How To Cook Hot Dogs in Microwave? (In 2 Easy Steps)

Are you looking out for the fastest way of cooking a hot dog? Well, we got you covered with the best hacks to microwave hot dogs! No doubt microwaving hot dogs comes in handy when you’re short of time. However, there are some guidelines for microwaving hot dogs so they don’t burn or explode in your microwave.

I know, you’re probably skeptical about it and wondering if it’s even safe to microwave hot dogs in the first place. Right? Even we had to experience several exploded hot dogs only to bring out the best method and timing for juicy, intact, and delicious microwave hot dogs. The best part is that we’ll be sharing all of our tried and tested techniques with you all.

We want to take it a step further and show you a 2-step formula to bring out the perfect microwave hot dogs in less than a minute. Get our expert insights on How to microwave hot dogs? to How long does it take to microwave hot dogs? and much more about perfectly cooked hot dogs in this article. Now, let’s get started!

How to Cook Hot Dogs in Microwave?

Microwaving hot dogs is much easier, faster, and more convenient than the conventional methods. Not only do you save a lot of time, but you also get to wash lesser pots and pans. Not to mention how microwave hot dogs will rescue you from the hassle of firing up the grill.

Here’s our 2-step formula to bring out the perfect hot dogs:

  1. Take a hot dog and cover it with a damp paper towel
  2. Place the hotdog on a microwave-safe plate and microwave for 75 seconds on high power.

That’s how easy it is! Now let’s dig deep into the science behind these steps!

When we cover the hotdog in a damp paper towel, it helps in retaining the steam inside the towel. Which in turn brings out perfectly tender, juicy, and firm hot dogs. This technique also helps to prevent burning or drying out of your hot dogs.

Similarly, we recommend microwaving hot dogs for no more than a 30 seconds interval to ensure they don’t explode. However, if you notice they’re not evenly heated, microwave for another 30 seconds. Make sure to give at least a 20 seconds break between each microwaving interval to cool down the hot dogs. This way they won’t explode due to overheating.

Are you looking out for more tips and tricks for the best microwave hot dogs? Read further as we’ve covered all common concerns and frequently asked questions regarding microwaving hot dogs.

Is it safe to microwave hot dogs?

The simple answer is yes! It is safe to microwave hot dogs despite everyone telling you otherwise. However, you have to follow the instructions to avoid hot dogs with a cold interior and stiff, hardened or exploded ends.

Although, hot dogs are a pre-cooked product and just need to be reheated to be consumed. However, take it as an extra precaution to heat it to the recommended temperature to kill any bacteria that might be thriving in the meat.

As a rule of thumb, you must microwave hot dogs until their internal temperature reaches 75℃. This will ensure they’re heated through the core and thus considered safe for human consumption. This heads-up is especially crucial for the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems.

Did we tell you how you can avoid hot dogs with dry and tough textures? Well, simply microwave them for juicy, soft yet firm hot dogs.

How Long to Microwave a Hot Dog?

It just takes seconds to microwave a hot dog. However, certain factors impact this period. For example, microwave wattage, and the number of hot dogs you’re microwaving at one time.

The microwaves having the power of 1000 watts take no longer than 40 seconds to thoroughly warm a hot dog. The most practiced approach is to microwave hot dogs for 30 seconds and then check if it’s heated throughout.

If you notice the dog isn’t heated through, microwave it again for 30 seconds. Make sure to give intervals of 14 seconds between every 30 seconds of microwaving. This step will ensure your hot dogs don’t explode.

Similarly, you’ll have to increase the time if you plan to microwave multiple hot dogs at a time. For instance, it would roughly take 1 minute and 15 seconds to microwave 2 hot dogs. You’ll have to keep increasing the microwave time per the number of hot dogs at regular intervals after every 30 seconds of microwaving.

What Happens When You Put A Hot Dog In The Microwave For 2 Minutes?

If you happen to microwave a hot dog for 2 minutes straight away, it would most likely explode. That’s because steam pockets would accumulate inside the hotdog, making it explode. Quite interestingly, microwave hot dogs have very little to do with microwave power and cooking time.

The key is to prevent the steam from getting trapped inside the hot dogs. Thankfully, you can prevent your hot dogs from exploding by following these techniques:

  1. Prick the hot dogs with a fork or make gentle slits on the surface before microwaving. This will ensure the steam doesn’t get trapped inside the hot dogs.
  2. Another great technique is to cover your hot dogs in a damp paper towel. This will keep your hot dogs succulent and prevent burning or exploding.
  3. Furthermore, always try to keep the microwave period no more than 30 seconds to avoid exploding hot dogs.

Similarly, if you defrost the hot dogs or hot dog buns before microwaving, they’ll get heated evenly inside out. Defrosted hot dogs will take even less time to cook in the microwave and hence the chances of exploding are minimized.

How to Microwave hot dogs in Water?

Microwaving hot dogs immersed in water is another quick way of cooking them. However, we don’t recommend this method as it takes away most of the flavor, seasoning, and juices out of the hot dogs and into the water. Despite this, if you want to go ahead with this technique, follow these steps:

  1. Take a microwave-safe bowl and place the hot dogs inside of it.
  2. Now, add water into the bowl such that the hot dogs are completely covered.
  3. Microwave for 1 minute on high power

If you feel the hot dogs are not warmed enough, microwave again for 30 seconds. It’s important to take out the hot dogs with great precaution using a fork. That’s because the bowl and water would be steaming hot and you don’t want to burn your fingers.

