Hot dogs are a classic American food, often enjoyed at backyard barbecues, baseball games, and more. What can make hot dogs even better is topping them with a warm, gooey cheese sauce. Cheese sauce takes hot dogs to the next level, adding creaminess and a delightful cheese flavor.
When shopping for cheese sauce for hot dogs, there are a few things to consider to find the ideal product. The cheese sauce should have a smooth, creamy texture and rich cheesy taste. You'll also want to think about the type of cheese used, any additional ingredients, and the recipe's spice level.
This buying guide will walk through the key factors to evaluate when purchasing the best cheese sauce for topping hot dogs. We'll also provide tips for using cheese sauce on hot dogs and answer some frequently asked questions. With this information, you'll be ready to elevate your hot dogs with a fantastic cheese sauce.
Velveeta Original Cheese Sauce Pouches
Velveeta Original Cheese Sauce Pouches offer a convenient way to add rich, creamy cheese flavor to recipes. The pouches contain the same iconic Velveeta cheese sauce found in the brand's Shells & Cheese boxes. Squeeze the sauce from the pouches to quickly prepare dips, macaroni and cheese, nachos, pasta dishes, and more.
This shelf-stable cheese sauce requires no refrigeration before opening. The resealable pouches maintain freshness after use. Their portable size makes these pouches ideal for school lunches, travel, and anywhere on-the-go cheese sauce is needed. Made with real milk, Velveeta cheese sauce delivers a smooth, melty texture and consistency.
Key features:
- Convenient resealable pouches
- Shelf-stable; no refrigeration required
- Real milk for smooth, creamy texture
Pros:
- Adds rich cheese flavor fast
- Portable and easy to use
- Same great taste as classic Velveeta
Cons:
- Contains milk; not suitable for vegans
- Needs refrigeration after opening pouches
- High in sodium
Ragú Double Cheddar Sauce
For a rich, cheesy flavor boost, Ragú Double Cheddar Sauce is a smart choice. This smooth, creamy sauce can turn any pasta or vegetable dish into a cheesy delight. Made with a blend of yellow and white cheddar cheese, it delivers mild, mellow flavor perfect for family meals.
Compared to basic jarred Parmesan "Alfredo" sauces, Ragú Double Cheddar offers a more authentic cheddar experience. The sauce contains no harsh chemical tastes. It provides a family-friendly flavor that even picky eaters will love.
Key features:
- Made with real yellow and white cheddar
- Mild, creamy cheddar flavor
- Smooth, pourable consistency
Pros:
- Adds lots of cheesy flavor
- Kid-friendly taste
- Works well in many recipes
Cons:
- Contains milk; not vegan
- Flavor could be sharper
- High in sodium
Velveeta Original Cheese Sauce Pouches
Satisfy cheese cravings anytime with Velveeta Original Cheese Sauce Pouches. This shelf-stable product offers the creamy, dreamy cheese sauce Velveeta is known for in an easy-to-use pouch. The rich, melty cheese sauce adds bold flavor to nachos, mac and cheese, veggie dishes, and more.
These single-serve Velveeta cheese sauce pouches require no refrigeration before opening. Their portable size makes cheesy goodness accessible anywhere. The resealable pouches lock in freshness after opening. Made with real milk, these pouches contain the same original cheese sauce that makes Velveeta a top choice.
Key features:
- Real milk for creamy, melty texture
- Famous Velveeta cheese sauce flavor
- Convenient single-serve pouches
Pros:
- Satisfies cheese cravings fast
- Easy to pack for lunches, trips
- Delivers authentic Velveeta taste
Cons:
- Contains milk; not vegan-friendly
- Needs refrigeration after opening
- High in sodium
FUNacho Nacho Cheese Sauce
For delicious movie night nachos, FUNacho Nacho Cheese Sauce is a smart choice. This shelf-stable cheese sauce captures the classic nacho cheese flavor expected at ballgames and theaters. A blend of cheese and spices like chili powder and onion, it delivers a creamy, crave-worthy taste.
Each individually packed serving of this nacho cheese sauce offers the perfect amount for nachos or topping hot dogs, fries, and more. There's no need to measure, and unused portions won't go to waste. This thick, rich sauce stays fresh without refrigeration before opening.
