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Taco dogs loaded with seasoned ground beef, shredded cheese, salsa verde, lettuce, and crunchy tortilla chips in toasted buns.

Taco Dogs

These easy Taco Dogs combine juicy all-beef hot dogs, Mexican-spiced ground beef, melted cheese, salsa verde, and crunchy tortilla chips. Ready in just 25 minutes, they're a fun twist on taco night and perfect for busy weeknights or game day!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican, Mexican-Inspired
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

Taco Meat
Hot Dogs
Toppings
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican cheese blend
  • ½ cup salsa verde
  • 1 cup finely shredded iceberg lettuce
  • ½ cup crushed tortilla chips
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges for serving

Equipment

  • Large skillet: For browning and seasoning the ground beef
  • Grill pan or second skillet: For cooking the hot dogs
  • Wooden spoon: For breaking up the ground beef and stirring the taco meat
  • Knife and Cutting Board For prep
  • Measuring cups and spoons For measuring the seasonings, liquids, and toppings

Method
 

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking the beef into small crumbles, until browned and the onion has softened. Drain excess grease if necessary.
  2. Stir in The Spice Girl Kitchen Mexican spice blend, tomato paste, and salt. Cook for 30 to 60 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Pour in the water and stir until combined. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens into a lightly saucy taco filling. Taste and adjust the salt as needed.
  3. While the taco meat simmers, heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Add the hot dogs and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until heated through and lightly browned.
  4. Lightly butter the cut sides of the hot dog buns. Place them cut-side down in a warm skillet or on a griddle for 1 to 2 minutes, until golden brown.
  5. Place one hot dog in each toasted bun. Divide the warm taco meat evenly among the hot dogs, then sprinkle with shredded cheese. Allow the cheese to soften from the heat of the meat. Top with shredded lettuce, crushed tortilla chips, and a drizzle of salsa verde.
  6. Finish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime, if desired. Serve immediately while the buns are toasted and the tortilla chips are crunchy.

Video

Notes

  • Storage: Store leftover taco meat and cooked hot dogs separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Store fresh toppings separately and assemble just before serving.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare the taco meat up to 3 days in advance. Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water until heated through to 165°F. Cook the hot dogs and toast the buns just before serving.
  • Substitutions: Ground turkey can replace the ground beef. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend can replace cheddar. If you don't have The Spice Girl Kitchen Mexican spice blend, substitute your favorite taco seasoning and adjust the added salt to taste.
  • Variations: Add diced avocado, guacamole, pickled jalapeños, sour cream, or diced tomatoes. For extra heat, use pepper jack cheese or add hot sauce.
  • Nutrition (per serving, 6 servings): Approximately 650 calories, 37g carbohydrates, 35g protein, 41g fat, and 3g fiber. Nutrition information is an estimate. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.