We’ve also experienced that using chicken broth instead of water yields more flavorsome hot dogs. Furthermore, make sure to wipe off the water or broth from the hot dogs before you put them into buns to prevent soggy buns.

How to Microwave a Hot Dog and Bun?

We’ve got a quick solution to microwaving hot dogs inside the bun. However, it’s always best to microwave the hotdog and bun separately. Because the hot dogs take longer to warm compared to the buns, this method could lead to an overcooked hard bun. Despite the heads up, this technique comes in handy when you’re short on time and want your meal ready in a flash.

  1. Start by wrapping the hotdog inside the bun in a wet paper towel and place it on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Now microwave on high power for around 20 seconds.
  3. You can check if the hotdog is completely warmed after the first round of microwaving. If not, cover again, and repeat step 2 after a 10 seconds interval.
  4. Once the hot dog is warmed enough, take it out and top it with your favorite hotdog condiments.

Conclusion

Microwaving hot dogs are a bit tricky because there’s always a lingering fear of them exploding. However, once you follow all the tips and techniques discussed in this article, you can bring out the perfectly cooked hot dogs. And that without them burning, exploding, or drying out!

Now That You Know how to microwave hot dogs, your frozen hot dogs will come to life in seconds without even firing up the grill. No more grilling pots and pans to clean after your hotdog backyard parties and more of enjoying the juicy, delicious, and warm hot dogs. Since you made this far into reading this guide, we assume you’d love to read other time-saving microwaving food hacks on our website.

FAQ

How long should I cook frozen hot dogs?

When cooking frozen hotdogs, you should use high heat and cook them for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning several times during cooking so that they are cooked evenly on all sides. If using an oven, preheat it to 375°F (190°C) and bake the dogs for 25 minutes, flipping them over halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Can I reheat a cold Hot Dog?

Yes! You can safely reheat cold hot dogs by microwaving them in short bursts of time (30 seconds to 45 seconds), as this will help prevent them from drying out too quickly while ensuring that they are evenly heated through without burning. Alternatively, you can also place the cold hot dog on an oven-safe dish in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) and heat it until warmed through (around 8-10 minutes).

What is the best way to cook plain Hot Dogs?

The best way to cook plain/uncured/unflavored Hot Dogs is by boiling them in water first. Fill a pot with enough water that fully covers all of your Hot Dogs and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat; once boiling add your Hot Dogs and reduce heat slightly so that it continues simmering gently for 8-10 minutes; then remove your now cooked Hot Dogs from the pot with tongs or slotted spoon and serve warm either alone or with buns/condiments of choice!

Can you cook a hot dog in the microwave?

Yes, you can cook a hot dog in the microwave. It is important to use a paper towel or special plate designed for microwaving hot dogs to prevent them from exploding.

Are frozen hot dogs pre-cooked?

Yes, frozen hot dogs are generally pre-cooked and only require reheating until they are steaming before eating. This can be done in a skillet, oven, or microwave.

How long does it take to cook a plain hot dog?

It typically takes about 5 minutes for an average-size plain hot dog to cook in boiling water or on the grill. You can also heat up a cold or already cooked hot dog in about 1 minute in the microwave with no additional cooking required.

Do I need buns when eating microwaved hot dogs?

No, you do not necessarily need buns when eating microwaved hot dogs; however, they are often served inside of buns with condiments and toppings like ketchup and mustard for flavor.

How long should I cook two hot dogs?

When cooking two hot dogs at once, you’ll need to allow additional time for them to cook evenly. Start by heating your skillet or pan over medium heat, then place both hot dogs in the center of the skillet. Let them cook for about 8 minutes, flipping periodically so they don’t burn or stick together. Use a meat thermometer to ensure both are thoroughly cooked – they should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.

What are some tips for cooking two or more hot dogs evenly?

When cooking two or more hotdogs, it is best to cook them over low to medium heat for longer durations of time so that they can cook evenly. It is also important to turn the hot dogs regularly using tongs and flipping them over halfway through the cooking process to ensure even heating and prevent burning.

Is it safe to use the same paper towel when cooking multiple hotdogs?

Using the same paper towel when cooking multiple hotdogs is not recommended because fibers from other paper towels may be left behind, which could transfer onto your food and contaminate it with harmful bacteria during the cooking process. It’s best practice to use a new paper towel each time you cook one or more hot dogs.

Can you microwave hot dogs without water?

Yes, it is possible to microwave hot dogs without water. All you need to do is wrap the hot dog in a paper towel and place it on a plate before putting it in the microwave. The paper towel will help keep the hot dog from drying out as it cooks.

How long to microwave a hot dog in a bun?

The best way to heat up a hot dog in a bun is to use the defrost mode on your microwave. Place the hotdog in a bun and wrap it with a damp paper towel, set your microwave power level to 50 percent, and cook for 20-30 second intervals twice with a 10-second break between.

How to cook hot dogs in the microwave with water?

The best way to cook a hot dog using water and a microwave is by boiling them first. Fill enough water into bowl so that it’s about an inch above the surface of the bottom of your bowl then place your frozen or refrigerated frankfurters into the bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and put into your preheated oven at 80% power for 4 minutes per side or until cooked through completely..”

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