Hot Dog Fries & Drink Recipe

Prepare

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) if baking fries. If frying, heat a heavy-bottomed pot with 2–3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Line a sheet pan with foil and place a wire rack on it (for baked fries) or a plate lined with paper towels (for fried fries).

Cook Fries

Baking method: Toss the frozen fries with 2 tablespoons oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Spread in a single layer on the wire rack and bake 18–25 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crisp. Frying method: Fry frozen fries in batches in the 350°F oil until golden and crisp, 3–5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels and season immediately with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.

Prepare Hot Dogs

While fries cook, make 3–4 shallow lengthwise slits in each hot dog (this helps them heat quickly and curl slightly). Heat a skillet over medium heat with 1 tablespoon oil. Add hot dogs and cook, turning occasionally, until browned and heated through, about 5–7 minutes. Alternatively, grill or poach if preferred. Slice each hot dog into 1/2-inch rounds.

Assemble

When fries are hot and crisp, transfer them to a large serving bowl or keep them on the sheet pan. Scatter the sliced hot dogs evenly over the fries. Spoon mustard, ketchup and sweet pickle relish over the fries and hot dog slices in dollops (or drizzle mustard and ketchup as desired). Sprinkle diced onion and shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

Melt Cheese (Optional)

If you want melted cheese, place the assembled fries under a preheated broiler for 1–2 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling. Watch carefully to avoid burning. Alternatively, return to the oven at 425°F for 3–5 minutes.

Finish

Remove from heat, season with remaining salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped chives or green onions if using. Serve immediately so fries stay crisp.

Fill four glasses with ice (about 1/4 cup per glass). Pour the chilled cola or root beer evenly among the glasses (about 1 cup per serving). Garnish each glass with a lemon or lime wedge if desired and serve alongside the hot dog fries immediately.