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Budget-Friendly Juicy Hot Dog and Burger Cookout Setup for Eight

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A straightforward, satisfying, and budget-friendly cookout setup featuring juicy burgers and classic hot dogs, perfect for casual summer parties or backyard barbecues.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds ground beef, 80/20 blend
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 8 classic beef hot dogs
  • 8 hot dog buns
  • 8 burger buns (brioche-style recommended)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 1 cup sliced dill pickles
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 medium tomato, sliced
  • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
  • Ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for grilling buns)
  • Aluminum foil (for keeping warm)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix gently but thoroughly without overworking the meat.
  2. Divide mixture into 8 equal portions (about 6 ounces each). Shape each into a round patty about ¾ inch thick, making a slight indentation in the center with your thumb.
  3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375–400°F). Clean and oil grates with vegetable oil or spray.
  4. Place patties on grill and cook 4–5 minutes on first side without pressing. Flip and cook another 4–5 minutes for medium doneness. Add cheese in last minute and close lid to melt.
  5. Grill hot dogs for 5–7 minutes, turning every 2 minutes until evenly charred and heated through.
  6. Brush buns lightly with oil and place cut side down on grill for 2–3 minutes until golden and slightly crispy.
  7. Assemble burgers and hot dogs with buns and toppings buffet-style. Use aluminum foil to tent cooked burgers to keep warm if needed.
  8. After cooking, clean grill grates while still warm with a wire brush.

Notes

Do not overwork the meat to keep patties tender and juicy. Make a thumb indentation in patties to prevent puffing. Avoid pressing patties while grilling to retain juices. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 160°F for safety. Toast buns quickly to add crunch and prevent sogginess. Patties can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; bring to room temperature before grilling. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Cheese can be substituted with vegan alternatives for dairy-free options.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot dog, burger, cookout, budget-friendly, summer party, backyard barbecue, easy recipe, grilling

Find it online: https://freshforkful.com/budget-friendly-juicy-hot-dog-and-burger-cookout-setup-for-eight-easy-party-guide/