The Best Hot Dog Cookers (Review) in 2020
The hot dog is no longer just food or a quick snack in between meals, it has now become part of popular culture. From miniature to giant size, a hot dog is arguably a perfect fit for any kind of occasion or formal / informal gathering. Whether you are having a family cookout or a get-together for friends and loved ones, someone will ask where the hot dog is. However, making hot dogs for everyone can be quite a task. That is why you need a hot dog cooker. To make things easy for you, we have reviewed ten of the best hot dog cookers available on the market. Watch out for our top pic at the end of the article.

Retro-inspired design
Adjustable timer settings
Comes with mini tongs and hot dog cage
Cooks a pair of hot dogs and buns at once

Professional-grade hot dog cooker steamer
Heavy-duty, rust-proof, 20-gauge stainless steel
Low-water auto-shutoff mechanism
Maximum capacity: 200 hot dogs and 42 buns

Whimsical diner-style Coca-Cola-themed hot dog cooker
Maximum capacity: 12 buns and 24 hot dogs
2-level heat settings: warm and high
Easy-view water level window
The Best Hot Dog Cooker
1.
Nostalgia Retro Pop-Up 2 Hot Dog Cooker

It has enough space for two hot dogs at a time
It has two larger spaces for toasting buns
It comes with a dip tray
It comes with a temperature regulator
Let us kick off with Nostalgia’s HDT600 RETRORED Pop-Up Retro Toaster. If you want to make hot dogs for a small gathering of people, then you need Nostalgia’s Retro Hot Dog Cooker. A simple look at it will tell you why it is given that name, Retro. With this hot dog cooker, you can make two hot dogs of regular size and have some extra space for a larger size hot dog. The two regular size spaces will allow you to cook two hot dogs at the same time. Aside from that, this hot dog cooker comes with a cooking timer that can be adjusted. This means that you cannot overdo your cooking. Plus, the cooker also comes with a dog cage that can be removed. This is especially beneficial when it comes to cleaning the hot dog cooker as it makes cleaning easier and even more comfortable. Also available in this hot dog cooker is a dip tray. And because you will need something to remove the hot dog from the hot dog machine, a pair of mini tongs have been made available. A control panel is also included in this cooker.
2.
Olde Midway Electric Hot Dog Cooker

It comes with a seven-roller griller
It has a removable drip tray
It has enough space for eighteen hot dogs
It has a two-way temperature regulator
Olde Midway’s Electric Hot Dog Machine Cooker offers you an easy way to prepare hot dogs for a large gathering. It is made of quality stainless steel and constructed to have enough space to make it a commercial grade hot dog cooker. This hot dog roller grill machine comes with a griller that has seven rollers that are all non-stick. The rollers can contain an impressive number of eighteen hot dogs. But that is not all. You not limited to hot dogs only. You can also cook some sausages with it and even roll up your sleeves to work some magic on taquitos with it. In front of it is a control panel with an easy to use interface. The control panel comes with a temperature regulator that goes two ways. The temperature controllers are responsible for both the front and back rollers. The back rollers are responsible for cooking the hot dogs while the front rollers keep the already cooked hot dogs warm while they wait to be served.
3.
Nostalgia Large Coca-Cola Diner-Style Hot Dog Cooker

It has enough space for twenty-four hot dogs
It comes with a warming tray
It has a temperature dial
It comes with a steamer
Nostalgia makes a second appearance on our list with this HDS248COKE Coca Cola Hot Dog Steamer. Nostalgia has teamed up with Coca Cola to come up with this hot dog steamer. It has been designed for a larger gathering as it has the capacity to cook twenty-four hot dogs at a time. Its design also means that it can be used for other cooking projects such as steaming sausages for breakfast, dumplings, bratwursts, fish, vegetables, and so much more. At the top of the hot dog maker is a bun warming tray. It has enough space to hold up to twelve regular size buns at a time. So, while your hot dogs are cooking beneath, your buns are being kept warm and ready to enjoy. It has been designed to be easy to use and comes with a dial that regulates between high, warm, and off. This will make sure that cooking time is an easy and effortless time. All you need to do is it add some water, turn the dial to high, and let the hot dog steamer work its magic. It will cook your hot dogs between fifteen and twenty minutes. The design makes for a water level window that is easy to view.
4.
Clevr Commercial Hot Dog Grill Cooker

It has a dual temperature regulator
It has enough space for thirty hot dogs at a time
It comes with stainless steel rollers
It comes with a grill
Clevr’s Hot Dog Roller Machine is next on our list. This hot dog roller machine and grill comes in a construction that is made of double stainless steel. This does not only ensure that it is easy to clean, but it also allows for even heat distribution to make sure that your hot dogs are properly grilled. It also comes with a simple control interface that has a power on and off button as well as temperature regulators. It has a dual temperature control system with one located in front of the machine and the other located at the rear. This allows it to perform two functions at the same time. The rear rollers focus on grilling the hot dog while the front ones keep them warm to be served. Also, the rollers rotate at an angle of three hundred and sixty degrees.
5.
Nostalgia Extra Large Diner-Style Hot Dog Steamer

