Smoked Hot Dogs and Sauerkraut: The Ultimate Pellet Grill Recipe for Flavorful Summer Feasts
Discover how to craft irresistible Smoked Hot Dogs and Kraut, perfectly topped with tangy Frank’s Kraut and aromatic caraway seeds. This sensational, easy-to-make recipe requires only a handful of ingredients and promises a burst of smoky flavor that will elevate your backyard grilling. Read on for expert tips and tricks to achieve the absolute best smoked sauerkraut and hot dogs on your pellet grill, transforming a classic comfort food into a gourmet experience.
This unbelievably flavorful recipe marries the beloved American classic hot dog with the zesty, fermented goodness of sauerkraut. By preparing these two staples on a pellet grill, we infuse them with a deep, complex smoky flavor that renders them completely irresistible. Served nestled in soft, bakery-style hot dog buns and finished with a delicate sprinkling of caraway seeds, these smoked hot dogs and kraut are more than just a meal – they’re an experience.
Is there anything more quintessential to American summertime than the aroma of hot dogs sizzling on the grill? We argue that adding a delightful smoky twist and the perfect tangy kraut takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness, making it a perfect dish for gatherings, holidays, or any casual family dinner.
Looking for other mouth-watering dinner ideas that bring big flavor? Be sure to try my Slow Cooked Reuben Style Brats, my savory BBQ Smoked Sausage Sandwiches with Kraut, or the incredibly tender Crockpot Hawaiian BBQ Chicken Sandwiches!
This post is proudly sponsored by Frank’s Kraut, a brand whose sauerkraut I’ve cherished for a lifetime. All opinions and enthusiasm for their fantastic product are, as always, entirely my own.
Elevate Your Grilling with Frank’s Kraut
“Summertime and the livin’ is easy.” Indeed, there’s nothing quite like gathering outdoors on a warm summer day, the grill fired up, your favorite beverage in hand, anticipating a delicious meal cooked with love. Grilling is more than just cooking; it’s a cherished tradition that brings people together.
During the summer months, our household relies heavily on easy-to-prepare grilled favorites like burgers, hot dogs, and brats. They are not only simple to make but consistently deliver satisfying flavors. However, what truly transforms these good meals into truly *great* ones are the toppings. And without fail, in our kitchen, a generous jar of Frank’s Kraut is always a must-have accompaniment. Its distinct tangy flavor perfectly complements the rich, savory notes of grilled meats.
We keep Frank’s Kraut in our fridge all year long, but when summer rolls around, we find ourselves going through it at an incredible pace! There’s simply no other sauerkraut that compares to its consistent quality and perfect balance of tartness. It’s the secret ingredient that makes these smoked hot dogs truly sing.
Can You Smoke Hot Dogs? Absolutely!
How to Smoke Sauerkraut for Unforgettable Flavor
Smoking sauerkraut is surprisingly simple and adds an incredible layer of flavor that will impress everyone. If you’re already smoking meat, such as these hot dogs, incorporating the sauerkraut into the smoker is effortless. Simply add the Frank’s Kraut to a heat-safe dish – a cast-iron pan or aluminum foil pan works perfectly – and place it directly on the smoker alongside your hot dogs.
If you wish to serve smoked sauerkraut as a standalone side dish, the process is just as straightforward. Drain the sauerkraut slightly (or don’t, depending on your preference for moisture), place it in your heat-safe dish, and set your pellet grill to its “smoke” setting (usually around 180-225°F) for approximately 30 minutes. This low temperature and steady smoke infusion will impart a wonderful smoky essence without overcooking the kraut. Once it has absorbed the desired amount of smoke and is heated through, remove it from the smoker and serve immediately. The subtle smoky undertones complement the kraut’s natural tanginess beautifully, making it an addictive addition to any meal.
The Secret to Perfect Hot Dogs: Why Scoring Matters
Scoring a hot dog, or crosshatching its surface as you see in our photos, is a simple yet incredibly effective technique that yields superior results. This method involves making shallow, diagonal cuts across the casing of the hot dog. It serves several important purposes that enhance both the cooking process and the final eating experience.
Firstly, these small incisions allow heat to penetrate the meat more quickly and evenly, significantly shortening the overall cooking time. Secondly, scoring prevents the hot dog’s casing from bursting aggressively as it heats up, helping it maintain its appealing shape and preventing it from drying out. This means you get a beautifully cooked hot dog every time, without the common pitfalls of uneven heating or split casings.
Perhaps the most delightful benefit of this technique is how it prepares your hot dog to truly embrace all its toppings. Those little cracks and crevices created by the scoring act as perfect channels, allowing all that delicious smoked sauerkraut and your favorite condiments to nestle deeply into the hot dog. Every bite becomes a symphony of flavors, with the smoky meat, tangy kraut, and any other additions perfectly integrated. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference in flavor delivery!
Searching for the ideal side dishes to complement these perfectly flavored smoked hot dogs? Consider my crispy Homemade Double Fried French Fries, a classic and creamy Picnic Potato Salad, or my healthier Baked Sweet Potato Chips for a satisfying crunch. Any of these will make your meal a complete delight.
