Creepy Crawler Hot Dogs
Transform ordinary hot dogs into a spooky, fun treat that’s sure to delight kids and adults alike! Perfect for Halloween parties, these 'Creepy Crawler Hot Dogs' look like little worms wriggling on your plate. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, they're the ideal addition to any festive gathering. Pair them with your favorite condiments for added flavor, and watch as the kids go wild for these creepy yet delicious snacks. This recipe is a hit at my son's Boy Scout troop Halloween party, and it’s bound to be a hit at yours too!
12
Servings
70
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Bun-length hot dogs
12 (Cut lengthwise into quarters)
Mustard
to taste (for dipping)
Ketchup
to taste (for dipping)
Buns
Optional (for serving)
Instructions
1
Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2
Carefully cut each bun-length hot dog lengthwise into quarters, ensuring to not cut all the way through.
3
Place the cut hot dogs on a grill rack crosswise, ensuring they're evenly spaced.
4
Grill uncovered for about 5-7 minutes or until they start to curl and brown slightly, creating a worm-like appearance.
5
Prepare dipping sauces: pour mustard and ketchup into small bowls.
6
Serve the grilled 'Creepy Crawler Hot Dogs' with mustard and ketchup on the side. For an extra touch, place them in optional buns if desired.
Nutrition Information
5g
Fat
3g
Carbs
3g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Creepy Crawler Hot Dogs?
Creepy Crawler Hot Dogs are a fun Halloween-themed snack where hot dogs are cut and grilled to look like wriggling worms.
How do I make hot dogs look like worms?
By cutting bun-length hot dogs lengthwise into quarters (without cutting all the way through) and grilling them, the heat causes the strips to curl like worms.
What type of hot dogs should I use?
Bun-length hot dogs are recommended for this recipe to provide the best length for the 'worm' appearance.
Can I use regular-length hot dogs?
Yes, regular hot dogs work too, though they will produce slightly shorter 'crawlers' than bun-length ones.
How do I cut the hot dogs for this recipe?
Carefully cut each hot dog lengthwise into quarters, making sure you do not cut entirely through the meat.
Do I need to cut all the way through the hot dog?
No, you should ensure you do not cut all the way through so the 'worm' strips stay attached to a central base.
What grill temperature is best?
Preheat your grill to medium heat for the best results.
How long do the hot dogs need to grill?
Grill them uncovered for about 5 to 7 minutes until they start to curl and brown.
How should I place them on the grill?
Place the cut hot dogs crosswise on the grill rack to ensure they are evenly spaced and get those distinct grill marks.
Why do the hot dogs need to be grilled crosswise?
Placing them crosswise helps prevent them from falling through the grates and ensures even heat distribution for curling.
Can I make Creepy Crawler Hot Dogs in the oven?
While the recipe specifies grilling, you can achieve a similar effect by baking them at 400°F until they curl.
Are these suitable for a Halloween party?
Absolutely! They are a spooky and festive addition to any Halloween gathering or kids' party.
Can kids help make these?
Kids can help with the dipping sauces, but an adult should handle the cutting and the grill.
What condiments should I serve with them?
The recipe suggests serving them with mustard and ketchup in small bowls for dipping.
Do I need to serve them in buns?
Buns are optional for this recipe. You can serve the 'crawlers' alone on a plate or inside buns if preferred.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make 12 servings.
What is the calorie count for one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 70 calories.
How much fat is in one hot dog crawler?
There are 5 grams of fat per serving.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving provides 3 grams of protein.
Can I use turkey or veggie dogs?
Yes, you can substitute pork hot dogs with turkey or vegetarian alternatives, though curling behavior may vary slightly.
Can I prepare the cuts in advance?
Yes, you can cut the hot dogs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to grill.
Are these good for Boy Scout events?
Yes, this recipe has been a proven hit at Boy Scout troop Halloween parties!
How do I prevent the hot dogs from burning?
Keep a close eye on them while grilling uncovered and remove them as soon as they are slightly browned and curled.
What makes them look like worms?
The combination of the lengthwise quarter-cuts and the high heat of the grill causes the segments to bend and twist.
What other tags describe this recipe?
It is tagged as a quick and easy, grilled, fun food for kids' snacks.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
There are 3 grams of carbohydrates per serving.
Can I use a stovetop grill pan?
Yes, a stovetop grill pan will work perfectly if you don't have access to an outdoor grill.
What if I want more flavor?
You can experiment with different dipping sauces like BBQ sauce or spicy mustard.
How should I present them at a party?
Serve them on a large platter with the 'worms' wriggling around the dipping bowls for a spooky effect.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled hot dogs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.