Description

These homemade pretzel dogs are stuffed with hearty chili, gooey cheese, and juicy hot dogs, all wrapped in a golden, chewy pretzel crust. Perfect for game day, parties, or any time you want a crowd-pleasing, comforting snack.

Ingredients

Scale

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
6 cups water (for boiling)
1/3 cup baking soda (for boiling)
8 beef or turkey hot dogs (or plant-based for vegetarian)
1 cup chili (thick, canned, leftover, or homemade)
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup diced red onion (optional)
1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Coarse kosher salt or pretzel salt (for sprinkling)
Optional: Sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions, or hot sauce for topping

Instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt.
Pour in warm water and melted butter. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then knead by hand or with a mixer for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if sticky.
Cover dough with a towel and let rest for 15-20 minutes.
While dough rests, warm chili in a small saucepan until thickened. Shred cheese and prep toppings.
Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Divide into 8 pieces. Roll each into a 14-inch rope and flatten into a rectangle.
Spread a spoonful of chili down the center, sprinkle with cheese, and place a hot dog on top. Fold dough over the dog, pinching edges and ends to seal. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Place seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Preheat oven to 425°F. Bring 6 cups water to a boil in a large pot. Stir in baking soda.
Using a slotted spoon, gently lower each pretzel dog into the water for 20-30 seconds. Remove and return to baking sheet.
Brush each pretzel dog with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse salt. Add extra cheese or jalapeños on top if desired.
Bake for 13-16 minutes, or until deep golden brown and bubbling. Rotate tray halfway through baking.
Let cool on tray for 5 minutes. Serve warm with extra chili, cheese sauce, or dipping sauces.

Notes

Use a thick chili to prevent leaks. Don’t overfill with chili and cheese for best results. You can prep the dough and wrap the dogs ahead, then boil and bake before serving. For a spicy twist, add jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese. For gluten-free or dairy-free, use appropriate substitutions.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 pretzel dog
Calories: 370
Sugar: 3
Sodium: 1050
Fat: 18
Saturated Fat: 8
Carbohydrates: 34
Fiber: 2
Protein: 17

Keywords: pretzel dogs, chili cheese, Super Bowl snacks, game day, party food, appetizer, homemade pretzel, comfort food