It has the capacity for twenty-four hot dogs per batch
It comes with a warmer
It has a steaming compartment
It comes with a temperature dial
Nostalgia returns with this HDS248RD Extra Large Dinner-Style Steamer. This extra-large steamer from Nostalgia should be on your list of options if you are planning to make hot dogs for a large gathering. This is because it comes with a cooking capacity of twenty-four hot dogs in a batch. To add to that, you can also warm up to twelve regular size buns at a time while you are steaming your hot dogs. The warming compartment is located on top of the steaming compartment. To make your cooking more effective, Nostalgia’s HDS248RD Extra Large Steamer comes with a dial to control the heat at three different levels. This steamer also comes with an easy-view water level viewer to help make sure that you do not add too much or too little amount of water. All you need to do is to add your water, then turn the dial to“high,” and allow the hot dog steamer to do its work. It will cook your hot dogs between fifteen and twenty minutes.
6.
The Candery Hot Dog Roller

It has enough space for six hot dogs per batch
It is made of commercial-grade stainless steel
It comes with a temperature regulator
It comes with removable trays
The Candery’s Hot Dog Roller Grill Cooker Machine is next on our list. Candery’s hot dog maker is medium size and is a great option for the regular family size. It comes with a cooking capacity of six hot dogs. Thus, this hot dog cooker should be sitting on your kitchen cabinet if you have an average family size. The design is crafted with commercial-grade stainless steel. It has four non-stick rollers that rotate at three hundred and sixty degrees and, thus, make sure that your hot dogs are perfectly grilled. It has a simple control interface consisting of a simple temperature regulator and an indicator. The regulator controls the temperature between high, low, and power on or off. Below the non-stick rollers is a drip pan that can be easily removed and cleaned. You can use Candery’s hot dog cooker for various other cooking projects such as egg rolls, kielbasa, sausages, vegetables, and so much more.
7.
Giantex Electric Hot Dog Grill Cooker

It comes with a capacity for eighteen hot dogs per batch
It comes two temperature dials
It is made of stainless steel
It works as a grill and a warmer
Next up is this Commercial Hotdog Roller Machine by Giantex. This commercial-grade hot dog maker can grill up to eighteen hot dogs in a single batch. It has seven non-tick stainless steel rollers that spin constantly at three hundred and sixty degrees to give your hot dogs an even grill. Because the construction is also made of stainless steel, it ensures that there is an even distribution of heat across the grilling surface to give you delicious and evenly cooked hot dogs. Aside from hot dogs, the grill can also be used for other cooking projects such as grilling sausages, meat, fish, vegetables, and so much more. Because it has a large capacity, it is ideal for a large gathering. Also, because the rollers are made of stainless steel, they do not rust easily. Thus, your food is safe and protected from food poisoning from rusted metal. Giantex’s Electric Hot Dog Grill comes with a hood that is made from tempered glass.
8.
Nostalgia Retro Hot Dog Roller

It comes with a bun warmer
It has five stainless steel rollers
It comes with a capacity for eight hot dogs per batch
It comes with an adjustable temperature setting
Nostalgia makes yet another entry with this HDR8RR Hot Dog Maker. The counter-top design of this hot dog maker is supposed to help in making hot dogs even more easy. The design comes with a bun warmer at the top and a grill at the bottom. The warmer comes with a cover, and it is designed to keep your hot dogs warm to be enjoyed. Below the bun warmer is the grill. The grill comes with five stainless steel rollers that roll continually at a full three hundred and sixty degrees. Because the rollers are made of stainless steel, they do not rust easily. And, therefore, they do not put your food at risk of any contamination or poisoning. Also, the rollers allow for an even distribution of heat, and, therefore, ensure that your hot dogs are cooked evenly. You can also use it for other cooking activities such as grilling sausages for breakfast, making egg rolls, bratwursts, taquitos, and so much more. The rollers are also very easy to clean.
9.
Paragon Hot Dog Hut Steamer

It comes with a steamer
It has the capacity for two hundred hot dogs per batch
It requires two hundred and twenty volts of power
It has a temperature regulator
Next on our list is this 8020 Hot Dog Hut Steamer by Paragon. This is a seriously heavy-duty commercial size hot dog cooker. First of all, this hot dog cooker has been designed purposely for commercial use only. However, if you think that you have the number of people at home to consume up to two hundred sausages in a single batch, then you can go for this hot dog cooker. Otherwise, if you have intentions to take hot dog making to a commercial level, then do not hesitate to purchase Paragon’s 8020 Hot Dog Hut Steamer. As mentioned earlier, this hot dog maker comes with a capacity of up to two hundred hot dogs in a single batch. It also has enough room for up to forty-two buns. Its construction is made with a heavy-duty twenty gauge stainless steel. This gives it a sturdy, solid, and durable structure.
10.
Maxi-Matic Elite Cuisine Hot Dog Toaster Oven

