July 4 means family, cookouts, and… leftovers. Lots of leftovers.
Leading up to Independence Day, how to grill hamburgers, beef hot dogs and salmon were among the most searched Google keywords. Yet, in the days that follow, that extra food often goes to waste because, according to one survey, two in five Americans don’t like leftovers.
There’s an easy solution: Repurpose leftovers into a new and pleasing meal. It’s easier than you think; here are 10 ways you can revive cookout leftovers.
Hot dogs
Admittedly, hot dogs are easy; all you need to do is gently reheat them and put them in a fresh bun — but you don’t have to stick with the status quo. Instead, try this:
Hot dogs and baked beans: Baked beans always gain more flavor with a sausage of some type. Polish and Italian sausages are great, and so are brats. However, hot dogs make baked beans just as tasty. Yes, canned baked beans are easy, but take them to the next level by taking a minute to make your own. You can find easy baked bean recipes like this one, or take pinto beans and add your favorite BBQ sauce. Slice up the hot dogs and bake with the beans. If you like heat, add some jalapenos or your favorite hot sauce. Serve with any extra bread.
Cheesy croissant hot dogs: This recipe, riffing on the classic “pigs in a blanket,” is as easy as it gets. Get a can of croissant dough, which, when unrolled, separates into eight portions. Take one piece of the dough and sprinkle it with your favorite cheese. Then, wrap the hot dog in the dough. Some 15 minutes later, you’ll have a delicious hot dog wrapped in a nicely browned and flakey crust. Dip in spicy brown mustard, ketchup, or your favorite sauce.
Grilled Cheese Dogs: Yes, really. It’s a marriage between a crispy, delicious grilled cheese and a hot dog. Assemble the grilled cheese as you normally would. Slice the hot dog lengthwise and then widthwise, giving you four pieces. Add the hot dog to the…
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