If you’re looking for a fun, filling, and crowd-pleasing snack that combines the best parts of pizza and hot dogs, this Cheesy Pepperoni Hot Dog Boat is the perfect recipe. It’s incredibly easy to make, packed with flavor, and ideal for parties, family gatherings, movie nights, or anytime you want something warm, cheesy, and comforting. This dish delivers a mix of soft bread, juicy hot dogs, melted mozzarella, pepperoni slices, and herbs—all baked together into one delicious creation that everyone will love.
To start, choose a large, soft hot-dog bun or a long sub roll that can comfortably fit multiple hot dogs inside. This will be the “boat” that holds everything together. Slice it open just enough to create space, but make sure not to cut all the way through because you want the bread to stay sturdy while baking. Once the bun is prepared, line up your hot dogs side by side. You can use classic beef hot dogs, turkey hot dogs, or even spicy sausages depending on the flavor you prefer.
Next, prepare the cheese topping. You’ll want a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese because it melts beautifully and creates that irresistible golden bubbly layer on top. You can also mix in a handful of cheddar for extra flavor depth, or add a creamy cheese sauce if you want the dish to be richer. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the hot dogs, making sure every part is covered so you get a perfect cheesy finish.
After that, begin layering the pepperoni slices. Place the pepperoni in a row on each side of the bun or scattered across the top, depending on the look you prefer. Pepperoni adds a bold and savory kick that pairs perfectly with the hot dogs and melted cheese. You can also use turkey pepperoni or a spicy version if you want a little heat. Once the pepperoni is added, sprinkle some dried oregano, dried parsley, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning across the top to create that classic pizzeria aroma.
Your Hot Dog Boat is now ready for the oven. Bake it at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden brown. This usually takes around 10–15 minutes, but keep an eye on it so the cheese doesn’t burn. When it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a minute or two so the cheese can set slightly before slicing or serving.
This recipe is incredibly customizable. You can add sliced jalapeños for extra heat, drizzle barbecue sauce or spicy ketchup over the top before baking, or mix in caramelized onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added texture. You can also use different cheese combinations, such as provolone, Monterey Jack, or pepper Jack, for unique flavors. Kids love the classic version, while adults enjoy adding a few extra toppings to make it more gourmet.
Serving this dish is simple. Cut it into thick sections for individual servings or serve it whole for everyone to pull apart. It’s perfect with fries, potato wedges, or a fresh salad if you want a lighter side. The combination of soft bread, juicy hot dogs, melted cheese, and crispy pepperoni makes every bite satisfying. This is the type of recipe that becomes a favorite once you make it the first time because it’s fast, affordable, and fun to eat.
It also works great for gatherings because you can prepare multiple hot dog boats at once, arrange different toppings for variety, and bake them together. It’s a fantastic party food because it looks impressive yet requires very little effort. Even beginners in the kitchen can make this recipe perfectly on the first try.
This Cheesy Pepperoni Hot Dog Boat is also a perfect option for busy evenings when you want something filling but don’t feel like spending too much time in the kitchen. It’s also a great “game-day food” for watching sports with friends because it feeds several people and pairs well with cold drinks. The combination of flavors is familiar yet exciting, making it a comforting dish for all ages.
Try this recipe once, and it will definitely become part of your regular rotation. It delivers everything you love about cheesy comfort food in one simple, delicious creation. It’s flavorful, visually impressive, and always a hit at any table.
Ingredients
- 1 large hot dog bun or long sub roll
- 3–4 beef hot dogs
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Pepperoni slices
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the bun open without cutting it all the way through.
- Place the hot dogs inside the bun in a row.
- Cover the hot dogs generously with shredded mozzarella.
- Add pepperoni slices along the sides and on top.
- Sprinkle oregano, parsley, and optional garlic powder.
- Bake for 10–15 minutes or until cheese is melted and lightly golden.
- Let cool for 1–2 minutes, slice, and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with fries, pickles, dipping sauces, or a light salad. This dish is great as a snack, lunch, or shared appetizer.
Disclaimer: This story is a work of entertainment, and the image is AI-generated for illustration purposes.