How to Host a Hot Dog Bar

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Ball Park. The opinions and text are all mine.

I love grilling during the Summer. It is also one of my favorite ways to entertain during those Summer months. So I am going to show you how to host a hot dog bar.

Hot dogs are always a great option for Summer entertaining because they cook up so quickly. My favorite way to cook a hot dog is also on a grill! I love how the skin gets crisp and the grill just adds a great flavor.

If you do decide to serve hot dogs at you Summer gathering, a hot dog bar really is the way to go.

First, you want to pick a good quality dog to cook on the grill. Ball Park has a new line of Premium Beef Franks called Ball Park Park’s Finest. They are a great option.

This is their Finest Premium Hot Dog. Ever. It is available in five outstanding flavors -Slow Cooked Chili, Jalapeño Cheddar, Signature Seasoned, Slow Smoked Hickory, and Cracked Dijon Mustard. We tried all the flavors with the exception of the Cracked Dijon Mustard.

We loved every single one. However, everyone had their own favorite and the slow cooked chili was the most surprising. Everyone was so shocked at how it tasted exactly like a chili dog (This was my favorite).

The other great thing about these frankfurters is that they are made with 100% Beef, 0% Artificial Preservatives and no Nitrates or Nitrites, this game-changing frank is sure to become a legendary part of your grill.

Second, you need buns. Now don’t just go for those regular white buns. Those are great for everyday, but you need to go beyond the regular for your hot dog bar. Look for more gourmet type buns. I got some from my local bakery, but you can even find some on the bread isle at the grocery store.

The last thing you need is toppings. Since my Ball Park Park’s Finest beef franks were so full of flavor, I didn’t need to get too elaborate on the toppings. I do recommend placing any condiments you can into squeeze bottles.  It’s easier for your guests and makes less mess.

This is what I served at my hot dog bar:

• Mustard – there are so many  types you can buy, my favorite is deli mustard
• Ketchup – There are now flavored ketchup you can also choose from
• BBQ Sauce – again lots of flavor to pick from
• Sweet Pickle Relish
• Dill Pickle Spears
• Chopped Onion
• Diced Tomatoes

Other great options that you could also include:

• Mayonnaise
• Bacon Bits
• Cheese
• Salsa
• Roasted Red Peppers
• Pickle Jalapenos
• Diced Green Peppers
• Diced Green Onion
• Caramelized Onions

On August 13th, Ball Park and a team of grill masters will attempt to break the world record for the longest running group BBQ at the Finest Grillathon in New York City using Ball Park Park’s Finest hot dogs.