We can all agree that hot dogs are an essential part of any cookout — so why is it that burgers get all the glory? We’re sure that it’s due, in part, to the topping situation. Burgers get a layer of melty cheese, crisp lettuce, tomato and onion. Hot dogs, on the other hand, are often piled up on a plate (sans accompaniment) and left as a self-serve choice for kids. We’re here to change all that. Whether you load them up with unexpected toppings or stick to classic combinations like chili and cheese, these recipes will take your dogs to the next level — and earn them their rightful place alongside all the other mouthwatering mains. Wondering where to start? Keep it simple and whip up a batch of Bobby’s homemade pickle relish. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a salty, grilled frankfurter.

Kardea says, "Talk about over the top, cousins! These aren't just any ole hot dogs. I top them with my smoky and sweet pulled pork (made super-quick in the Instant Pot®), pickled red cabbage for some color and tanginess, and more crunch with crushed pork rinds."

Now you don't have to make a trip to the Windy City to enjoy a version of the signature hot dogs smothered in classic condiments. A Chicago-Style Dog or Chicago Dog is usually boiled, but we chose to steam ours—it gives the hot dog a good snap, and the steamed buns are warm and squishy in the best way possible.

Fried hot dogs get slathered with a fried jalapeño cream cheese spread then topped with warm nacho cheese sauce and crunchy fried jalapeños. It's a loaded twist on a classic dog that brings serious popper flavor to the cookout table.

Tyler makes an easy, beefy chili spiked with ketchup and mustard, then spoons it over grilled dogs. A topping of grated cheese makes the perfect finish.

A quick miso-mayo and a topping of crunchy radishes, nori and fresh herbs turn your boring cookout hot dogs into an elevated, gourmet bite.

As much as we love to have the usual hot dog condiments, it's nice to amp it up a bit with something special every once in a while. This street-corn-inspired topping is the perfect way to do that. It's creamy, zesty and has a little kick.

This recipe elevates the hot dog by loading it up with a quick red cabbage slaw, slathering it with homemade barbecue sauce and topping it off with crispy onions.

What’s better than a hot dog? One that’s topped with green chiles, tomatoes and pork. We recommend adding about 2 tablespoons of flour to help thicken your chili mixture.

Combine two cookout classics into one perfectly portable bite with a snappy beef hot dog topped with smoky sweet baked beans.