The Popular BBQ Food That Unexpectedly Works As A Baked Potato Topping

A fluffy baked potato is filled with nutrients that can round out your meal as a complementary side dish or be transformed into a full entree in itself. With so many toppings to choose from that far exceed the popular trio of butter, chives, and sour cream, it's time to turn your thoughts to a protein-rich staple that's nearly synonymous with barbecues and ball games. Albeit an unexpected topping to level up your baked potato, the humble and hearty hot dog will do wonders to elevate your dish.

Whether chopped up, charred, and tossed in sauce for a simplified version of BBQ burnt ends or housed whole, swapping the spud for a steamed bun, hot dogs as a topping for your baked potato are a unique and useful ingredient. This is an excellent way to bulk up your potatoes with added protein and invites a host of other toppings to create a fully loaded potato. Consider the possibilities of combining a chili dog and baked potato for the ultimate filling meal.

You can use just about any style of hot dogs as a topping for your baked potato. The only limit is your imagination and dietary needs. For example, you can make a wholesome vegetarian or vegan version using a sweet potato topped with black beans and a chopped plant-based frank. With so many options to choose from, you'll never get bored with baked potatoes.

Hot dogs are typically fully cooked, so it's generally a matter of warming the frank to your liking before topping your baked potato with it. You can let the standard condiments for a hot dog or the usual baked potato toppings guide your choice of flavors. With the popularity of loaded baked potatoes that contain bacon bits, consider using a bacon-wrapped hot dog alongside a hearty helping of sour cream and chives for even more flavor and substance.

Whether you prepare your baked potatoes in the microwave, oven, air fryer, or otherwise, the end result is fluffy and filling. Once your potato is thoroughly cooked, carefully cut it open and mix up the inside before adding your choice of toppings. Cheese, butter, and cut-up hot dogs will bring the savory flavors, which you can accentuate with your choice of herbs, seasonings, and spices.

If you're a fan of poultry, try a turkey or chicken-based hot dog to top your baked potato. This would go especially well with the addition of grilled onions and sauteed mushrooms for rich flavors and additional protein. Chop up cooked beef or pork hot dogs and toss them in a splash of vinaigrette before plopping them on top of your baked potato for a punch of zest and tanginess. Choose from any of the popular grocery store hot dog brands to amp up your baked potato with big flavor at an accessible price.