Beyond Flavor: Is Sauerkraut Healthy?
Absolutely! Sauerkraut is much more than just a delicious condiment; it’s a nutritional powerhouse often referred to as a “superfood.” Did you know that this humble fermented cabbage is loaded with immune-boosting vitamins that can significantly help ward off infections and support your overall well-being? It’s true!
Since sauerkraut is primarily made from cabbage, it is an excellent source of dietary fiber and aids tremendously in digestion. More importantly, as a fermented food, sauerkraut is packed with beneficial probiotics. These live microorganisms are vital for improving your overall gut health, which in turn impacts everything from your immune system to your mood. A healthy gut microbiome is fundamental for nutrient absorption and preventing various health issues.
Sauerkraut consistently ranks high on lists of foods to include in a healthy diet due to its rich nutrient profile. It’s a fantastic source of folate, vitamin B6, riboflavin, thiamin, and, notably, a substantial amount of vitamin K. These vitamins play crucial roles in energy production, nerve function, and blood clotting, among other bodily functions. So, not only does it taste great, but it’s also doing wonders for your health!
Eager to delve even deeper into the extensive benefits of sauerkraut and its versatile uses? I highly recommend checking out the comprehensive Ultimate Guide to Sauerkraut!
Essential Ingredients for Smoked Sauerkraut and Hot Dogs
This remarkably simple recipe relies on just a few key ingredients to deliver maximum flavor. For exact measurements, please refer to the detailed recipe card below.
- Jumbo Beef Franks: Opt for high-quality, jumbo beef franks for the best texture and flavor, ensuring they stand up well to the smoking process. While beef is traditional, you can easily substitute with turkey hot dogs or pork hot dogs if those are your preference. I specifically sought out the larger, butcher-style hot dogs from the meat counter, which offer a more satisfying bite once smoked.
- Frank’s Kraut: This is the star of our kraut, and a crucial ingredient for this recipe. We’re not just serving hot dogs with sauerkraut; we are actively smoking the sauerkraut as well, which infuses it with an incredible depth of smoky tanginess that complements the hot dogs perfectly. Frank’s Kraut delivers consistent quality and flavor that truly shines.
- Caraway Seed: These tiny seeds are a classic pairing with sauerkraut and brats, and for good reason! Caraway seeds enhance the overall flavor profile by adding a distinct hint of peppery citrus and subtle anise notes to the kraut. Their unique aroma marries beautifully with the smoky elements. If, however, caraway isn’t to your taste, you can simply omit them without significantly impacting the recipe’s core appeal.
- Hot Dog Buns: Don’t underestimate the power of a good bun! For this recipe, I highly recommend bypassing the standard packaged bread aisle and treating yourself to a package of soft, fresh, bakery-style hot dog buns from your local grocery store’s bakery section. Their superior texture and slight sweetness provide the perfect pillowy cradle for your smoked hot dogs and kraut.
How to Smoke Hot Dogs on a Traeger Grill (or Any Pellet Grill)
My recipe for the best smoked hot dogs and kraut is incredibly straightforward to prepare, making it accessible even for novice grillers. For a more exhaustive and printable step-by-step guide, please scroll down to the full recipe card.
PREP: Get Your Pellet Grill Ready
Begin by ensuring your pellet grill is adequately stocked with apple pellets. Applewood imparts a sweet, mild, and fruity smoke flavor that beautifully complements both the savory hot dogs and the tangy sauerkraut. Other fruit woods like cherry or even a blend of competition pellets would also work well, but apple is highly recommended for this particular recipe.
SET: Preheat Your Smoker
Set your pellet grill to the “smoke” setting, which typically ranges from 180°F to 225°F, and allow it to preheat for about 10 minutes. This initial phase is crucial for generating a clean, consistent smoke that will infuse maximum flavor into your food right from the start.
CUT: Score the Hot Dogs
Using a sharp knife, carefully make light crosshatch cuts across the entire surface of each hot dog. You needn’t go any deeper than about ⅛ of an inch; the goal is to create shallow channels that allow smoke and heat to penetrate, and for condiments to cling. This simple step will prevent bursting and create that desirable crispy texture.
PLACE: Prepare the Kraut
In a separate heat-safe dish (such as a ceramic baking dish or an aluminum foil pan), spread out your Frank’s Kraut. Evenly sprinkle the caraway seeds over the kraut, tossing gently to combine. This ensures every bite of kraut gets that lovely aromatic kick. The dish should be wide enough to allow for good smoke circulation around the kraut.
SMOKE: Infuse with Flavor
Carefully place the scored hot dogs (crosshatched side up for optimal presentation and flavor absorption) and the dish of seasoned kraut directly onto the grates of your smoker. Close the lid and smoke for an initial 15 minutes at the low “smoke” setting. This phase is crucial for developing that deep, authentic smoky flavor.
