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If you crave both the comfort of hot dogs and the cheesy goodness of pizza, these Air Fryer Pizza Dogs will be a family winner. They are quick to make with simple ingredients and deliver that gooey crispy combo everyone loves. Perfect for lunch or a fuss-free dinner, this mashup is great when time is short but you want something fun.
The first rainy day I made these we played board games with the kids while they cooked and everyone was just waiting for the timer to ding. Now my husband asks for them whenever we’re low on dinner inspiration.
Ingredients
- Wieners: These are classic hot dogs and make the base of the recipe I pick all beef franks for the best juiciness
- Pepperoni slices: Adds a rich savory kick To keep them from being greasy look for ones that crisp up easily in the air fryer
- Hot dog buns: Grab bakery fresh if you can Soft inside is perfect for absorbing all the sauce and cheese
- Pizza sauce: Brings iconic pizzeria flavor Use a thicker sauce so the buns don’t get soggy
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and adds that signature stretch Look for whole milk mozzarella for extra creaminess
- Bacon: Cooked and chopped for smoky crunch Use center cut bacon and cook until just crisp before chopping
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer:
- Set your air fryer to three hundred eighty degrees F This ensures it is hot enough for even crisping
- Cook the Wieners:
- Place the wieners in the preheated air fryer basket Let them cook for five minutes so they are heated through and the outside tightens up for a nice bite
- Prep the Buns:
- While the wieners are cooking gently open each hot dog bun Spread a generous layer of pizza sauce on the inside for full flavor coverage
- Layer the Pepperoni:
- Arrange about two thirds of your pepperoni slices in a row down the center of each bun so every bite gets a little spicy meatiness
- Assemble the Pizza Dog:
- When the wieners are ready place one on top of the pepperoni in each prepared bun
- Add Cheese and Bacon:
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella all over the wiener and bun then scatter chopped cooked bacon on top This is what creates that pizza texture
- Top with More Pepperoni:
- Place any remaining pepperoni slices over the cheese for extra flavor and a little crispiness as they cook
- Air Fry the Pizza Dogs:
- Carefully set the loaded hot dogs back in the air fryer basket Cook for four more minutes at three hundred eighty degrees F until the cheese is melted and everything is sizzling
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Carefully remove the pizza dogs Serve immediately for melty cheese perfection
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There is nothing like the crispy pepperoni after just a few minutes in the air fryer I sometimes sneak a few extra slices just for myself These pizza dogs became an instant birthday party favorite in our house last year and now my daughter insists on them for every big game day
Storage Tips
Store any leftover pizza dogs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days Reheat in the air fryer for just a couple minutes until the cheese bubbles again Do not microwave as the bread can get tough
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap in turkey hot dogs for a lighter version or chicken sausage for a flavor twist Provolone can be used instead of mozzarella and if you want to skip pork use turkey pepperoni and beef bacon
Serving Suggestions
Pair your pizza dogs with a green salad or raw veggie sticks for a quick balanced meal They are also amazing with simple garlic fries or oven roasted sweet potatoes
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Cultural and Historical Context
This fun recipe is inspired by the street food fusion trend that mixes family favorites For years my family has riffed on classic American hot dogs by adding toppings from other cultures Pizza and hot dogs are two icons and together they always bring smiles
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to swap mozzarella for cheddar, provolone, or any cheese that melts well and suits your taste.
- → Do I need to pre-cook the bacon?
Yes, it's best to cook and chop the bacon beforehand so it crisps up nicely on the pizza dogs.
- → Will other sausages work besides wieners?
Absolutely! You can substitute your favorite cooked sausages, such as bratwurst or Italian sausages.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
You can assemble the hot dogs ahead, then air fry them right before serving for the freshest texture.
- → How can I prevent the buns from getting too crispy?
To keep buns softer, you can tent them with a bit of foil for part of the air frying time.
- → Are there vegetarian options?
Try plant-based hot dogs and bacon, along with your favorite veggie pizza toppings.