Bloodhounds
Bloodhounds are hearty, cheesy hot dogs topped with seasoned ground beef and vegetables, perfect for casual gatherings or comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and drain well.
- Season the beef with salt, pepper, garlic salt, and oregano (if using).
- Add chopped celery, diced onion, diced green pepper, and one jar of pizza sauce.
- Simmer until the vegetables are tender.
- Split the hot dog buns.
- Cover each bun with the meat mixture.
- Add one tablespoon of pizza sauce to each filled bun.
- Top with cheese of your choice.
- Bake at 350°F until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, try adding diced jalapeños or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture. If fresh vegetables aren't available, frozen mixed vegetables can be substituted. Consider using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, to enhance the dish. To save time, you can prepare the meat mixture ahead and assemble the buns just before baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Bloodhounds are perfect for a casual gathering or game day. Serve with a side of crispy potato wedges or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. They also pair well with a tangy coleslaw. For a fun twist, consider serving them alongside a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Bloodhounds can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings for about 1-2 minutes, but the oven will keep the buns crispier.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bloodhounds contains roughly 128 calories, with 4g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (93% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (71% of the Daily Value), and calcium (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 20g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, since leaner meats may cook faster. Additionally, you can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
What kind of pizza sauce is best for this recipe?
Any store-bought pizza sauce will work well, but for a homemade touch, try using a marinara sauce with added herbs. Look for sauces that have good flavor and a balance of sweetness and acidity, as this will enhance the overall taste of the Bloodhounds.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply fill the buns and bake. This makes them a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.
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).