Key features:
- Traditional nacho cheese flavor
- Individually packaged servings
- 18-month shelf life unopened
Pros:
- Tastes like classic nacho cheese
- Easy single-serve pouches
- Long shelf life before opening
Cons:
- Contains milk; not vegan
- Needs refrigeration after opening
- High in sodium
Gehl's Sharp Cheddar Cheese Sauce
For intense, tangy cheddar flavor, Gehl's Sharp Cheddar Cheese Sauce is a concession stand favorite. This smooth, creamy cheese sauce livens up nachos, hot dogs, fries, and more. Packaged in pour-ready pouches, it offers an easier alternative to block cheese slicing.
Each bag-in-box of this sharp cheddar sauce contains four easy-pour pouches. The cheese sauce requires no refrigeration before opening. Its rich, gourmet cheddar flavor takes nachos and snacks to the next level.
Key features:
- Real Sharp Cheddar flavor
- Smooth, creamy pour-ready pouches
- No refrigeration required before opening
Pros:
- Intense tangy cheddar taste
- Easy to pour and use
- Long shelf life unopened
Cons:
- Contains milk; not vegan
- Needs refrigerating after opening
- High in sodium
TableTop King Microwavable Cheese Sauce Cups
TableTop King offers a case of microwavable cheese sauce cups that provide convenience and great flavor. With 30 cups per case, each one containing 3.8 ounces of creamy cheese sauce, these little containers can be quickly heated and used for nachos, hot dogs, baked potatoes, and more.
The cheese sauce has a smooth, creamy texture and tastes like an authentic cheddar cheese sauce. It does not have any spicy flavoring added. The cups provide the perfect size for individual servings, and the plastic lid comes off easily after microwaving.
Key features:
- 30 cups per case
- 3.8 ounces per cup
- Made with real cheddar cheese
- Microwave safe with easy-to-remove lid
Pros:
- Provides perfect portion control
- Heats quickly in the microwave
- Great flavor
Cons:
- Can explode if microwaved too long
- Large case requires storage space
Rosarita Nacho Cheese Sauce
Rosarita is known for making delicious Mexican-style foods like refried beans, salsa, and nacho cheese sauce. This bulk case contains six 106-ounce cans of creamy, cheddar-flavored cheese sauce perfect for nachos, tacos, enchiladas, or any dish needing a tasty cheese topping.
The nacho cheese sauce has a smooth, rich texture and authentic cheddar flavor with a hint of spiciness from green chilies and jalapeño peppers. Customers love the convenience of stocking up on multiple cans of this restaurant-quality cheese sauce. It can be heated on the stovetop, in the microwave, or in a heated pump dispenser.
Key features:
- Case of 6 x 106-ounce cans
- Made with real cheddar cheese
- Adds bold flavor
- Versatile uses
Pros:
- Large cans provide value
- Delicious authentic flavor
- Convenient for big gatherings
Cons:
- Cans often arrive dented
- Need storage space for large cans
Chef-mate Basic Cheddar Cheese Sauce
Chef-mate offers food service products like this cheddar cheese sauce that save on labor while providing delicious flavor. Their Basic Cheddar Cheese Sauce delivers creamy, indulgent cheese flavor from real cheddar cheese and has a smooth, reliable texture. It contains no artificial flavors.
This shelf-stable canned sauce is pre-cooked before canning to lock in cheese flavor and quality texture. Restaurants can use it as a topping for nachos, hot dogs, baked potatoes and more. Large #10 size cans with a 8-hour steam table holding time provide value for high-volume use. This easy cheese sauce tastes great on everything and provides cheesy goodness within minutes.
Key features:
- Made with real aged cheddar cheese
- Cooked before canning
- #10 size can
- 8-hour holding time
Pros:
- Provides bold cheese flavor
- Quick and convenient
- Holds well for service
Cons:
- Salty, may need to reduce added salt in recipes
- Cans can arrive dented during shipping
Mac Yourself Cheddar Cheese Sauce Mix
Mac Yourself makes an easy-to-use Cheddar Cheese Sauce Mix that lets you customize the cheesiness. One 9.3-ounce container makes a delicious cheddar sauce for eleven boxes worth of macaroni and cheese. It's also great for nachos, veggies, casseroles and more needing a boost of cheesy flavor.
