Dynamites
Dynamites are savory meat-filled hot dogs loaded with vegetables and bold spices, perfect for casual gatherings or quick family dinners with a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef, ground pork, beaten eggs, and bread crumbs together in a large bowl.
- Form the mixture into hot dog shapes.
- Dice green peppers, onions, and celery.
- Coat the bottom of a large pan with a small amount of oil and heat.
- Add diced onions to the pan and brown them.
- Add the browned onions, diced peppers, celery, tomato sauce, and tomato juice into a slow cooker.
- Place the shaped meat into the slow cooker with the vegetables and liquids.
- Add enough tomato juice to cover the meat entirely.
- Add cayenne red pepper sauce to taste, either hot or mild.
- Cover and let simmer in the slow cooker for 5 to 6 hours.
- Serve in hot dog rolls or over rice. Can be frozen for later use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, add more cayenne red pepper sauce or incorporate diced jalapeños. If you're short on time, pre-made meatloaf mix can substitute for the ground beef and pork. Additionally, feel free to swap out the green peppers for red or yellow ones for a sweeter taste. This recipe can also be adjusted by adding other vegetables like mushrooms or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Dynamites in hot dog rolls for a fun twist or over fluffy rice for a hearty meal. Pair with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. These flavorful meat creations also go well with a tangy coleslaw or crispy potato wedges for a satisfying feast. For a comforting option, try them alongside the School Day Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Dynamites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the meat and vegetable mixture in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the slow cooker or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dynamites contains roughly 2091 calories, with 99g protein, 263g carbohydrates, and 97g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (465% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (205% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1176mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
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 make Dynamites ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and shape them into hot dog shapes a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for a quick meal when needed.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes with some seasoning. Alternatively, a homemade tomato sauce made from fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs can also work well.
Can I use different meats in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option or even use a blend of ground meats like lamb or veal. Adjust the cooking time slightly if the meat is leaner.
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).