Corn Dog Grilled Cheese

This Corn Dog Grilled Cheese is the ultimate comfort food mashup for anyone who loves gooey cheese and crispy, fair-style corn dogs. Combining classic grilled cheese and hot dogs before wrapping it all in a golden cornmeal crust, this sandwich makes even weeknights feel fun. The first time I fried these up, my kitchen smelled like a carnival and everyone loved it.

I first made these for a family movie night and now my husband requests them whenever he is craving something over the top and nostalgic.

Ingredients

• Bread: You want thick sandwich bread that holds its shape Choose bakery-fresh slices for best results

• Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar slices melt beautifully and pack a bold flavor Look for a block and slice it yourself for more freshness

• Mozzarella cheese: This cheese gets extra melty and stretches for those classic cheese pulls Try whole milk mozzarella for richness

• Hot dogs: Choose all beef or your favorite high quality franks For the best flavor avoid hot dogs with lots of fillers

• Butter: Softened butter adds flavor and creates the crispy grilled crust Use real butter for that classic diner taste

• Cornmeal: Good quality cornmeal gives the batter its authentic corn dog taste Try medium grind for just the right crunch

• Flour: All purpose flour makes the batter light and stick perfectly to the sandwich Sift it to avoid lumps

• Sugar: A little sugar balances the cornmeal and makes the crust reminiscent of fair corn dogs

• Baking powder: This is essential for creating a puffy, crisp shell Make sure yours is fresh for the best rise

• Salt and black pepper: Add just enough seasoning to enhance all the other flavors

• Egg: Helps bind the batter together and creates that smooth golden coating

• Milk: Whole milk adds richness and helps the batter blend smoothly

Step-by-Step Instructions

Assemble the Grilled Cheese:

Layer two slices of bread buttered on the outside with cheddar mozzarella and sliced hot dogs Stack it in the order for best melting starting with cheddar then mozzarella then hot dogs then more mozzarella then cheddar Top with the second bread slice buttered side out

Grill the Sandwich:

Cook the assembled sandwich in a pan over medium heat for about three minutes per side Press down lightly with a spatula Flip gently when golden brown to keep everything together Make sure the cheese is fully melted inside

Mix the Corn Dog Batter:

Whisk together cornmeal flour sugar baking powder salt and black pepper in a large bowl In a separate bowl beat the egg with the milk and pour into the dry mixture Stir until you have a thick smooth batter

Coat the Sandwich:

Set your grilled cheese in a wide shallow dish and pour the batter over making sure to lift and turn it so every edge is covered Let excess batter drip off so the final crust is not too thick

Deep Fry the Sandwich:

Heat oil to exactly 375 Fahrenheit for the crispiest finish Carefully lower the battered sandwich into the hot oil Fry for about three minutes turning once if needed until the crust is deep golden and puffed

Drain and Serve:

Remove sandwich from oil and place on paper towels to drain Cut in half and serve hot with ketchup mustard or your favorite dip

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You Must Know

• High in protein thanks to cheese and hot dogs
• Freezes well before frying for make ahead convenience
• A crowd pleaser with a nostalgic twist

I always look forward to using a sharp cheddar that melts and bubbles perfectly inside the crispy shell It reminds me of birthday parties at home where gooey cheese sandwiches were always the biggest hit

Storage Tips

You can prep the grilled cheese component ahead and keep it in the fridge wrapped in plastic for up to 24 hours before dunking in batter and frying Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees until crisp to maintain that perfect crunch Never microwave or the coating will go soggy

Ingredient Substitutions

Try switching cheddar for pepper jack if you want a hint of spice Turkey or veggie hot dogs work just as well in place of beef For a gluten free version use gluten free flour in the batter but still check labels on your cornmeal and hot dogs

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Serving Suggestions

Serve these cut into strips for party snacks or with a side of chili for a hearty dinner I also love putting a little honey in the dipping sauce for a sweet and savory touch

Cultural History

This sandwich brings together two American classics the grilled cheese and the corn dog The grilled cheese evolved from simple bread and cheese sandwiches in the early 1900s while corn dogs have roots at American fairs and drive ins The combo is pure retro fun and perfect for potlucks or game days

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep the cheese from leaking out when frying?

Ensure your sandwich is well sealed by pressing the edges firmly before dipping in the batter. Chill the sandwich before frying for best results.

→ Can I use different cheeses for the filling?

Absolutely! Try pepper jack, Swiss, or your favorite melty cheese for a different flavor profile.

→ What oil is best for frying?

Use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil, heated to 375°F, to achieve a crisp and golden crust.

→ Is it possible to bake instead of deep fry?

Baking is an option, though the crust will be less crisp compared to deep frying. Use a high oven temperature for best results.

→ What are some serving ideas for this dish?

Serve with ketchup, mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce. A side of pickles or slaw complements the richness well.