This powdered cheese sauce mix offers serious convenience. Just add milk, butter and the powder to quickly prepare creamy, indulgent cheese sauce from scratch. It provides delicious flavor that reminds them of beloved boxed macaroni and cheese kits. The powder format stores easily and provides customization options.
Key features:
- Shelf-stable powder mix
- Makes 11x more than boxed kits
- Customizable cheese flavor
- Many uses
Pros:
- Very easy to make fresh cheese sauce
- Stores easily until needed
- Provides bold cheese flavor
Cons:
- May need extra powder for more flavor
- Not as cost effective as boxed kits
Chef-mate Sharp Cheddar Cheese Sauce
Indulge in bold, tangy cheddar flavor with Chef-mate Sharp Cheddar Cheese Sauce. Made with real aged cheddar cheese and no artificial flavors, this smooth, creamy cheese sauce adds zesty flavor to foods like omelets, baked potatoes, steamed veggies and more. The rich, mustard-yellow cheese sauce contains no trans fat per serving.
Chef-mate cooks their products before canning to lock in premium flavor and texture. This shelf-stable #10 sized can offers heavy-duty holding time and convenience for restaurants. A little bit of the sharp cheddar sauce goes a long way in providing cheesy flavor. It melts smoothly and makes foods like nachos taste delicious.
Key features:
- Made with real sharp cheddar cheese
- Cooked before canning
- No artificial flavors/colors
- #10 can format
Pros:
- Provides ultra-cheesy flavor
- Holds well for food service
- Convenient big can
Cons:
- Strong flavor, use smaller amounts
- Needs refrigeration after opening
Buying Guide for Cheese Sauce for Hot Dogs
When purchasing cheese sauce to put on hot dogs, there are several aspects to evaluate to select the ideal product. Here are the key factors to consider when choosing a cheese sauce for hot dogs:
Cheese Type
The first consideration when buying cheese sauce is the type of cheese used. Popular options include:
- Cheddar - Sharp cheddar provides a tangy, nutty flavor. Aged cheddar offers a richer taste.
- American - American cheese delivers creamy texture and mild cheese taste.
- Nacho - Nacho cheese sauce has spicy, tangy notes.
- Swiss - Swiss cheese gives the sauce a mild, smooth profile.
- Provolone - For a sharp, robust flavor.
- Asiago - Asiago imparts a robust, nutty taste.
The cheese variety significantly impacts the sauce's flavor, so choose one that aligns with your preferences. Blended cheese sauces use a mix of cheese types to balance multiple flavors.
Texture
Look for a smooth, thick, creamy texture without oil separation or a grainy consistency. The sauce should luxuriously coat the hot dog without being too thin.
Additional Ingredients
Many cheese sauces include extra ingredients beyond just cheese:
- Milk - Adds creaminess and binds the sauce. Whole milk offers richer flavor compared to low-fat milk.
- Butter - Provides smoothness and improves mouthfeel.
- Flour - Thickens the sauce so it properly clings to the hot dogs.
- Mustard - Spicy mustard contributes tangy flavor.
- Beer - Some sauces use ale or beer, which provides complexity.
- Spices - Ingredients like paprika or cayenne add heat and dimension.
Evaluate whether you want any extra ingredients or prefer a more classic cheese-forward flavor.
Spice Level
Cheese sauces range from very mild to quite spicy. If you like heat, look for ones highlighted as "zesty" or "spicy." Kid-friendly sauces tend to be milder. You can always add hot sauce or other toppings if you want more kick.
Prepared vs Homemade
You can buy pre-made cheese sauce or make your own at home. Prepared sauces offer convenience - just heat and serve. Homemade allows you to control the flavor profile and ingredients. Whichever you choose, look for quality ingredients without artificial additives.
Brands
Popular brand names for cheese sauce include Cheez Whiz, Ragu, and Frito-Lay. You can also find gourmet, artisanal cheese sauce brands at specialty food stores or online. Checking reviews can help determine the most flavorful, high-quality prepared cheese sauces.
Label Claims
Scan the label when comparing products. Terms like "premium," "natural," "aged," or "small batch" indicate higher quality ingredients. "Fat-free" or "light" means compromised texture. Look for sauces promoted as perfect for hot dogs.
