Crispy Air Fryer Hot Dogs are the easiest way to enjoy a classic favorite with a modern upgrade. With the air fryer, you’ll get juicy franks with a crisp snap and perfectly golden buns in less than ten minutes. This recipe makes weeknight dinners, game-day snacks, or casual gatherings effortless while still delivering that indulgent, hot-off-the-grill flavor.
The magic comes from brushing the buns with garlic-paprika butter before toasting. That simple step infuses smoky richness, elevating these hot dogs from ordinary to irresistible. It’s a quick technique that gives you the taste of a gourmet stand right at home.
Hot dogs have long been a beloved American tradition, first gaining fame at baseball stadiums in the late 1800s. Now, with the air fryer, they’re easier and crispier than ever before. Whether you enjoy them simply dressed or piled high with toppings, these Crispy Air Fryer Hot Dogs are sure to become your new go-to comfort food.
Recipe Yield: 4 servings
INGREDIENTS
4 hot dog buns
4 beef hot dogs
2 tablespoon melted butter
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
2 tablespoon shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Ketchup, mustard, relish, or favorite toppings
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat air fryer:
Set air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for 3 minutes.
2. Season and prep buns:
Mix melted butter with garlic powder and smoked paprika. Brush the mixture lightly on the inside of each bun.
3. Cook hot dogs:
Place hot dogs in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 5–6 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until heated through and edges are slightly crisp.
4. Toast buns:
Add buttered buns to the air fryer during the last 2 minutes. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese if desired, then toast until golden and melty.
5. Assemble and serve:
Tuck each hot dog into its toasted bun, add toppings, and serve immediately.
Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe
- Choose the right hot dogs: All-beef franks crisp up beautifully, but chicken or turkey hot dogs also work well in the air fryer.
- Layer the flavor: Brushing buns with seasoned butter before toasting gives them a smoky, buttery richness that elevates every bite.
- Top creatively: Move beyond ketchup and mustard — try spicy aioli, caramelized onions, jalapeños, or slaw for a gourmet twist.
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