Seattle Cream Cheese Dogs Recipe

Hot dog buns: Soft and fluffy buns that will hold the hot dogs and toppings.

Hot dogs: Choose your favorite type of hot dogs, whether beef, pork, or a vegetarian option.

Cream cheese: Softened to make it easy to spread inside the buns, adding a creamy texture.

Onion: Sliced and caramelized to add a sweet and savory topping.

Butter: Used to caramelize the onions, adding richness and flavor.

To achieve perfectly caramelized onions, make sure to cook them slowly over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. This process can take around 20-30 minutes, but the result is a sweet and deeply flavored topping that complements the cream cheese and hot dogs beautifully.

• hot dog buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns add a nutty flavor and are a healthier option with more fiber.

• hot dogs - Substitute with chicken sausages: Chicken sausages are a leaner alternative with less fat and can offer a different flavor profile.

• softened cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a lower-fat option that still provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor.

• sliced onion - Substitute with caramelized onions: Caramelized onions add a sweet and rich flavor that complements the other ingredients well.

• butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier fat option and adds a subtle, fruity flavor to the dish.

• Allow the hot dogs and caramelized onions to cool completely before storing. This helps to prevent condensation, which can make the buns soggy.
• Wrap each hot dog individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent them from sticking together.
• Place the wrapped hot dogs in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This will help to keep them fresh and prevent any unwanted odors from seeping in.
• Store the container or bag in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the hot dogs within 3-4 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer.
• If freezing, label the container or bag with the date to keep track of how long they have been stored. Hot dogs can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing quality.
• When ready to eat, thaw the hot dogs in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Reheat them in a microwave, oven, or on the grill until they are heated through.
• For the best texture, consider toasting the hot dog buns separately before adding the reheated hot dogs and caramelized onions.
• If you have leftover cream cheese, store it in its original container or transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator and use it within a week for the best quality.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Wrap each Seattle cream cheese dog in aluminum foil to keep the buns from drying out. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 15 minutes, or until the hot dogs are warmed through and the cream cheese is soft and melty.

• For a quicker method, use the microwave. Place the Seattle cream cheese dogs on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F. Place the Seattle cream cheese dogs in the basket, making sure they are not touching. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the hot dogs are hot and the buns are slightly crispy.

• For stovetop reheating, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or olive oil to the pan. Place the Seattle cream cheese dogs in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the hot dogs are warmed through and the buns are toasted.

• If you prefer a grill, preheat it to medium heat. Wrap the Seattle cream cheese dogs in aluminum foil and place them on the grill. Heat for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the hot dogs are hot and the buns are warm and slightly crispy.

• Grill: Used to cook the hot dogs until they are heated through and have grill marks.

• Skillet: Used to melt the butter and cook the onions until they are soft and caramelized.

• Spatula: Used to stir and handle the onions while they are cooking in the skillet.

• Tongs: Used to handle and turn the hot dogs on the grill.

• Knife: Used to slice the onion.

• Cutting board: Used as a surface to slice the onion.

• Butter knife: Used to spread the cream cheese inside each hot dog bun.

• Serving plate: Used to serve the assembled Seattle cream cheese dogs.

Pre-caramelize the onions: Cook the onions in advance and store them in the fridge. Reheat when needed.

Soften cream cheese quickly: Microwave the cream cheese for 10-15 seconds to soften it faster.

Use pre-sliced onions: Buy pre-sliced onions to save chopping time.

Grill multiple hot dogs: Grill all hot dogs at once to save time.

Preheat the grill: Ensure the grill is preheated to avoid waiting time.

Assemble efficiently: Lay out all ingredients before starting to assemble the hot dogs.