New Jersey Grilled Italian-Style Hot Dogs

Introduction

This New Jersey Grilled Italian-Style Hot Dogs recipe brings together juicy all-beef hot dogs, crispy potatoes, sautéed peppers, and onions—straight off the Arteflame grill. By using the Arteflame’s ultra-hot center grate to sear and its wide flat cooktop to finish off ingredients, every bite delivers deep flavor, texture, and that unbeatable char you can only get from the open flame. This grill-friendly version of the classic NJ dog is easy, fast, and loaded with flavor—no pots, pans or ovens needed!

Ingredients

• 6 all-beef hot dogs
• 6 Italian sub rolls
• 3 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: spicy mustard, pickled jalapeños, chopped parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Get the Arteflame grill ready for grilling

1. Place 3 paper napkins in the grill bowl and pour a bit of vegetable oil over them.
2. Stack firewood on top of the napkins.
3. Light the napkins to ignite the fire.
4. Wait for about 20 minutes until the grill is hot and the cooktop is seasoned and ready to sizzle.

Step 2: Prepare the vegetables and potatoes

1. Spread butter across the flat cooktop surface, closer to the center for higher heat.
2. Add sliced onions and peppers. Season with salt and pepper. Grill until softened and caramelized, moving them toward the edge if cooking too fast.
3. Place sliced potatoes on the buttered surface. Grill until golden and crisp on both sides, flipping occasionally. Keep them near the center for crispiness.

Step 3: Grill the hot dogs

1. Place the hot dogs on the center grill grate for an intense sear.
2. Sear the hot dogs for 30-60 seconds, rolling slightly for even browning.
3. Move hot dogs to the flat cooktop to reverse sear them, allowing the interior to finish cooking gently without bursting the casings.

Step 4: Warm the rolls

1. Split the Italian rolls and place them cut-side down on the outer edge of the cooktop.
2. Toast for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden and warm.

Step 5: Assemble your New Jersey-style dogs

1. Place a hot dog in each roll.
2. Top with a generous helping of grilled potatoes, onions, and peppers.
3. Add any optional toppings like spicy mustard or chopped parsley.

Tips

• Use butter, not oil, on the cooktop for richer flavor and better searing performance.
• Potatoes cook best when cut thin and spread in a single layer.
• Move ingredients to cooler zones as needed to avoid overcooking.
• Remove hot dogs when they are 15°F below the desired doneness. They’ll continue to cook after being removed from the grill.
• Use wood chunks for added smoky flavor.

Variations

1. Spicy Italian Dog: Add grilled hot cherry peppers and finish with a drizzle of Calabrian chili oil for extra heat.
2. Cheesy Dog: Snake slices of provolone on the cooktop until melted and lay over cooked hot dogs before serving.
3. Sweet & Savory Dog: Use sweet Vidalia onions and add a splash of balsamic glaze at the end of cooking.
4. Jersey Pork Roll Dog: Add seared slices of pork roll between the hot dog and the toppings for a real Jersey twist.
5. Mediterranean Dog: Top with grilled eggplant slices, tzatziki, and crumbled feta for a Greek-inspired version.

Best pairings

• Cold root beer or classic cola
• Grilled corn on the cob with herb butter
• Pickle spears or pickled vegetables for tangy balance
• Potato salad or coleslaw for creamy contrast
• Salt and vinegar kettle chips for crunch

Conclusion

Grilling up New Jersey Italian-Style Hot Dogs on the Arteflame delivers street food taste and gourmet quality right in your backyard. With no pots or pans, the Arteflame makes this classic completely outdoor-friendly, and its unique heat zones ensure that every ingredient comes out perfectly cooked. Have fun trying all the variations for the ultimate backyard dog!