Cheesy Hot Dogs with Pickle Mustard Sauce & Crispy Onions Recipe
Introduction
Cheesy hot dogs with pickle mustard sauce and crispy onions are a fun and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. This recipe combines savory bratwurst, melted mozzarella, and a tangy homemade sauce for a satisfying bite every time.

Ingredients
- 8 large bratwurst-style sausages
- 80g grated mozzarella
- 8 brioche hot dog buns
- 50g crispy onions
- Ketchup, to serve (optional)
- 50g mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp American-style yellow mustard
- 5 cornichons, finely chopped
Instructions
- Step 1: Make the pickle mustard sauce by combining the mayonnaise, mustard, and finely chopped cornichons in a bowl. Chill the sauce until needed to let the flavors meld.
- Step 2: Heat your barbecue until the coals are ashen, or alternatively, heat a griddle pan over high heat. Cook the sausages for 7-8 minutes, turning regularly until they are evenly browned and cooked through.
- Step 3: Push the cooked sausages together on the grill or in the pan, then sprinkle the grated mozzarella evenly over them. Cook without moving for 2 minutes, or until the cheese has melted beautifully.
- Step 4: Split the brioche hot dog buns open and place a cheese-topped sausage inside each. Drizzle over the pickle mustard sauce, then top with crispy onions and a little ketchup if you like.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, toast the hot dog buns lightly on the grill before assembling.
- Try swapping mozzarella for cheddar or a spicy pepper jack to add a kick.
- If you don’t have cornichons, finely chopped dill pickles work well as a substitute.
- Add a few pickled jalapeño slices to the sauce for some heat.
Storage
Store any leftover sausages and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat sausages gently in a pan or microwave before assembling. Crispy onions are best added fresh just before serving to maintain their crunch.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular hot dog sausages instead of bratwurst?
Yes, you can substitute bratwurst with your preferred hot dog sausages, though bratwurst adds a richer, more robust flavor.
How do I keep the crispy onions from getting soggy?
Always add crispy onions as the last step just before serving. Storing them separately and adding them fresh keeps them crunchy.
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Cheesy Hot Dogs with Pickle Mustard Sauce & Crispy Onions Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Savor the delicious blend of smoky, cheesy bratwurst-style sausages nestled in soft brioche buns, topped with a tangy pickle mustard sauce and crunchy crispy onions. This recipe offers a perfect balance of creamy mozzarella melt, zesty mustard, and crisp textures for an unforgettable gourmet hot dog experience.
Ingredients
Sausages & Cheese
- 8 large bratwurst-style sausages
- 80g grated mozzarella
Buns & Toppings
- 8 brioche hot dog buns
- 50g crispy onions
- Ketchup, to serve (optional)
Pickle Mustard Sauce
- 50g mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp American-style yellow mustard
- 5 cornichons, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Pickle Mustard Sauce: In a bowl, combine 50g of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of American-style yellow mustard, and 5 finely chopped cornichons. Mix thoroughly until well blended, then chill the sauce until you’re ready to serve.
- Cook the Sausages: Heat your barbecue until the coals are ashen or alternatively, preheat a griddle pan over high heat on the stove. Place the bratwurst-style sausages on the grill or pan and cook for 7-8 minutes, turning regularly to ensure even browning and thorough cooking.
- Melt the Cheese on Sausages: Once cooked, push the sausages together on the grill or in the pan and evenly scatter the 80g of grated mozzarella over them. Cook undisturbed for an additional 2 minutes or until the cheese has fully melted and starts to bubble.
- Assemble the Hot Dogs: Split open each brioche hot dog bun and place a cheese-topped sausage inside. Drizzle a generous amount of the chilled pickle mustard sauce over the sausages, sprinkle with 50g of crispy onions for crunch, and add ketchup if desired for extra flavor.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh brioche buns as they add a slight sweetness and softness that complements the savory sausage and cheese.
- If you don’t have access to a barbecue or griddle pan, a non-stick skillet can be used to cook the sausages on the stovetop.
- The pickle mustard sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To make the dish spicier, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the pickle mustard sauce.
- Ensure sausages are cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for safety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Stovetop
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cheesy hot dogs, bratwurst, pickle mustard sauce, crispy onions, grilled sausages, brioche buns, summer BBQ

