I always serve my hot dogs with mac and cheese as a side, so I decided to just combine them into one dish instead. This hot dog mac and cheese is the best of both worlds – creamy mac and cheese with savory hot dogs in a comfort food mashup you can make right in your air fryer!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comfort Food Fusion
It’s the ultimate mash-up of two childhood favorites: creamy mac and cheese + juicy hot dogs, creating a nostalgic, cozy dish that hits all the right notes!
Budget-Friendly
Both hot dogs and pasta are affordable ingredients, making this a wallet-friendly meal that stretches across multiple servings without skimping on flavor.
Kid and Crowd Pleaser
It’s hard to find a more universally loved combo. Kids still love it, but this more grown up version will make adults feel nostalgic, especially when it’s dressed up with a few fun toppings or mix-ins!
Quick and Easy
Perfect for weeknights or lazy weekends, this dish comes together fast with minimal effort. It’s also a great way to use up leftover hot dogs!
Customizable
Spice it up with jalapeños, swirl in some BBQ sauce, or toss in veggies for extra nutrition. You can go classic or gourmet with just a few tweaks!
You can also customize the way you cook this recipe. I use a “one pan” air fryer method, but you can also grill, pan fry, or boil your hot dogs, and make your mac and cheese in the oven or on the stove.
While my version uses homemade adult-approved mac and cheese, you can also swap in Microwave Boxed Mac and Cheese (like Kraft mac) for an even faster (and kid favorite) option!
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Ingredients List
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup milk (any percentage except skim)
- 1 cup water
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (I use a mix of mild and sharp)
- 4 hot dogs, sliced into ¼” thick rounds
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- ½ tsp mustard powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 2 Tbsp bacon bits (optional)
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
- Instead of milk, you can use heavy cream, half and half, or evaporated milk
- The shredded cheddar cheese can be swapped for other varieties as you like. I often just use a mix of leftover cheese! You can also add 2-4 Tbsp of Velveeta or cream cheese for an extra-creamy option
- I use all beef hot dogs but you can choose your favorites. It also works well with smoked sausage and kielbasa
- All seasonings are adjustable to taste. You can also customize with other spices, such as paprika, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne for some heat, or even a little nutmeg
Equipment Note
You’ll need some type of oven-safe pan that fits in your air fryer for this recipe. This can be a cake pan, casserole dish, or anything similar.
I have a Dual Zone air fryer with two baskets, so I split mine into two small casserole dishes, but for a single basket unit, one larger baking pan is also fine!
Variations
- Chili Cheese. Add ¼ to ½ cup (depending on preference) of canned chili in with the hot dogs for a chili cheese variation
- Veggies. Add ¼ cup chopped drained spinach for a veggie-packed version. You can also add steamed broccoli florets, peas, diced or caramelized onions, or peppers to the mac if you like. Jalapenos are a nice option for extra spice!
- Crunchy Topping. Add some panko breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips to the top and toast for a few minutes to add an extra crunch!
- Serve as a Topping. Make the mac and cheese, and cook the hot dogs separately as you like (check out my Air Fryer Hot Dogs recipe for more info). Then, add the mac and cheese as a topping on the hot dogs (with or without buns)!
Step By Step Instructions
- Combine the macaroni, milk, water, 6 ounces of the cheese, and all the seasonings. Stir well, and pour the mixture into a greased baking dish that fits in your air fryer (make sure the noodles are covered with liquid)
- Place the filled dish into your air fryer’s basket or rack
- Cook on the air fry setting at 360°F for 20 minutes, pausing every 5 minutes to stir. The noodles should be al dente at this point – if they are not, stir again and add extra time in 5-minute intervals as needed for your specific air fryer
- Top the mac and cheese with the remaining cheese, hot dog slices, and the bacon bits (if using). Try to keep the hot dogs in an even layer so you get that perfect caramelization. Cook an additional 5 minutes, or until browned to your liking
- Rest for about 5 minutes, then stir and serve! Garnish with sliced green onions or fresh parsley, if desired
Pairing Suggestions
Side Dishes
- Simple green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness
- Roasted or air-fried broccoli – savory and slightly charred!
- Baked beans – Classic BBQ-style pairing. You can make Air Fryer Baked Beans too!
- Corn on the Cob, especially grilled or air fried with butter. My Air Fryer Frozen Corn on the Cob is quick and easy!
- Coleslaw – creamy or vinegar-based for refreshing crunch
Drink Pairings
- Root Beer or Cream Soda – fun, nostalgic non-alcoholic options!
- Crisp Lager or Wheat Beer – great with salty, cheesy bites
- Dry White Wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) – cuts through the richness
- Hard Cider – Sweet-tart notes complement the salt and cheese. Try my Caramel Apple Hard Cider!
- Spiked Lemonade or a Whiskey Sour – Zippy contrast to creamy comfort food. My Crown Blackberry Lemonade or Blackberry Whiskey Sour are perfect for summer!
Recipe FAQs
Are Hot Dogs In Mac And Cheese Good?
