How To Cook A Hot Dog - You're Doing It All Wrong

For the best hot dogs, don't skip the crosshatch

Once your grill is heated, position your preferred hot dogs at a 45-degree angle on the grill. Ksenia Prints explains that this technique will help you achieve those ideal grill marks. After cooking for two minutes, rotate the hot dogs to a 90-degree angle. This will create a pleasing crosshatch pattern. After another two minutes, flip the hot dogs to the other side, repeating the same two angles to get the crosshatch effect on that side as well. If you're using a charcoal grill, you may need to fan the coals at this point to restore them to medium-high heat.

Once both sides are cooked, use tongs to take the hot dogs off the grill. Place each one in a soft bun and add your favorite toppings—Prints recommends ketchup, mustard, and a touch of relish—then enjoy.

While some people may prefer boiling their beef hot dogs for the sake of convenience, this method can lead to splitting, making it less than ideal. "Forget boiling your hot dogs; it will only cause them to burst and overcook, resulting in something that's not very appetizing," Prints advises. Instead, opt for grilling, and if you're interested in a more German-style sausage, let Prints show you how to properly grill a bratwurst next. Stick with grilling, make some slits, and time your hot dogs just right, and you'll have delicious hot dogs every time.