Saucy Hot Dog Pick-Ups
Sweet and tangy hot dog pick-ups coated in a flavorful sauce, perfect for quick gatherings or casual snacks, appealing to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together water, catsup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, dry mustard, and paprika in a quart glass casserole.
- Cover and cook for about 3 minutes or until the sauce is bubbly.
- Stir the hot dogs into the sauce.
- Cover and cook for 2 minutes or until hot dogs are heated through.
- Serve warm.
- Use toothpicks to spear hot dogs before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter sauce, consider adding a bit more brown sugar or even a splash of honey. If you want a spicier kick, try incorporating a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper. You can easily substitute turkey or veggie hot dogs for a lighter or vegetarian option. To enhance the flavor, adding minced garlic can also elevate the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these saucy hot dog pick-ups as a fun appetizer at parties or game days. They pair wonderfully with a side of crunchy coleslaw or potato chips. For a complete meal, consider serving with baked beans or a fresh garden salad. These are sure to be a hit alongside classic American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover hot dog pick-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can warm them gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Saucy Hot Dog Pick-Ups contains roughly 90 calories, with 2g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 4g 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 different types of hot dogs?
Absolutely! You can use beef, turkey, chicken, or even plant-based hot dogs for a vegan option. Each type will add its own unique flavor profile to the dish, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of water) during the cooking process. Stir it in after the initial bubbling, and cook for an additional minute until it thickens to your liking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply heat the sauce and add in your cooked hot dogs. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
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).