Hot Diggity Dog! 11 Ways to Celebrate National Hot Dog Day

Whether it's been on your calendar for months or it comes as news to you, today is National Hot Dog Day! While hot dogs may not hold a place of honor on the food pyramid, they do make a perfect kid-friendly summertime splurge every now and again. From the classic grilled dog on a bun to some unexpected twists (pizza dogs, anyone?), we've found 11 ways for you and your family to honor the good old-fashioned American favorite today.

01
Pigs in a Blanket — 2 Ways

Pigs in a Blanket — 2 Ways

Peter Callahan's fun twist on pigs in a blanket offers tots and grown-ups their own versions of the popular party dish.

02
Chili-Cheese Dog Casserole

Chili-Cheese Dog Casserole

This four-ingredient casserole is seriously family-friendly comfort food. From Veronica's Cornucopia, this recipe is sure to become a new hot dog favorite. Make a fresh salad to accompany this cheesy dish, and dinner is served!

03
Peach Salsa Dogs

Peach Salsa Dogs

Summer-ready peach salsa dogs are refreshing, are unexpected, and can be kicked up a notch (or not) with the addition of cilantro and jalapeños.

04
Seashell Pasta Bake

Seashell Pasta Bake

This simple hot dog casserole can be on the table in less than 40 minutes, and you can customize it by adding your kids' favorite veggies to the mix.

05
Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs

Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs

Caramelized onions and a crispy bacon coating give these bacon-wrapped dogs a bit of gourmet flair.

Photo: Nicole Perry

06
Mini Corn Dog Muffins

Mini Corn Dog Muffins

Perfect as a light dinner or afternoon snack, these mini corn dog muffins from Iowa Girl Eats are so much fun! Serve them with a big salad or some grilled veggies for a well-balanced meal.

07
Pizza Dogs

Pizza Dogs

Put an Italian spin on all-American hot dogs with Real Simple's recipe for pizza dogs.

08
Hot Dog Pinwheels

Hot Dog Pinwheels

Pie crust elevates the simple dog to new levels! Duh-licious offers a simple recipe that the kids can even help make. Serve the hot dogs whole for dinner, or cut them up for a savory snack.

Source: Duh-licious

09
Make a Hot Dog Bar

Make a Hot Dog Bar

Follow these easy instructions on how to set up your own hot dog bar from POPSUGAR Food. It's an interactive meal that you can enjoy as a family or with a larger group.

10
Hot Dog Mac and Cheese Casserole

Hot Dog Mac and Cheese Casserole

There's nothing more kid-friendly than hot dogs and homemade macaroni and cheese. Take the combo to the next level by combining the two into an easy casserole that will make the whole family excited to sit down for dinner.

Source: BlogChef

11
Grilled Hot Dog Skewers and Creamy Avocado Dip

Grilled Hot Dog Skewers and Creamy Avocado Dip

Swapping out buns for skewers, these hot dog dippers from Family Fresh Cooking are a fun alternative to your traditional dog.