It’s hot and it’s time to cook some hot dogs on the grill!

All beef hot dogs are an All-American treat and now’s the time to try out some new hot dog recipes.

So how do you make a hot dog stand out?

Why, hot dog toppings, of course!

How do you spruce up a hot dog with toppings?

First, there are the go-to toppings like sauerkraut, chili, cheese, chili cheese, relish, ketchup, mustard and the like.

But how about some unusual toppings like bacon or corn chips or chocolate sauce?

Yes, chocolate sauce!

Anchovies, pineapple and chicken are other noteworthy toppings that just might make you smile.

Or how about sausage, ground beef, barbecue sauce or crushed tortilla chips?

Hey, I didn’t say they were going to be gourmet items, did I?

Vegetables are a good option to try to bring some crunch into the mix. Try cucumbers, shaved carrots or shredded lettuce for some variety.

What are some hot dog toppings YOU might try? Let me know!

We beef lovers have so many choices when it comes to main courses. And it’s so fun to be able to explore all those options.

This is my list of 15 ways you can BEEF up the new year in style:

1. Applewood Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignon
2. Tenderloin Medallions
3. Chateaubriand
4. Flat Iron Rubbed Steak
5. Steakburgers!
6. Peppercorn and Sea Salt Kansas City Strips
7. Flank Steak in Sweet BBQ Sauce
8. Beef Brisket
9. Caramelized Onion and Gorgonzola Sliders
10. All Beef Hot Dogs
11. Wagyu Kobe Beef
12. Garlic and Herb Prime Rib Roast
13. BBQ Beef Burnt Ends
14. Porterhouse Steak
15. USDA Prime Bone-In Ribeye Steak

So many choices … and only a year to get through them.

Now go get some beef and start working on this list. This’ll be fun!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.

I like meal ideas that are quick, but don’t cut corners. These full meal pairings help to get the dinner on the table fast without sacrificing quality and flavor. Plus, they’re not the same old same old.

Try ‘em in the new year!

1. 3 Cheese Arancini (can be an appetizer or a side), Chicken Spiedini and Lemon Coconut Cake.
2. Crabcakes, Filet Mignon and Red Velvet Cake.
3. Lobster Flatbread, Veal Cutlets and Hand-Dipped Chocolate Macaroons.

Want more full meal ideas? Create your own customized meals here!

Happy (tasty) New Year!

Photo courtesy of KansasCitySteaks.com.