Simple & Tasty Hot Dogs for Your 4th of July Cookout
Hot dogs are a must at my 4th of July party. They’re easy to throw on the grill; everyone loves them, and you can dress them up a million ways!
I always set out a toppings bar so guests can build their own—kids get creative, and adults pile ‘em high.
Whether I’m hosting in the backyard or bringing a dish to someone else’s BBQ, this is one of my go-to 4th of July recipes.
Simple, fast, and super satisfying!
Recipe Facts
- 8 servings (1 hot dog per person)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need For This Recipe
- 8 hot dogs (beef, pork, turkey, or your choice)
- 8 classic hot dog buns
-Condiments:
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Mayonnaise (optional)
-Toppings (choose a selection based on preference):
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6-8 small, pickled gherkins
- ½ cup chopped onions (raw or grilled)
- ¾ cup diced tomatoes
- Fresh herbs (such as cilantro or chives)
RELATED: The Best 4th of July Food Ideas for BBQs, Picnics & Potlucks
How To Make This Recipe
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F).
- Prepare the Hot Dogs: If desired, make shallow diagonal cuts in the hot dogs to help them cook evenly and give them a nice char.
- Grill the Hot Dogs: Place the hot dogs on the grill. Grill them for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are heated through and have nice grill marks.
- Toast the Buns: In the last 1-2 minutes of grilling, place the hot dog buns on the grill to lightly toast them. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Assemble the Hot Dogs: Once the hot dogs are done, remove them from the grill and place each one inside a toasted bun.
- Add Toppings: Provide a variety of toppings at a serving station so guests can customize their hot dogs. Add sliced tomatoes, shredded onions, and cheese. Arrange everything neatly and enjoy! Add your favorite sauces like mustard or ketchup.
Tips for a Festive Touch
- Set up a “toppings bar” for your guests with small bowls of condiments and toppings.
- For a patriotic theme, use red (ketchup), white (mayonnaise or cheese), and blue (blue cheese or blue corn chips) toppings.
- Consider adding little flags (as I have in the images on this page) to add extra patriotic cheer!
Enjoy your 4th of July celebration with these delicious grilled hot dogs!
I hope you have a lovely time at your event!

July 4th Hot Dogs
Ingredients
- 8 hot dogs (beef, pork, turkey, or your choice)
- 8 classic hot dog buns
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Mayonnaise (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6-8 small, pickled gherkins
- ½ cup chopped onions (raw or grilled)
- ¾ cup diced tomatoes
- Fresh herbs (such as cilantro or chives)
Instructions
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F).
2. If desired, make shallow diagonal cuts in the hot dogs to help them cook evenly and give them a nice char.
3. Place the hot dogs on the grill. Grill them for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are heated through and have nice grill marks.
4. In the last 1-2 minutes of grilling, place the hot dog buns on the grill to lightly toast them. Watch closely to prevent burning.
5. Once the hot dogs are done, remove them from the grill and place each one inside a toasted bun.
6. Provide a variety of toppings at a serving station so guests can customize their hot dogs. Add sliced tomatoes, shredded onions, and cheese. Arrange everything neatly and enjoy! Add your favorite sauces like mustard or ketchup.