Save Big With TikTok’s Budget-Friendly Hot Dog Burnt Ends — No Smoker Needed!

I love a good BBQ, but who knew hot dogs could be transformed into something so amazing? The viral smoked hot dog burnt ends from TikTok are a budget-friendly twist on classic burnt ends that are simply delicious. You don’t even need to check the internal temp or own a smoker—your oven does all the work. Plus, I’ll share tips on recreating that smoky caramelization and which spices to use. Get ready to get creative this BBQ season at home—here’s how to make hot dog burnt ends.

What are the viral smoked hot dog burnt ends?

If you love hot dogs and burnt ends on their own, you’ll love this smoky, salty fusion. This TikTok recipe transforms simple hot dogs into smoky, caramelized bites of goodness. Traditional burnt ends come from the fatty, flavorful “points” of smoked brisket, but hot dog burnt ends capture the essence with a fraction of the effort and cost. The hot dogs are sliced into chunks, seasoned generously and smoked until crispy. Watch the original video below:

Love the original? Make our 5-ingredient recipe for Burnt Ends .

How to cook your hot dog burnt ends perfectly in the oven

No smoker? No problem! You can still achieve delicious, smoky results using your oven. Here are some key tips:

1. Preheat and prepare

Preheat your oven on a lower temperature so the hot dogs don’t overcook. For easy clean up, line your baking sheet with aluminum foil.

2. Season well

Just like with the smoker method, coat your hot dog pieces generously with a BBQ rub or your favorite seasoning mix. I recommend using smoked paprika for that instant smokey flavor.

3. Bake low and slow

Bake the hot dog burnt ends for about an hour and half to two hours. This low and slow cooking method will help mimic the smoking process.

4. Finish with BBQ sauce

Remove the hot dog pieces from the oven, toss them in your favorite BBQ sauce (I also love using brown sugar and butter), and return them to a higher temperature. This will help caramelize the sauce.

Want to use your grill? Learn How to Grill Hot Dogs .

Easy hot dog burnt ends recipe

I followed the original smoker recipe by TikTok user @thebkydpalate using my oven and they were a hit as a party appetizer with toothpicks. As the caption says, it’s the “the best bite of BBQ on a budget.”

Ingredients:

• 16-ct hot dogs, 100% beef
• BBQ seasoning of choice
• 4 Tbs. butter
• ¼ cup dark brown sugar
• Mustard (to bind seasoning)

Directions:

• Total Time: 110 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings

1. Preheat the oven to 250°F. Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and set aside. Optionally, place a wire rack on top for even cooking.
2. Score the hot dogs to maximize smoke coverage, then slather on mustard and season liberally. Place them on the baking sheet/rack and cook for 1.5-2 hours.
3. Cut the hot dogs into thirds and place into a cast iron skillet. Throw in butter, brown sugar and BBQ sauce, mix, then put the skillet back in and bake at 350°F for 20-30 minutes more, until caramelized.
4. Remove and let sit for about 10 minutes before enjoying.

Storing instructions

Leftover hot dog burnt ends can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three to four days.

More easy BBQ recipes to make with your oven:

Save Money With This St. Louis Ribs Recipe — It’s the Ultimate Fall-Off-the-Bone BBQ Main

Easy Oven-Baked Baby Back Ribs Recipe Cooks Up Fall-of-the-Bone Tender

Reverse-Searing Is the Secret to Restaurant-Quality Steak at Home: Easy Oven Recipe