I Made ‘Hot Dog Burnt Ends’ for the Easiest Barbecue Ever

Kristina Vanni for Taste of Home

Published on Jun. 06, 2025

As grilling season kicks off, the internet is buzzing with hot dog burnt ends recipes. We decided to test them out to see if they were as good as people claim.

The latest grilling craze on social media this summer is hot dog burnt ends. Picture the delicious taste of the traditional Kansas City barbecue dish, but in an easy-to-make grill recipe form. Prepare to elevate your hot dog game with this viral sensation.

Although I was initially doubtful, I was eager to join in. I followed the method from Taste of Home’s own creator @girldadskitchen on Instagram and used the recipe provided. After that initial bite, it was evident why everyone is raving about hot dog burnt ends.

What exactly are hot dog burnt ends?

When smoking a brisket, burnt ends are created from the charred and crispy tips of the meat during cooking. What was once a discarded piece transforms into mouthwatering barbecue goodness when combined with a sweet and tangy sauce.

For those of us lacking the time or resources to smoke a whole brisket just to enjoy a few bites of those coveted burnt ends, the idea of the hot dog version was born. Hot dogs are scored, seasoned, charred, and sauced to mimic the texture and cooking method of burnt ends.

Ingredients for Hot Dog Burnt Ends:

– Hot Dogs: Opt for your preferred hot dog brand for best results.
– Mustard: Classic yellow mustard is recommended for preparing the hot dogs. Save fancier mustards for the dipping sauce.
– Barbecue Rub: Use a homemade blend or store-bought rub.
– Barbecue Sauce: Make your own or choose a quality store-bought sauce.
– Dipping Sauce: A simple hot honey mustard recipe was suggested in the video.

How to Make Hot Dog Burnt Ends

Score hot dog links, coat with mustard, sprinkle with barbecue rub, and grill slowly. Cut into bite-sized pieces, toss in barbecue sauce, and return to the grill for a glossy finish.

Enjoy the hot dog burnt ends solo or dip in honey mustard sauce.

Are hot dog burnt ends worth it?

Sometimes called budget barbecue bites, hot dog burnt ends offer a fun twist on a classic dish. While they require some grill time, the cooking process is relatively hands-off. The effort pays off with a fantastic texture and delicious taste. It’s a fresh way to enjoy hot dogs, and the sweet and spicy dipping sauce is a hit. I look forward to making them for summer gatherings!

Related:
– Grill Nation: Our Ultimate Guide to Grilling
– The Best Grills, According to Our Test Kitchen’s Grilling Expert
– Summer Potluck Recipes to Feed a Crowd