Ingredients

  • For the Caramelized Onions:
    • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
    • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 teaspoon sugar
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
    • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra depth)
  • For the Beer Dogs:
    • 8 high-quality beef or pork hot dogs
    • 8 hot dog buns, preferably brioche or potato buns
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 cup lager or amber beer (e.g., Budweiser, Stella Artois, or a local craft lager)
    • 1/2 cup beef or chicken broth
    • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
    • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
    • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
    • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
    • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional Toppings:
    • Shredded cheddar or gruyere cheese
    • Chopped fresh parsley
    • Mustard or spicy brown mustard
    • Pickles or pickled jalapeños

Equipment

  • Large skillet (for caramelized onions)
  • Medium saucepan (for beer sauce)
  • Tongs
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Grill, grill pan, or skillet (for cooking hot dogs)

Instructions

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until melted.
  2. Add the sliced onions, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the onions evenly.
  3. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20–25 minutes, until the onions are soft, golden brown, and caramelized. Reduce heat to low if they start to burn.
  4. (Optional) Add balsamic vinegar during the last 2 minutes of cooking for extra flavor. Stir and cook until the vinegar is absorbed.
  5. Remove from heat and set aside. Keep warm.

Step 2: Prepare the Beer Sauce

  1. In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and lightly golden.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Pour in the beer, beef or chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
  5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Reduce heat to low to keep warm.

Step 3: Cook the Hot Dogs

  1. Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium heat.
  2. Lightly score the hot dogs with a few shallow diagonal cuts to prevent bursting and enhance flavor absorption.
  3. Grill or cook the hot dogs for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re heated through and have nice grill marks or a golden exterior.
  4. (Optional) For extra flavor, add the cooked hot dogs to the beer sauce and simmer for 2–3 minutes to soak up the flavors.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

  1. Lightly brush the insides of the hot dog buns with olive oil or butter (optional).
  2. Place the buns on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes until lightly toasted and golden.

Step 5: Assemble the Dogs

  1. Place a hot dog in each toasted bun.
  2. Spoon a generous portion of caramelized onions over each hot dog.
  3. Drizzle or spoon the beer sauce over the onions.
  4. Add optional toppings like shredded cheese, fresh parsley, mustard, or pickles as desired.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with classic sides like potato salad, coleslaw, or crispy fries.
  • Pair with a cold beer (the same type used in the sauce for consistency) or a refreshing iced tea.
  • For a crowd, keep the caramelized onions and beer sauce warm in slow cookers for easy self-serve assembly.

Prep Time

  • Preparation: 15 minutes
  • Cooking: 35–40 minutes
  • Total: 50–55 minutes

Servings

  • Makes 8 hot dogs

Notes

  • Make-Ahead: Caramelized onions can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
  • Non-Alcoholic Option: Substitute beer with non-alcoholic beer or additional broth with a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang.
  • Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based hot dogs and vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth.

Enjoy your delicious Caramelized Onion & Beer Dogs!