Seattle Cream Cheese Dogs Recipe

Hot dog buns: Soft, fluffy buns that will hold the hot dog 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.

Onion: Sliced thinly and caramelized to add a sweet, 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 prevent burning and allow the natural sugars in the onions to develop a deep, rich flavor. Adding a pinch of salt can help draw out moisture and enhance the sweetness.

• hot dog buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns provide a healthier alternative with more fiber and nutrients.

• hot dogs - Substitute with chicken sausages: Chicken sausages are a leaner option with less fat and calories.

• softened cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt offers a tangy flavor and is lower in fat while being high in protein.

• sliced onion - Substitute with caramelized shallots: Caramelized shallots 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 to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the buns soggy.
• Wrap each Seattle Cream Cheese Dog individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This helps maintain their shape and prevents the cream cheese from sticking to other items.
• Place the wrapped hot dogs in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. This adds an extra layer of protection against freezer burn and keeps them fresh.
• Label the container or bag with the date. This ensures you know how long they've been stored and helps you use them within a reasonable timeframe.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep them longer, place them in the freezer where they can last for up to 2 months.
• When ready to reheat, unwrap the hot dogs and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the hot dogs on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• If the cream cheese has hardened, you can add a fresh layer after reheating to restore the creamy texture.
• For the best taste, consider reheating the hot dogs on a grill or skillet to regain some of the original grilled flavor and texture.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Wrap each Seattle cream cheese dog in aluminum foil to keep the hot dog buns from drying out. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the hot dogs are warmed through and the cream cheese is melty.

• If you're in a hurry, use the microwave. Place the Seattle cream cheese dog on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Microwave on high for 30-45 seconds, checking to ensure the hot dog is heated through.

• For a crispy bun, use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F. Place the Seattle cream cheese dog directly on the rack or on a small baking sheet. Heat for 10-12 minutes, keeping an eye on the hot dog buns to prevent them from becoming too crispy.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F. Place the Seattle cream cheese dogs in the basket and heat for 5-7 minutes. This method will give you a nice, crispy exterior while keeping the cream cheese and caramelized onions warm and delicious.

• 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 about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even warming.

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

• Skillet: Used to melt the butter and caramelize the sliced onions.

• Spatula: Handy for stirring the onions in the skillet to ensure even caramelization.

• Tongs: Useful for turning the hot dogs on the grill to achieve even cooking.

• Butter knife: Ideal for spreading the softened cream cheese inside each hot dog bun.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing the onion.

• Chef's knife: Essential for slicing the onion before caramelizing.

• Measuring cup: Ensures you use the correct amount of cream cheese.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the butter accurately.

• Serving platter: Perfect for arranging the finished Seattle cream cheese dogs before serving.

Pre-caramelize the onions: Cook and store the caramelized onions in the fridge up to three days in advance.

Soften cream cheese quickly: Leave the cream cheese at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwave it for 10-15 seconds.

Preheat the grill: Turn on the grill while you prepare other ingredients to save time.

Use pre-sliced onions: Buy pre-sliced onions to skip the slicing step.

Assemble ahead: Spread cream cheese in the buns and store them in the fridge until ready to use.