How To Repurpose Leftover Hot Dogs Into A Brand-New Dinner

Leftover hot dog ideas

There are numerous dishes that can be enhanced by incorporating some leftover hot dogs, whether it’s a straightforward potato casserole or a traditional pasta bake like cheesy baked ziti. One guaranteed way to create a delicious meal is to combine these favorite sausages with ingredients typically served alongside them in their classic form (i.e., a hot dog in a bun). Elevate your casserole by adding sautéed onions, a dash of mustard, some upgraded canned hot dog chili, or anything with a sweet, tomato-like flavor reminiscent of ketchup. Don’t forget to include plenty of shredded cheese to keep the dish wonderfully gooey and moist. You might also sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top towards the end of cooking. Even better, if you have stale hot dog buns, give them a quick spin in the food processor and use those instead. To further embrace the hot dog theme, consider topping the finished dish with a handful of finely chopped pickles or some sauerkraut.

Another approach is to change how you prepare the hot dog meat itself. Slicing or cubing is an obvious choice. However, if you have bratwurst, you can remove the casings, crumble the meat, and cook it in a bit of oil, similar to how you would with chorizo (this is easiest if the sausages are uncooked). There are really no strict rules here—just enjoy the delicious results of your culinary efforts!