15 Toppings for Hot Dogs and Brats You Must Try

I’ve always been a fan of a good old-fashioned hot dog or brat. There’s just something about sinking your teeth into that juicy, grilled goodness that brings back memories of summer picnics and backyard barbecues.

But let’s be honest, plain ketchup and mustard can get a bit boring after a while. That’s why I’ve scoured the culinary world to bring you 15 mouthwatering toppings that will take your hot dog experience to a whole new level.

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these must-try creations.

Classic Mustard and Ketchup

If you’re a fan of classic hot dog toppings, you must try the combination of mustard and ketchup. There’s just something about the tangy yellow mustard and the sweet tomato ketchup that perfectly complements the smoky flavor of a grilled hot dog.

The mustard adds a zesty kick, while the ketchup adds a touch of sweetness. When you take that first bite and the flavors of both condiments mix together, it’s like a flavor explosion in your mouth.

The mustard and ketchup combination is a tried and true favorite for a reason – it’s simple, delicious, and brings out the best in any hot dog. So next time you’re grilling up some dogs, don’t forget to slather on that classic mustard and ketchup combo.

Tangy Sauerkraut

Don’t miss out on the tangy sauerkraut – it adds a delicious kick to your hot dogs and brats!

I absolutely love sauerkraut on my grilled sausages. The tanginess of the fermented cabbage pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the meat.

When I take a bite, the crispness of the sauerkraut adds a refreshing crunch that enhances the overall texture of the dish.

The acidity of the sauerkraut cuts through the richness of the hot dog or brat, creating a well-balanced and mouthwatering combination.

Whether I’m at a barbecue or enjoying a quick meal at home, sauerkraut is a must-have topping. Its unique flavor profile elevates the taste of any hot dog or brat, guaranteeing a satisfying and flavorful experience.

Spicy Sriracha Mayo

Indulge in the creamy heat of the spicy Sriracha mayo – it’s the perfect condiment to add a fiery kick to your favorite grilled dishes.

I absolutely love this stuff! The combination of the smooth mayo with the fiery heat of Sriracha sauce is simply irresistible. It adds a burst of flavor to any dish it touches.

Whether I’m slathering it on a juicy grilled burger or using it as a dipping sauce for crispy french fries, the spicy Sriracha mayo never disappoints. It’s the perfect balance of creamy and spicy, creating a mouthwatering experience with every bite.

I can’t imagine enjoying my grilled dishes without this delicious condiment. It truly takes them to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Creamy Coleslaw

Mix together the creamy coleslaw dressing with shredded cabbage and carrots for a refreshing and tangy side dish.

I love making this creamy coleslaw to accompany my hot dogs and brats. It adds a cool and crisp element to the meal, balancing out the richness of the meat.

The creamy dressing coats the cabbage and carrots perfectly, giving each bite a creamy and tangy flavor. The shredded cabbage provides a satisfying crunch, while the carrots add a touch of sweetness.

This coleslaw is so easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient and delicious option for any summer barbecue or cookout.

Give this creamy coleslaw a try and elevate your hot dog or bratwurst experience to the next level.

Zesty Chili and Cheese

To add an extra kick to your meal, pile on the zesty chili and cheese for a burst of flavor. I absolutely love adding this combination to my hot dogs and brats. There’s just something about the spicy chili and gooey cheese that takes these classic favorites to a whole new level.

The zesty chili adds a rich and savory taste, while the melted cheese brings a creamy and indulgent texture. It’s the perfect marriage of flavors that satisfies my taste buds every time.

Whether I’m at a backyard barbecue or enjoying a quick lunch, I always make sure to load up my hot dogs and brats with this delicious duo. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never go back!

Crispy Bacon Bits

After indulging in the zesty chili and cheese combination, I couldn’t resist exploring another mouthwatering topping for hot dogs and brats. And what better choice than crispy bacon bits?

The smoky aroma and the satisfying crunch of bacon elevate the flavor of any grilled sausage. As soon as the bacon hits the heat, it sizzles and releases its savory essence, enticing my taste buds. Once crispy and golden brown, I sprinkle the bacon bits generously on top of the hot dog or brat, creating a heavenly symphony of textures and tastes.

The saltiness of the bacon perfectly balances the richness of the meat, while adding a delightful hint of smokiness. It’s like a flavor explosion with every bite. Trust me, once you try this irresistible combination, you’ll never want a plain hot dog or brat again.

Grilled Onions and Peppers

As I grill the onions and peppers, their natural sweetness intensifies and their flavors meld together, creating a mouthwatering accompaniment for my hot dog or brat.

The sizzle of the vegetables hitting the hot grill fills the air, releasing their enticing aroma.

I love how the onions caramelize, turning golden brown and becoming soft and tender. The peppers, on the other hand, char slightly, adding a smoky flavor to the mix.

When you take a bite, the combination of the sweet onions and slightly spicy peppers adds a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the savory hot dog or brat.

The grilled onions and peppers bring a delightful crunch and a burst of freshness that takes your hot dog or brat to the next level.

Fresh Salsa and Guacamole

The freshness of the salsa and the creaminess of the guacamole make them the perfect accompaniments for any Mexican dish.

