy applesauce and ketchup sauce, then simmered to perfection—ideal for quick, flavorful sandwiches perfect for casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 3 Tbsp. chopped onion
  • 3 to 4 frankfurters, thinly sliced
  • 2 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1 Tbsp. butter
  • 1/2 c. applesauce
  • 1/4 c. catsup
  • 1 Tbsp. brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Combine chopped onion and butter; simmer until tender.
  2. Add vinegar, salt, applesauce, catsup, brown sugar, and sliced frankfurters.
  3. Simmer, uncovered, for about 15 to 20 minutes.
  4. Serve on buns.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider caramelizing the onions longer than suggested. If you want a slightly spicy kick, try adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can substitute the frankfurters with vegetarian alternatives for a meat-free version. If fresh onions are too strong, use a pinch of onion powder instead.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Barbecued Frank Sandwiches on soft buns, and consider adding toppings like shredded cheese, pickles, or coleslaw for extra crunch. They pair wonderfully with a side of potato chips or a fresh salad. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside a dish like Artichoke Dip In A Bread Basket for a casual gathering.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecued Frank Sandwiches contains roughly 273 calories, with 1g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1797mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).

273 kcal 14% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.2g 2% DV
Total Fat 15.4g 20% DV
Carbs 30.3g 11% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 24.9g 50% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1797.4mg 78% DV
Potassium 203.1mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 45.6mg 15% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 9.8mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 1.4mg 2% DV
Calcium 36.2mg 3% DV
Iron 0.8mg 5% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of sausage instead of frankfurters?

Absolutely! You can substitute the frankfurters with any type of sausage you prefer, such as turkey or chicken sausage, or for a vegetarian option, try plant-based sausages. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

What can I use instead of brown sugar?

If you don't have brown sugar on hand, you can use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses to replicate the flavor and moisture. Alternatively, honey or maple syrup can work as sweet substitutes, but adjust the quantity to taste.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

Yes! You can add diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the mixture for an added kick. Additionally, incorporating a teaspoon of smoked paprika can enhance the flavor profile and provide a subtle heat.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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