Hot Dog Nuggets That Kids (and Grown-Ups) Can’t Stop Eating

These hot dog nuggets are golden, crispy, and wrapped in buttery dough — the kind of snack you can’t help but grab another of. Whether you’re feeding a pack of hungry kids or setting out appetizers for game day, these bite-sized beauties disappear fast.

Where This Recipe Comes From

Some recipes just hit different. This one? It’s pure childhood nostalgia. It started with a leftover pack of hot dogs and a roll of crescent dough that was begging to be used. A quick slice, a little wrap, and 10 minutes later, the kitchen smelled like buttery heaven. The whole tray vanished before dinner even started.

Why It Matters to Me

You know that feeling when everyone’s happy at the table? These nuggets do that. They’re fast, fun, and picky-eater approved. Even the teens sneak extra from the pan. And when guests pop by? Boom. Instant snack.

What Makes These Hot Dog Nuggets Work

• Only 2 ingredients (yes, really!)
• Golden, buttery outside + warm, savory center
• Quick to prep, fast to bake, even faster to eat

Optional Upgrades & Swaps

• Add a mini slice of cheddar inside the hot dog piece
• Swap crescent dough for puff pastry or pizza dough
• Use mini smokies for an extra punch of flavor

The Step-by-Step Magic

Start by heating your oven to 400°F. Grab 5 regular hot dogs and slice them into half-inch chunks. Unroll your crescent dough and pinch those seams together like you’re patching a cozy dough quilt. Now cut the dough into 64 tiny rectangles — think 1.5 by 0.5 inches.

Wrap each hot dog bite with a little dough blanket. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 8–9 minutes, until the tops are golden and irresistible. Serve warm. Watch them vanish.

Air Fryer Tip: No preheating needed! Pop a batch into a parchment-lined basket at 325°F. Cook for 3–4 minutes, flip, then another 3–4 minutes until golden.

When I Love to Serve These

• Birthday parties (kids + grown-ups love them)
• Game night with a big bowl of dipping sauces
• After-school snack attack
• Quick dinner with a salad on the side

They’re also a hit next to these BBQ Sausage Bites or our go-to Buffalo Chicken Dip.

Tips & Tricks I Swear By

• Serving size: 4–6 per kid, 6–10 per adult
• Keep warm in a crockpot with a paper towel on bottom
• Make ahead: prep and refrigerate a few hours in advance
• To freeze: bake, cool, then flash freeze. Reheat at 400°F for 10 mins

FAQ

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