Baked Hot Dogs

     Forget the grill this weekend, for your Memorial Day cook out why not try these Baked Hot Dogs in your dutch oven?  I was so intrigued by this recipe when I saw it, one of my favorite ways to eat a hot dog is with a soft, steamed roll.  By baking the hot dogs with all the toppings together, everything is wonderfully heated through and piping hot at the same time.  I thought maybe the rolls would burn in spots but they were perfectly baked, warm inside and a little crispy on the outside.
      I just squeezed 7 hot dogs in my 12 inch oven, you'll need a larger dutch oven for the full recipe.  They baked with 12 coals in a ring around the bottom and 24 spaced evenly on the lid for exactly 40 minutes.  Be sure to spread the buns with a little mayo, it prevents the rolls from becoming soggy. 
     You can certainly make these with veggie dogs or even cut them in half and serve them as an appetizer.  Scale the recipe back for your 8 or 10 inch oven but whatever you do, pack the forks because these are a little too cheesy and good to eat with your fingers. 
     I hope you have a safe and enjoyable holiday and don't forget to take a moment to honor and remember our brave and dedicated veterans who have gone before us.

Baked Hot Dogs
8 hot dogs
8 hot dog buns
1 14 1/ oz can chili with beans
1/2 cup onion, chopped
1-2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
Mayonnaise
Mustard
Sweet Relish

     Lightly oil or spray dutch oven.
     Spread the inside of each hot dog bun with mayonnaise, mustard and sweet relish.
     Fill with hot dogs and place side by side in prepared oven.
     Top each hot dog with chili, cheese and onion.
     Bake at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes or until heated through.
     Remove carefully from oven with large spoon or spatula.

Place hot dogs side by side in well oiled dutch oven

Bake for 40-45 minutes at 350 degrees

Holy cow these are good