Price
Cheese sauce prices vary based on the ingredients, brand, where it's sold, and if it's mass-produced or specialty. High-end gourmet cheese sauces cost more. Remember that better ingredients usually mean a higher price tag.
Storage
Once opened, cheese sauce lasts 4-5 days refrigerated. Discard if mold develops. For prepared sauces, follow package instructions for microwave reheating.
Tips for Using Cheese Sauce on Hot Dogs
Once you've selected an appetizing cheese sauce, here are some tips for incorporating it into your hot dogs:
- Warm the cheese sauce before pouring over hot dogs so it gets thick and creamy.
- Heat the hot dogs first before topping with cheese sauce for best results. The sauce sticks nicely to warm dogs.
- Add cheese sauce on top of the hot dogs in a container, then mix gently to evenly coat. You can also drizzle it over served hot dogs.
- For a cheesy explosion of flavor, fill a hollowed hot dog with cheese sauce before eating.
- Sprinkle crispy bacon bits or chopped chives on top of the cheese sauce for extra flavor and crunch.
- Let guests customize their dogs by providing cups of different cheese sauce toppings and garnishes.
- Cheese sauce pairs well with spicy mustard, ketchup, sauerkraut, chili, and other favorite hot dog toppings.
- Use leftover cheese sauce to make quesadillas, mac and cheese, nachos, or broccoli and cheese soup.
With so many tasty cheese sauce options, your hot dogs are sure to get a flavor boost. The ideal cheese sauce takes these savory classics to new cheesy heights. Follow the buying guide when shopping and the usage tips for incorporating it onto your hot dogs.
FAQ
What's the best cheese to use for hot dog cheese sauce?
For hot dogs, go for a smooth, mild cheese sauce. Good options include American, cheddar, Swiss, or provolone. Nacho cheese sauce also pairs well with hot dogs for a spicy twist. Avoid pungent cheeses like blue or gouda in hot dog cheese sauce.
Is it better to use commercial or homemade cheese sauce?
It depends on your needs. Prepared cheese sauce offers convenience while homemade allows you to control the taste. For the simplest option, look for quality prepared sauces made with natural ingredients. But homemade can be tailored to your flavor preferences.
What ingredients make the best hot dog cheese sauce?
Simple is often best - just high-quality real cheese, milk, butter, and seasonings like mustard, paprika, or cayenne pepper. Avoid cheese sauces with artificial additives. High-fat dairy provides the creamiest, richest sauce.
How do I reheat cheese sauce for hot dogs?
Prepared cheese sauces can be reheated gently in the microwave, stirring periodically. Follow package instructions. For homemade sauces, reheat slowly in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly. Add milk or cream if it seems too thick. Do not let the cheese sauce boil or scorch.
Can I freeze extra homemade cheese sauce for hot dogs?
Yes, homemade cheese sauce freezes well for later use. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave. The thawed sauce may need extra milk or cream stirred in to regain ideal consistency.
Conclusion
Cheese sauce can seriously upgrade your hot dog experience, adding creamy, cheesy richness that takes these sandwiches over the top. Use this guide when shopping for the perfect cheese sauce to pair with hot dogs. Consider factors like cheese variety, texture, added ingredients, and spice level to find your favorite. Prepared sauces offer convenience while homemade lets you customize the flavor. Use the cooking tips to evenly coat the hot dogs for cheese-dripping goodness. With so many tasty cheese sauce options, your hot dogs will never have to go naked again.
Resources
- Delish Link: This recipe from Delish offers a unique twist on the classic hot dog by adding fried cheese to the mix. The recipe includes step-by-step instructions and a list of ingredients.
- The Suburban Soapbox Link: This resource provides a recipe for hot dog chili sauce that is perfect for topping your hot dogs. The recipe includes a list of ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
- Delish Link: This recipe from Delish offers another unique twist on the classic hot dog by adding grilled cheese to the mix. The recipe includes step-by-step instructions and a list of ingredients.
- Allrecipes Link: This recipe for Grandpa's Classic Coney Sauce from Allrecipes is a tangy and flavorful sauce that is perfect for topping your hot dogs. The recipe includes a list of ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
- Allrecipes Link: This recipe for Jeff's Hot Dog Chili from Allrecipes is a quick and easy recipe that is perfect for topping your hot dogs. The recipe includes a list of ingredients and step-by-step instructions.