What happens when you mash up a grilled cheese sandwich with a savory, juicy hot dog? You get these amazing grilled cheese hot dogs! I make mine in the air fryer for the perfect method, delivering melty cheese and a brown exterior – and easy enough for a weeknight!
What Are Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs?
Grilled cheese hot dogs are a fun mashup of two classic comfort foods: a melty grilled cheese sandwich and the savory hot dog! After all, the average American eats at least 36 grilled cheeses a year, so why not change it up once in a while?
The hot dog is wrapped or nestled inside slices of bread or a hot dog bun layered with melted cheese, then air fried, pan fried, or cooked on a griddle until golden and crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside.
This delicious variation on the classic is perfect for cookouts, kid-friendly dinners, or anytime you want something nostalgic but over-the-top. You can keep it simple with American cheese and white bread or buns, or upgrade with sourdough, cheddar, jalapeños, or even bacon!
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Ingredients List
- 4 hot dogs
- 4 hot dog buns (or slices of bread)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 2 Tbsp butter, softened
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- Any hot dogs you like are fine – I use Hebrew National all beef dogs, but you can use your favorite!
- I use top slit hot dog buns – New England style are also great for buttering the sides. You can also wrap a slice of bread around the dog and secure it with toothpicks!
- Instead of cheddar cheese you can use American, Monterey Jack, or a similar cheese of choice. I like sliced, but shredded works too
- The butter can be swapped for mayo, if preferred
- Other toppings are entirely up to you! I like bacon bits and jalapeno slices myself. Ketchup is a common choice for the kids – use whatever you like!
Step By Step Instructions
- Spread the butter on both external sides of the hot dog buns
- Add a slice of cheese on the inside. I break it in quarters horizontally and place two strips along each internal side on both sides
- Place a hot dog in the center of the bun, so it holds the cheese in place (you can secure the top with toothpicks if needed, but I don’t find it necessary)
- Add the hot dogs to your air fryer’s basket or rack in a single layer with air space in between each one
- Cook on the air fry setting at 375°F for 6-10 minutes, until sides are browned and cheese is melted
- Add extra hot dog toppings as desired, and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy!
Cooking Direction Notes
I’ve tested cooking grilled cheese hot dogs in the air fryer both upright and on their sides. Cooking them on their sides requires flipping, and you’ll get more leaked cheese, but the sides do come out browner overall for the end result.
Cooking them upright, you don’t need to flip or really tend to them. The sides will be more lightly browned, but they’re still tasty, so you can just do whatever is easier for you, or your preference.
Pairing Suggestions
Sides
- Tomato soup – a nod to classic grilled cheese pairings. Did you know you can make Air Fryer Roasted Tomato Soup?
- French fries or tater tots – crispy, salty, and crowd-pleasing. Try Air Fryer Sonic Tater Tots for a quick option!
- Coleslaw – adds a cool, tangy crunch
- Mac and cheese – for the ultimate indulgent meal
- Pickles or pickle spears – bright and briny to balance the richness
- Potato chips – classic, easy, and crunchy!
Drinks
- Root beer or cream soda – nostalgic flavors that play well with the hot dog theme. For a party, try Root Beer Float Shots!
- Lemonade or iced tea – refreshing and light
- Beer – a crisp lager or pilsner pairs well with the salt and cheese
- Spiked cherry cola or hard seltzer – fun and fizzy options for adults!
Desserts
- Brownies or cookies – easy to serve, crowd-pleasing favorites
- Mini milkshakes or floats – tie into the diner feel of the meal
- S’mores or rice krispie treats – nostalgic, handheld, and simple (or try the best of both worlds with Rice Krispie Treat S’mores!
Condiments & Toppings
- Ketchup, mustard, and hot sauce – for dipping or drizzling
- Caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms – elevate your grilled cheese dog. Try some easy Air Fryer Caramelized Onions!
- Jalapeño slices or banana peppers – for a spicy kick!
Recipe FAQs
What Cheese Goes With Hot Dogs?
Classic American cheese is a go-to for its smooth melt and mild flavor, but there are plenty of other great options. Try sharp cheddar for more bite, mozzarella for a stretchy melt, or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
You can even mix cheeses for extra flavor—like combining mozzarella and provolone or cheddar and Monterey Jack.
Can I Make Grilled Cheese With Hot Dog Buns?
Yes! Hot dog buns make a fun and easy vessel for grilled cheese. Simply split the bun (without tearing it completely), add your cheese and hot dog inside, and grill the outside like you would a regular grilled cheese sandwich. The result is a crispy, gooey twist on two classic comfort foods!
How To Melt Cheese On A Hot Dog Bun?
To melt cheese on a hot dog bun, assemble the bun with cheese and your hot dog, then air fry or grill it in a pan over medium heat with a bit of butter.
Tips For the Best Grilled Cheese Hot Dog
- For a deeper brown and crispier overall sandwich, increase the temperature to 390°F-400°F
- My recipe was made using a Ninja air fryer. Other brands and models can vary, so adjust cooking times as needed for your specific unit (and for your browning preferences)
Storage and Reheating
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftover grilled cheese hot dogs in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap. They’ll keep for up to 3 days in the fridge
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each hot dog individually in foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Note that texture may change slightly upon reheating, especially the bread
Reheating Instructions
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes until the bun is crisp and the cheese is melty
- Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) wrapped loosely in foil for 10–12 minutes
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, flipping occasionally until heated through and cheese has re-melted
- Microwave (not ideal): Wrap in a paper towel and heat in 20–30 second bursts. This works in a pinch but results in a soggy bun
More Air Fryer Hot Dog Recipes
Final Thoughts
These grilled cheese hot dogs are a pure comfort food mashup! Crispy, golden brown grilled cheese gives way to a bite of a savory, juicy hot dog – all cooked to perfection in your air fryer.
It’s such a simple recipe, yet so delicious. It’s easy enough for a weeknight, and approved by kids and adults alike!
Katie’s tip
If you love this fun twist, make sure to check out all my unique Air Fryer Hot Dog Recipes to find more inspiration!
Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Hot Dogs
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 hot dogs (any kind)
- 4 hot dog buns (or slices of bread)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 2 Tbsp butter (softened)
Instructions
- Spread the butter on both external sides of the hot dog buns2 Tbsp butter, 4 hot dog buns
- Add a slice of cheese on the inside. I break it in quarters horizontally and place two strips along each internal side on both sides4 slices cheddar cheese
- Place a hot dog in the center of the bun, so it holds the cheese in place (you can secure the top with toothpicks if needed, but I don’t find it necessary unless you're using a bread slice)4 hot dogs
- Add the hot dogs to your air fryer’s basket or rack in a single layer with air space in between each one
- Cook on the air fry setting at 375°F for 6-10 minutes, until sides are browned to your liking and cheese is melted
- Add extra hot dog toppings as desired, and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy!
Notes
- I use top slit hot dog buns – New England style are also great for buttering the sides. You can also wrap a slice of bread around the dog and secure it with toothpicks!
- Instead of cheddar cheese you can use American, Monterey Jack, or a similar cheese of choice. I like sliced, but shredded works too
- The butter can be swapped for mayo, if preferred
- You can cook the hot dog upright or on its side. If on the side, flip halfway through for even browning. Upright doesn’t need flipping (but won’t get as brown on the sides)
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, any toppings, condiments, or sides added, and quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
Nutrition