I love how the vibrant flavors of the salsa brighten up every bite, adding a burst of freshness and tanginess. Whether it’s made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, or jalapenos, salsa always brings a zesty kick to the table.

And then there’s guacamole, oh how I adore its creamy texture and rich avocado flavor. It’s like a smooth and velvety dream on my taste buds.

The combination of these two toppings is simply unbeatable. They complement each other so well, creating a harmony of flavors that takes any Mexican dish to the next level.

From tacos to enchiladas, salsa and guacamole are essential for that authentic and satisfying experience.

Smoky BBQ Sauce

I can’t resist the smoky flavor of BBQ sauce on grilled chicken or ribs. There’s just something about that tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy combination that makes my taste buds dance with delight.

Whether it’s a backyard cookout or a summer barbecue, BBQ sauce is a must-have condiment for me. I love the way it enhances the natural flavors of the meat and adds that irresistible smokiness.

The richness of the sauce, with its thick texture and bold aroma, creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to beat. Whether I’m slathering it on a juicy grilled chicken breast or brushing it onto succulent ribs, BBQ sauce takes my meal to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Pickled Jalapenos

Don’t forget to add some pickled jalapenos for an extra kick of heat to your favorite dishes.

I absolutely love the fiery flavor that pickled jalapenos bring to any meal. Whether I’m topping off a juicy hot dog or loading up a brat, these spicy peppers never disappoint.

The tanginess of the pickling liquid combined with the heat of the jalapenos creates a perfect balance of flavors. The crunch of the peppers adds a satisfying texture that takes any dish to the next level.

I find that the pickled jalapenos not only enhance the taste of my food, but they also add a vibrant pop of color.

Sweet and Tangy Pineapple Relish

Make sure to try adding some sweet and tangy pineapple relish to your dish for a burst of tropical flavor.

I love the combination of the juicy pineapple chunks with the hint of tanginess from the vinegar and spices.

It adds a refreshing twist to any hot dog or bratwurst.

The sweetness of the pineapple perfectly balances the savory flavors of the meat, creating a delicious harmony in every bite.

The relish also adds a vibrant pop of color to your dish, making it visually appealing.

Whether you’re grilling up hot dogs for a backyard barbecue or enjoying a quick meal at home, the pineapple relish is a must-have topping that will elevate your dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Savory Mushroom and Swiss Cheese

For a savory twist to your dish, try adding some delicious mushroom and Swiss cheese.

I absolutely love this combination on my hot dogs and brats. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms pairs perfectly with the creamy, nutty taste of Swiss cheese.

It adds a whole new level of richness and depth to the overall flavor profile. The mushrooms are sautéed to perfection, enhancing their natural umami taste, while the Swiss cheese melts beautifully, creating a gooey and indulgent topping.

I also like to add some caramelized onions and a drizzle of Dijon mustard to complete the ensemble. Trust me, once you try this savory combination, you’ll never look back.

It’s a game-changer for your hot dogs and brats.

Tangy Dill Pickle Spears

To enhance the tangy flavor of your dish, try adding some crispy dill pickle spears. I can’t get enough of these delicious pickles. The crunchiness and tanginess are the perfect complement to any hot dog or brat.

Whenever I fire up the grill, I make sure to have a jar of dill pickle spears on hand. They add that extra burst of flavor that takes my meal to the next level. Whether I’m enjoying a classic hot dog with mustard and ketchup or a gourmet bratwurst with fancy toppings, the dill pickle spears never disappoint.

Their zesty taste cuts through the richness of the meat and adds a refreshing element to every bite. Trust me, you won’t regret trying these crispy dill pickle spears on your next hot dog or brat.

Creamy Mac and Cheese

I can’t resist the creamy goodness of mac and cheese. The way the cheese melts into the pasta, creating a velvety sauce that coats every bite, is simply irresistible.

Whether it’s a classic stovetop version or a fancy gourmet twist, mac and cheese always hits the spot. The combination of tender pasta and gooey cheese is a match made in comfort food heaven.

I love the versatility of mac and cheese too. It can be enjoyed as a side dish or as a main course, and you can even add different ingredients like bacon, jalapenos, or truffle oil to elevate the flavors.

No matter how it’s prepared, mac and cheese will always be my go-to comfort food.

Crunchy Potato Chips

Don’t underestimate the satisfying crunch of potato chips. They may seem like a simple snack, but they hold a special place in my heart. Whenever I bite into a crispy chip, I can’t help but feel a sense of pure satisfaction. The sound of that crunch is music to my ears.

Whether I’m enjoying them on their own or using them as a topping, potato chips add the perfect texture and flavor to any dish. They provide a delightful contrast to the softness of a hot dog or brat, elevating the overall experience.

So next time you’re enjoying a hot dog or brat, don’t forget to add some crunchy potato chips on top. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hot dogs and brats are the ultimate canvas for creativity when it comes to toppings. From classic favorites like mustard and ketchup to more adventurous choices like spicy sriracha mayo and zesty chili and cheese, the possibilities are endless.

But did you know that Americans consume approximately 20 billion hot dogs each year? That’s enough to stretch from the Earth to the moon and back!

So next time you’re grilling up some hot dogs or brats, don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings and join the millions of hot dog enthusiasts across the country.