Your guide to making hot dogs at home

What makes a good homemade hot dog?

It's the little details that turn a simple summer favourite into something truly memorable. From the quality of the sausage to the finishing flourish of toppings, every element matters.

• The sausage: Start with the star. A great hot dog needs a well-seasoned, succulent sausage with real depth of flavour. If you're going plant-based, these days vegan sausages are crafted for great taste and satisfying texture.

• The method: Grill for a smoky char, or pan-fry for a golden finish. Either way, cook gently and don’t rush – good flavour takes time.

• The buns: Soft yet sturdy is the key. Lightly toasted brioche or classic sub rolls should hold everything together without overpowering.

• The condiments: Keep it simple or elevate it. Ketchup and mustard are classics, while hot sauces, barbecue sauce or aioli add extra depth.

• The toppings: Think balance: crunch, freshness and richness. Fried onions, gherkins or cheese all work beautifully. For a more indulgent option, try a chilli dog – topped with rich chilli con carne.

• The sides: Finish with something shareable – crisp fries, fresh salads or crunchy slaw.

Whatever you fancy, we've got next-level hot dog sausages in the Foodhall.

• Our new Long Dogs, measuring an impressive 23cm, come in four globally inspired flavours — smoky pork, jalapeño and cheese, herby chicken and Reuben-style beef and pork.

• Want to keep it classic? Choose our much-loved Posh Dogs – made from outdoor-bred British pork and finished with a subtle American-style smoky seasoning.

• For a plant-based option, choose our succulent Plant Kitchen Smoky Veggie Sausages, made with carrot, red pepper, pea protein and spices.

Hot dog recipes

Ready to get cooking? Discover our collection of hot dog recipes.

• Bring a taste of the Med to your next garden gathering with a Greek-inspired hot dog, packed with all the flavours of lamb gyros – juicy lamb chipolatas, cooling tzatziki and a fresh tomato and onion salad, served with French fries for the full experience.

• Or take inspiration from the classic Reuben sandwich with a loaded hot dog focaccia – featuring our Reuben Long Dogs, topped with smoked cheddar, Fiery Pickles, smoky mayo, mustard and a sprinkle of Top That seasoning.

• Go bold with fiery Korean-inspired hot dogs, topped with crunchy Korean-style slaw.

• Or give classic French onion soup a summery makeover with these French onion hot dogs, with caramelised onions and Gruyère.

And on the side?

A flavour-packed hot dog deserves flavour-packed sides. Keep things simple by picking up Waffle Fries, Nacho Cheese and Buffalo Slaw and our Isle of Wight Baby Leaf Salad. Or get creative in the kitchen with one of our recipe ideas, like our everything but the bagel potato salad, beer mac and cheese and Cajun spiced loaded fries.