It has the capacity for four hot dogs per batch
It is made of stainless steel
It comes with a thirty-minute timer
It has a baking tray
To round up our list, we have this Elite Cuisine EHD-051B Hot Dog Toaster oven by Maxi-Matic. This easy to use hot tog toaster comes with five stainless steel rollers with the capacity of up to four hot dogs. The rollers are easy to clean. Plus, because they are made of stainless steel, they do not rust easily. This means that your food is safe from contamination. It can also be used to toast sausages as well as making eggs. It is also equipped with a thirty minutes timer and a simple control interface. The interface comes with a heat regulator and a simple power on or off switch. Beneath the rollers is a removable drip tray that catches every oil that drips from your hot dogs. Above the rollers is a dust cover designed to keep the rollers clean during storage. Under the drip tray is a baking tray for heating your buns, bread, and even snacks. In front of the toaster is a see-through oven door to allow you to monitor your cooking project.
Best Hot Dog Cooker Buying Guide & FAQ
What is a Hot Dog Cooker?
A hot dog cooker is a simple and straightforward equipment that is used for cooking hot dogs. A hot dog cooker can either be used to grill, steam or toast a hot dog. Thus, depending on its design and function, it either requires water, or a little amount of oil to cook. Hot dog cookers come with temperature regulates that are used to control how much heat is used in cooking the hot dog. Most hot dog cookers come with stainless steel rollers on which the hot dogs are prepared. The rollers are usually made of stainless steel that rotates at an angle of three hundred and sixty degrees to ensure that the hot dogs are evenly cooked. Also, hot dog cookers come with different capacities. Some brands can hold as many as two hundred hot dogs while other brands can hold as little as two hot dogs. Hot dog cookers also come in different sizes and designs to suit different specific purposes. For example, some hot dog cookers come with bun holders. Other hot dog cookers are also multi-purpose in function.
Features To Consider When Buying A Hot Dog Cooker
There are a few things to take into consideration before deciding on what is the best hot dog cooker for you.
- Capacity: As mentioned earlier, hot dog cookers come with different capacities. There are small size hot dog cookers that are designed for private home use. These types can hold not more than four regular-size hot dogs. There are also hot dog cookers designed for commercial or large gatherings. These cookers can hold from fifteen to two hundred hot dogs. There are medium-size hot dog cookers that can hold from five to fourteen hot dogs.
- Features: Hot dog cookers come with different useful features such as temperature regulators, a pair of tongs, covers, drip trays, bake trays, cool-touch handles, bun holders, and bun heaters. Be sure to choose the one with the features that will suit you the most.
- Type: There are different types of hot dog cookers. First, there are steamers that require the use of steam from hot water to cook the hot dogs. Then, there are grills and, finally, toasters that make use of stainless steel rollers.
- Warranty And Price: Another thing to consider is the price of the equipment you can afford and the warranties it comes with.
How To Clean A Hot Dog Cooker
The best way to clean a hot dog cooker depends on the design and type of cooker you are using.
- Roller Grills: First, unplug your cooker after use and allow it to cool before trying to clean it. Next, remove any remaining hot dog or pieces from the rollers. Then, dampen a soft cloth with a mixture of soap and hot water. Remove the drip pan and other accessories and clean them thoroughly with the damp cloth. Also, clean the outside of the cooker thoroughly with the damp cloth. When it comes to stainless steel surfaces, simply wipe them with a soft cloth and a cleaner made for stainless steel. Then allow them to dry before reassembling the parts.
- Steamers: Turn off the cooker and remove any remaining hot dog and buns. Next, drain the water from the cooker. Once done, remove the removable parts and wipe them clean with a dry towel. Then finally, reinsert the removable parts.
Best Hot Dog Cooker FAQ:
Q: How Long Do Hot Dogs Take On A Roller?
A: Usually, the answer to this question depends on two things. The first thing is the makeup of the hot dog. The ingredients a hot dog is made with will affect how long it will stay on a roller. The second thing is the size. Small hot dogs take lesser time to cook than the bigger ones. However, typically, hot dogs no matter the ingredients they are made with or their sizes, should take from fifteen to twenty minutes to cook.
Q: How Hot Should A Hot Dog Be?
A: Cold hot dogs can carry food-borne illnesses such as listeriosis. Thus, it is important to always eat your hot dogs hot. When a hot is heated until it is steaming hot, it helps to kill off the food-borne illnesses. Immediately the hot dog is cooked or heated, it should be kept hot at a temperature of 140 degrees fahrenheit to keep it safe to eat. Most bacteria cannot multiply at this temperature. If you are serving the hot dogs at room temperature, then they should be eaten within two hours at most.
Our Top Pick
We have reviewed the ten best hot dog cookers you can find on the market. But the Nostalgia HDT 600 RETRORED Retro Pop-Up Two Hot Dog And Bun Toaster is our top pick. Here is a quick recap to tell you why. It comes in a retro red color and design. It has an easy-to-use control panel that comes with a dial, an adjustable cooking timer, and a stop button. It has the capacity to hold two regular size hot dogs and extra space for a bigger size hot dog. Also, it comes with a pop-up toaster, a small size pair of tongs, and a removable cage.
Sources:
- How to Cook a Hot Dog When You Don’t Have a Grill - The Daily Meal