After the initial smoking period, increase the heat of your pellet grill to 350 degrees F. Continue to cook for another 15 minutes, or until the hot dogs reach an internal temperature of 140 degrees F. This higher temperature will ensure they are thoroughly cooked through and develop a pleasant snap to their casing. Always use your meat thermometer for accuracy!
SERVE: Assemble Your Masterpiece
Once the hot dogs and kraut are perfectly smoked and heated, carefully remove them from the grill. Place each hot dog into a soft hot dog bun, then generously top with the warm, smoky kraut. The combination of textures and flavors is truly spectacular.
ENJOY: The Ultimate Hot Dog Experience
These smoked hot dogs and kraut are best enjoyed immediately. Serve them as they are to savor the pure smoky-tangy goodness, or enhance them further with your favorite hot dog condiments. For me, a drizzle of classic yellow mustard is the perfect finishing touch, adding another layer of sharp flavor that beautifully cuts through the richness of the hot dog and complements the kraut.
YES!! The combination of smoky hot dogs and savory kraut is a definite winner!
Did you know that Frank’s offers more than just their classic kraut? They also have a fantastic Mustard Kraut, which is incredibly flavorful and adds a whole new dimension to your dishes!
Discover more about Frank’s Mustard Kraut and its delicious applications on their website. You can also see how I’ve used it to elevate these tender breaded pork cutlets for a truly memorable meal!
Loved this Recipe? Don’t Forget to Pin It!
Ensure you can easily find this delightful recipe again for your next grilling adventure! Don’t forget to save it to your favorite recipe board on Pinterest before you go. Sharing is caring, and your friends will thank you for this delicious discovery!
My loyal assistant, Theo, was right by my side throughout the entire smoking process for these sauerkraut and hot dogs. He certainly wasn’t going to miss out on any part of the action, or perhaps, a stray drop!
Beyond their classic and mustard varieties, Frank’s also offers a fantastic Sweet & Smoky BBQ Kraut! It’s perfect for adding a touch of sweetness and depth to savory dishes. You can see how wonderfully it pairs with these BBQ Smoked Sausage Sandwiches for a truly irresistible meal!
More Delicious Kraut Recipes to Explore
If you’ve enjoyed the versatility of sauerkraut in this recipe, you’ll be thrilled to discover the many other ways it can enhance your cooking. Frank’s Kraut truly shines in a diverse range of dishes, adding a unique tang and depth of flavor. Here are some of our other favorite kraut-infused recipes:
- Turkey Reuben a.k.a. The “Rachel” (pictured above, a delightful twist featuring Frank’s Mustard Kraut)
- Hearty Sauerkraut, Bratwurst and Potato Soup
- Savory Everything Sauerkraut Bread
- Classic Polish Noodles & Sauerkraut [Kluski Kapusta Kiszona]
- Traditional Polish Sauerkraut Soup (KAPUSNIAK)
- Elegant Bacon Wrapped Pork Loin with Sauerkraut Stuffing
- Irresistible Quick Pretzel Bites with Sauerkraut Cheddar Cheese Sauce
- Comforting Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup with Sauerkraut
- Deliciously Tangy Sauerkraut Balls
- Refreshing Sauerkraut Salad
Stay Connected for More Sauerkraut Inspiration!
To keep up with delightful new recipes and innovative ways to incorporate sauerkraut into your meals all year long, make sure to follow Frank’s Kraut on their various social media channels. They consistently share exciting ideas and culinary inspiration. Follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram for all things sauerkraut!
I sincerely hope you enjoy preparing and sharing this incredible recipe. May it quickly become a cherished family favorite in your home, bringing smiles and delicious memories with every smoky bite!
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Print Recipe
Smoked Hotdogs & Kraut
Equipment
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Thermapen ONE meat thermometer
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Frank’s Kraut, Shredded, Canned, 14-Ounce (Pack of 24)
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Traeger Pellet Grills Pro Series 780 Pellet Grill & Smoker
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Heat-safe dish (e.g., cast iron pan or aluminum foil pan)
Ingredients
- 6 Jumbo Beef Franks
- 1 ¼ cup Frank’s Kraut (drained slightly)
- ¼ teaspoon caraway seeds
- 6 bakery-style hot dog buns
Instructions
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Fill your pellet grill with high-quality apple pellets for optimal smoky flavor.
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Set your smoker to its dedicated “smoke” setting (typically 180-225°F) and allow it to preheat for approximately 10 minutes.
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Using a sharp knife, lightly crosshatch the skin of each hot dog. Aim for cuts about ⅛” deep to prevent bursting and enhance flavor absorption.
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In a heat-safe dish, combine the Frank’s Kraut with caraway seeds, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
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Place the scored hot dogs (crosshatched side up) and the dish of seasoned kraut onto the smoker grates. Smoke for 15 minutes at the low “smoke” setting. Afterward, increase the grill’s temperature to 350 degrees F and continue cooking for another 15 minutes, or until the hot dogs reach an internal temperature of 140 degrees F, checked with a meat thermometer.
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Carefully remove the hot dogs and kraut from the grill. Place each hot dog into a fresh hot dog bun and generously top with the warm, smoky kraut. Serve immediately and enjoy!