Let’s talk about hot dogs – but not just any regular hot dogs. I’ve always enjoyed finding new ways to dress up classic foods, and these pulled pork hot dogs have become a regular hit at our backyard gatherings. There’s something so satisfying about combining two crowd favorites into one easy meal.
I started making these when I was looking for a simple way to use up leftover pulled pork from our weekend barbecues. Now, I actually plan to make extra pulled pork just so I can serve these the next day. The best part? They’re super easy to put together, and everyone gets to add their favorite toppings.
Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just want to make dinner a little more interesting, these pulled pork hot dogs are a great choice. My kids call them “barbecue dogs,” and honestly, that name fits perfectly. They’re just fun to eat!
Why You’ll Love These Pulled Pork Hot Dogs
- Quick assembly – These loaded hot dogs come together in just 30-45 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
- No fancy ingredients – Everything you need can be found at your regular grocery store, and you might already have most items in your kitchen.
- Perfect for crowds – These hot dogs are easy to make in large batches and let people customize their own toppings – great for summer parties, game days, or backyard BBQs.
- Two classics in one – By combining hot dogs with pulled pork and coleslaw, you’re getting the best of both worlds – classic ballpark food meets BBQ joint favorite.
What Kind of Hot Dogs Should I Use?
For this loaded pulled pork hot dog recipe, you’ll want to start with good quality all-beef hot dogs, though pork or beef-pork blends will work too. Regular-sized hot dogs (about 6 inches) fit perfectly in standard buns, but you might want to avoid jumbo dogs since they could overwhelm the pulled pork topping. If you’re shopping at the grocery store, look for hot dogs with a natural casing – they’ll give you that satisfying snap when you bite into them. While you can use any brand you like, try to pick ones that don’t have too many fillers or artificial ingredients listed on the package, since you want the meat flavor to shine through with your BBQ pork topping.
Options for Substitutions
This fun twist on hot dogs can be customized in several ways to match your preferences:
- Hot dogs: You can swap regular hot dogs with turkey dogs, chicken sausages, or even plant-based hot dogs if you’re looking for healthier options. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly.
- BBQ pulled pork: While pulled pork is the star here, you could use pulled chicken or even jackfruit for a vegetarian version. Just make sure it’s mixed with BBQ sauce to keep that classic flavor.
- Hot dog buns: Regular hot dog buns work great, but you can try brioche buns for extra richness, or whole wheat buns for added nutrition. Even submarine rolls will do in a pinch!
- Coleslaw mix: If you can’t find pre-packaged coleslaw mix, simply shred equal parts cabbage and carrots. You can also use broccoli slaw for a different crunch.
- Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt makes a tangy, protein-rich substitute for mayo. You could also use light mayo or even a vegan mayo alternative.
- White vinegar: Apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar can replace white vinegar in the coleslaw – each will add its own subtle flavor twist.
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking
The biggest mistake when making pulled pork hot dogs is serving them on cold or untoasted buns, which can lead to a soggy, disappointing meal – take a minute to lightly toast your buns on the grill or in a pan until they’re just golden and warm.
When heating your pulled pork, avoid cranking up the heat too high as this can dry it out; instead, warm it slowly over medium-low heat while stirring occasionally, and add a splash of BBQ sauce if needed to maintain moisture.
Making your coleslaw too far in advance can result in a watery mess, so aim to prepare it no more than 2 hours before serving, and be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning right before assembly – the perfect balance of creamy, tangy coleslaw adds the crucial crunch these loaded hot dogs need.
For the best bite, let your hot dogs develop some char marks on the grill or in the pan, as this adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the tender pulled pork.
What to Serve With Pulled Pork Hot Dogs?
These loaded hot dogs are basically a meal on their own, but they’re even better with some classic cookout sides! French fries or potato chips are my go-to choices – they add that perfect salty crunch that complements the tender pulled pork and soft buns. Since these dogs are on the heavier side, I like to balance things out with some lighter options like corn on the cob or a simple cucumber and tomato salad. For a true BBQ joint experience, try serving them with some baked beans or mac and cheese on the side – just don’t forget to grab extra napkins, because these dogs can get deliciously messy!
Storage Instructions
Keep Components Separate: For the best results, store each component of your pulled pork hot dogs separately. Keep the cooked hot dogs in an airtight container, the pulled pork in its own container, and the prepared coleslaw in another. This way, everything stays fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days, and you can assemble your hot dogs whenever you’re ready to eat.
Make Ahead: The coleslaw can be made a day ahead – it actually tastes better after the flavors have time to mingle! The pulled pork can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge. Just warm it up when you’re ready to build your hot dogs.
Warm Up: When you’re ready to eat, warm the hot dogs and pulled pork separately. The hot dogs can be heated on the grill or in a pan, while the pulled pork can be warmed in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add the cold coleslaw right before serving for that perfect temperature contrast!
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20-30 minutes |
| Total Time | 30-45 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 2000-2200
- Protein: 70-80 g
- Fat: 130-150 g
- Carbohydrates: 150-170 g
Ingredients
- 1 pack of hot dogs
- 2 cups bbq pulled pork
- 1 pack of hot dog buns
- 1 package coleslaw mix (16 oz)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper for seasoning
Step 1: Prepare the Pulled Pork
Start by cooking the pulled pork according to the package directions.
This may involve either heating it on the stovetop, in the microwave, or in the oven.
Ensure the pork is thoroughly heated and kept warm until ready to serve.
Step 2: Grill the Hot Dogs
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Place the hot dogs on the grill and cook them until they are nicely browned and heated through, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Once done, remove them from the grill and keep warm.
Step 3: Prepare the Coleslaw
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
In a large bowl, add your coleslaw mix and toss it with the prepared mayo mixture until the cabbage is well coated.
Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as necessary for desired flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Hot Dogs
Take a hot dog bun and place a grilled hot dog inside it.
Top the hot dog with a generous amount of pulled pork, then finish with a serving of coleslaw on top.
Repeat the process for the remaining hot dogs and serve immediately for best taste.