We ate a whole lot of hot dogs—more than 60 kinds, in fact—to find the best for your grilling needs. These were the clear wieners (sorry).
Best Bun Length: Ball Park Bun Size Angus Beef Franks
This classic, all-American dog will star at any backyard barbecue. The crackly skin gives way to a juicy, beefy center—transporting you to a sunny day at the ballpark. It fits snugly into its bun, so every bite boasts the perfect bread-to-hot-dog ratio.
To buy: $5.50 for 14 oz.; ballparkbrand.com.
Best Turkey: Oscar Mayer Natural Turkey Franks
These brand new, uncured turkey dogs (no added nitrates or nitrites) gave the beefy competitors a run for their money.
To buy: $3.40 for 16 oz.; target.com.
Best Veggie: Yves Jumbo Veggie Dogs
Sixty percent larger than the brand’s original dog, this vegan variety is supremely satisfying for vegetarians and meat eaters alike. Its flavor is surprisingly authentic.
To buy: $56 for 13.5 oz. (4 pack); amazon.com.
Best Beef: Niman Ranch Fearless Franks Uncured Beef Hot Dogs
Made with 100 percent choice Angus beef, these premium hickory-smoked franks are seasoned with paprika, mustard, and garlic for robust flavor in every bite.
To buy: $7 for 11 oz.; nimanranch.com.
Best Pork: Olympia Provisions Pork Frankfurters
If you prefer hang-off-the-bun hot dogs with great snap, look no further than these foot-long pork frankfurters from the popular Portland, Oregon-based charcutier.
To buy: $12 for 12 oz.; olympiaprovisions.com.
Best Pork and Beef: Coleman Natural Pork & Beef Uncured Hot Dogs
Deliciously plump, with quintessential hot dog flavor, these are the ideal blank canvas for all your favorite fixings.
To buy: $5 for 12 oz.; colemannatural.com.
.){kind=link}
.){kind=link}
.){kind=link}
.){kind=link}
.){kind=link}
.){kind=link}