I’m not one to air fry everything in the kitchen, but the technology is really cool and if you are looking make a meal in a limited amount of time, it’s a great kitchen tool. I was shocked at how my air fryer hot dogs turned out and they have since become my #1 way to make hot dogs that isn’t on the grill. My kids liked them even more than grilled hot dogs because there is no char element to them, which some kids don’t love. The finished hot dogs end up a little crispy on the exterior with a nice snap to them and stay very juicy on the inside. Most importantly, they are ready in no time! I’m talking 5 minutes maximum.
My Favorite Hot Dogs for Home Cooks
Before we dive into the air fryer method for hot dogs, I think it’s important to spend some time on the different brands of hot dogs on the market. While you can absolutely air fry any hot dog you have, I prefer to purchase all-beef hot dogs in a natural casing which will crisp up slightly in the air fryer. When it comes to brands, I tend to purchase either Hebrew National or Nathan’s Famous.
How to Air Fry Hot Dogs
It doesn’t get much easier than air frying hot dogs. I do recommend spraying the basket with some nonstick spray just to make sure there is no sticking (especially if you are toasting the buns as detailed below). There is no need to flip the hot dogs or anything as they air fry—they will cook evenly. I recommend cooking them at 350˚F for about 5 minutes and they will be steaming hot and ready to serve!
Toasting Buns in the Air Fryer
This is a bonus step that I find completely fun and delicious. I love a toasted bun with my hot dogs and the air fryer makes this an easy add-on step. Once you have air-fried your hot dogs, add the hot dogs to the buns and place the entire thing back in the air fryer. You might only be able to fit 2 at a time, but the bread toasts quickly. Turn on your air fryer for just 90 seconds and it will perfectly toast the bun around the hot dog!
Serving Ideas for Air Fryer Hot Dogs
Topping options are many! You can check out my cheesy baked hot dog ideas for some fun suggestions that would work just swell on these hot dogs. If you are looking for a side dish that isn’t just a bag of chips, I love the idea of serving these hot dogs with some homemade creamed corn or even this cheesy cauliflower dish!
Try These Hot Dog Recipes!
Chicago Hot Dogs Hot Dogs with Spicy Kimchi Slaw Chili Dog Hot Dogs With Pineapple Bacon Relish New Jersey Italian Hot Dogs
Mustard Ketchup Pickles
Air fry at 350˚F for 5 minutes. When the hot dogs are done, they should be glistening hot and slightly browned in spots. Place 2 assembled hot dogs in the air fryer and cook for 90 seconds to toast the bun. The finished toasted bun will have a light toast on it and be slightly crispy on the edges. If you are adding cheese to your hot dogs—add a slice of cheese in the middle each bun and top with hot dog. Air fry for 90 seconds and cheese will be melted, and the buns toasted. Repeat with remaining hot dogs. Did you love the recipe? Leave us stars below!