Yes! Hot dogs add a salty, savory bite that pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy macaroni. It’s a nostalgic, comforting combination loved by kids and adults alike.
Do You Cook Hot Dogs Before Adding To Mac And Cheese?
Yes, it’s best to cook the hot dogs before adding them to mac and cheese. That’s why I cook mine on top in the last 5 minutes before folding them in, to get that perfect caramelization.
You can also grill, broil, or pan fry your hot dogs separately and add them into the prepared mac and cheese after.
Is It Normal To Put Hot Dogs In Mac And Cheese?
Definitely! It’s a classic, budget-friendly dish that’s been popular in home kitchens and cafeterias for decades. It’s quick, easy, comforting, nostalgic, and satisfying all in one dish.
What Meat Goes Well With Mac And Cheese?
Besides hot dogs, other great options include bacon or pancetta, pulled pork (with a drizzle of BBQ sauce), grilled chicken, ground beef or sausage, and lobster or shrimp for an upscale twist!
Tips For the Best Hot Dog Mac and Cheese
- It is normal for this dish to splatter during cooking in your air fryer. I don’t recommend using foil as it will slow down the cooking process, but you can use it if you’re worried about the mess. Plan for about 10 minutes of extra cooking
- Remember that all air fryers can vary in terms of power level and cooking times. This recipe was created and tested in a Ninja Dual Zone air fryer. Other air fryers may require more or less cooking times, so don’t be afraid to use your judgment and adjust cooking times as needed
Storage and Reheating
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days
- Freezing: You can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or zippered freezer bags for up to 2 months. Note that the texture of the pasta may soften slightly when thawed
Reheating Tips
- Microwave: Add a splash of milk or a pat of butter to the mac and cheese to revive creaminess. Cover loosely and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through (I like to add a little extra fresh shredded cheese on top too)!
- Stovetop: Reheat in a small saucepan or skillet over low to medium heat, adding a little milk or cream and stirring often
- Oven: For larger portions, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes, or until heated through
- Air Fryer. Place in a heat-safe dish that fits in your air fryer, add a splash of milk or butter to keep it moist, and heat at 325°F for 5–8 minutes, stirring halfway. You can add an extra sprinkle of cheese or some breadcrumbs in the last few couple minutes too!
Final Thoughts
This hot dog mac and cheese is pure classic comfort food and nostalgia in a dish! Not only is it kid friendly, it’s also adult approved thanks to the “grown up” mac and cheese in this easy one pan recipe.
I make mine in the air fryer because it’s simple, and you get perfect browning on your hot dogs while also cooking your mac and cheese to creamy perfection. Plus, you don’t even need to turn on the oven, so you can enjoy it in the summertime too!
Katie’s tip
If your family loves hot dogs, check out all my delicious Air Fryer Hot Dog Recipes for all sorts of different flavors, toppings, and unique creations that are sure to please!
Air Fryer Hot Dog Mac and Cheese
Equipment
- Spoon (for stirring)
- Casserole dish (or similar oven safe dish(es) that fit in your air fryer)
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 cup milk (any percentage except skim)
- 1 cup water
- 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (divided; I use a mix of mild and sharp)
- 4 hot dogs (sliced into approximately ¼" thick rounds)
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp mustard powder
- 2 Tbsp cooked bacon pieces (optional)
Instructions
- Combine the macaroni, milk, water, 6 ounces of the cheese, and all the seasonings. Stir well, and pour the mixture into a greased baking dish that fits in your air fryer (make sure the noodles are covered with liquid). Place the filled dish into your air fryer’s basket or rack2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni, 1 cup milk, 1 cup water, 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp mustard powder
- Cook on the air fry setting at 360°F for 20 minutes, pausing every 5 minutes to stir. The noodles should be al dente at this point – if they are not, stir again and add extra time in 5-minute intervals as needed for your specific air fryer
- Top the mac and cheese with the remaining cheese, hot dog slices, and the bacon bits (if using). Try to keep the hot dogs in an even layer so you get that perfect caramelization. Cook an additional 5 minutes, or until browned to your liking4 hot dogs, 2 Tbsp cooked bacon pieces, 8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
- Rest for a few minutes, then stir and serve! Garnish with sliced green onions or fresh parsley, if desired
Notes
- Different air fryers can vary in terms of power level and cooking times. This recipe was created and tested in a Ninja Dual Zone air fryer. Other air fryers may require more or less cooking time, so adjust as needed for your specific setup
- Instead of milk, you can use heavy cream, half and half, or evaporated milk
- The shredded cheddar cheese can be swapped for other shredded cheese varieties as you like. I often just use a mix of whatever I have left over!
- I use all beef hot dogs but you can choose your favorites. It also works well with small sausages
- All seasonings are adjustable to taste. You can also customize with other spices, such as paprika, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne for some heat, or even a little nutmeg!
- Exact nutritional values will vary based on brand and flavor of ingredients, any sauces or sides added, and quantity consumed, so please consider this a guideline only
Nutrition
