Tex-Mex Hot Dogs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tex-Mex Hot Dogs take the classic American favorite and infuse it with bold Southwestern flavors. Topped with zesty pico de gallo, creamy avocado, spicy jalapeños, and a drizzle of chipotle mayo, these hot dogs are a fun, flavorful twist perfect for summer cookouts, casual dinners, or game day spreads. They offer a satisfying combination of savory, spicy, and fresh in every bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

hot dog bunsbeef or turkey hot dogsripe avocadospico de galloshredded cheddar cheesepickled jalapeñosfresh cilantrolimechipotle mayonnaisebutter or oil for toasting buns

directions

Heat your grill or skillet to medium-high and cook the hot dogs until heated through and slightly charred, about 5-7 minutes.

Lightly butter the buns and toast them on the grill or skillet until golden brown.

Slice the avocado and mash lightly with a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lime juice.

Place each hot dog in a toasted bun and top with mashed avocado.

Add a spoonful of pico de gallo and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.

Top with pickled jalapeños and a drizzle of chipotle mayo.

Finish with fresh chopped cilantro and an extra lime wedge for squeezing, if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 hot dogs.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesAssembly time: 5 minutesTotal time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use guacamole instead of sliced avocado for a creamier topping.

Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese for extra heat.

Add crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy texture.

Use vegetarian hot dogs or sausage alternatives to make it plant-based.

Include sautéed onions or grilled corn for added depth of flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftover ingredients separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.Reheat hot dogs and buns before reassembling—hot dogs can be reheated in a skillet or microwave.To preserve texture, avoid assembling in advance.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pico de gallo?

Yes, store-bought works fine, though fresh homemade pico gives the best flavor.

Is chipotle mayo spicy?

It has a mild to medium heat depending on the brand. Adjust quantity to your taste.

What kind of hot dogs work best?

Beef hot dogs provide the most flavor, but turkey or veggie dogs work well too.

Can I make these in the oven?

Yes, bake the hot dogs at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes and toast the buns under the broiler.

Do I need a grill?

No, a skillet or grill pan works just as well for cooking the hot dogs.

How can I make it less spicy?

Skip the jalapeños and use plain mayo instead of chipotle.

Can I serve these at a party?

Absolutely, these are a crowd-pleaser and can be customized by guests at a toppings bar.

Are they kid-friendly?

Yes, just tone down the spice or let kids choose their own toppings.

Can I make the toppings ahead?

Yes, prep pico de gallo, avocado, and chipotle mayo up to a day ahead.

What type of buns should I use?

Soft, bakery-style hot dog buns work best to hold all the toppings.

Conclusion

Tex-Mex Hot Dogs are a delicious fusion of Mexican and American flavors, bringing together spicy, creamy, and fresh ingredients in a satisfying handheld meal. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for when you want something exciting beyond the basic hot dog. Give them a try and add some Tex-Mex flair to your next meal.

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