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Cheesy Pizza Hot Dogs

Print Recipe
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8 lean hot dogs turkey, chicken, or lean beef
  • 1 pound whole-wheat pizza dough store-bought or homemade
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce thick, not watery
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella part-skim for lighter; whole milk for extra melt
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan optional but recommended
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing
  • 1 egg, beaten optional egg wash for shine
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes optional kick
  • Flaky salt or garlic salt optional finish
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish optional but fancy

Method
 

  1. Heat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment. Lightly flour your work surface.
  2. Roll the whole-wheat dough into a large rectangle, about 12×14 inches. Cut into 8 equal strips.
  3. Pat the hot dogs dry with a paper towel. This keeps the dough from slipping and helps the crust crisp.
  4. Spread a thin stripe of marinara on each dough strip—think 1 teaspoon per strip, not a ladle. Sprinkle mozzarella and a bit of Parmesan over the sauce. Add Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like heat.
  5. Place one hot dog at the end of each strip and roll it up snugly. Pinch the seam and ends closed to prevent leaks.
  6. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet. Brush with olive oil or egg wash. Sprinkle a little garlic salt or flaky salt on top if desired.
  7. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the dough is puffed and golden and cheese peeks are bubbling. Rotate the pan halfway for even browning.
  8. Let rest 3 minutes. Drizzle or brush a touch more warm marinara over the tops, add a sprinkle of Parmesan, and finish with chopped basil or parsley. Serve with extra marinara for dipping.