Cheese Dogs: Keto-Friendly Or Carb-Loaded Traps?

The ketogenic diet has become increasingly popular in recent years, and it's not just a fad. A keto diet consists of very low carbohydrates, high fat, and moderate protein levels. This means that many foods are off the menu, but some favourites can be adapted to fit the keto diet, such as the classic chilli cheese dog.

Keto-friendly dough for the bun

A keto-friendly dough for hot dog buns can be made using a variation of the popular fathead dough recipe. This dough is typically used for pizza, but with some adjustments, it can be the perfect dough for keto buns.

The ingredients for the dough are:

• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Cream cheese
• Eggs
• Almond flour
• Baking powder
• Sesame seeds (optional)

To make the dough, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and cream cheese. Microwave in short intervals until the cheeses are mostly melted, then whisk them together until smooth. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.

Transfer the warm cheese mixture to a food processor. Add the dry ingredients: almond flour and baking powder. Also, add in the eggs and pulse until a thick dough forms.

Lightly dust a kitchen surface with almond flour and transfer the dough onto it. Using slightly wet hands, knead the dough several times until it becomes smooth. Divide the dough into portions, depending on the desired size of your buns. Roll each portion into a ball and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Flatten the balls slightly and shape them into bun shapes.

Brush the tops of the buns with a beaten egg to give them a golden-brown colour and help keep the sesame seeds in place. Sprinkle the sesame seeds on top.

Bake the buns in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes before slicing them in half.

These keto-friendly buns are a perfect option for those following a ketogenic diet, allowing you to enjoy your favourite hot dogs without compromising your dietary preferences.

Sugar-free hot dogs

Wellshire Farms, for example, offers sugar-free uncured beef franks that are also free of antibiotics, growth hormones, preservatives, and synthetic nitrates and nitrites. They are gluten-free, minimally processed, and contain 7 grams of protein per serving. Pederson's Farms also offers a similar product with no sugar added and uses 100% grass-fed beef.

When it comes to preparing sugar-free hot dogs, there are various recipes available. For a keto-friendly option, you can make a keto chili cheese dog by using sugar-free hot dogs, shredded or grated cheese, and a fathead dough bun. Simply cook the hot dogs on the stovetop or in the microwave and serve them in the dough bun with chili and melted cheese.

If you're looking for a more substantial meal, you can try a keto chili cheese dog casserole. This recipe includes ground beef, hot dogs, cheese, and a tomato-based sauce, all baked together in a casserole dish. It's a filling and tasty option that's perfect for introducing your family to a low-carb, high-fat lifestyle.

Keto-friendly toppings

When it comes to keto-friendly toppings for your cheese dog, there are several options to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Cheese: Of course, cheese is a must for any cheese dog, and shredded or grated cheese is the perfect topping. You can use cheddar cheese or any other variety that you prefer.
• Chilli: Adding some keto-friendly chilli to your cheese dog can give it a nice kick. Just make sure to use a recipe that doesn't include beans or added sugars.
• Vegetables: You can add some texture and flavour to your cheese dog with various vegetables. Try sliced avocado, black olive slices, diced onions, or even some keto-friendly coleslaw.
• Sour cream: A dollop of sour cream can add a nice tang to your cheese dog. Just make sure to choose a full-fat variety to keep it keto-friendly.
• Pickles, mustard, and sauerkraut: These classic hot dog toppings are all keto-friendly and can add a nice crunch and flavour to your cheese dog.
• Low-carb tortillas: If you're looking for something to wrap your cheese dog in, you can use low-carb tortillas or specialty low-carb buns.
• Keto-friendly condiments: When it comes to condiments, stick to those that are low in sugar and carbs. Some options include yellow mustard, low-sugar ketchup, and mayonnaise.

Feel free to mix and match these toppings to create your perfect keto cheese dog! Just remember to always check the ingredients and nutrition labels to ensure that your choices fit within your keto diet guidelines.

Nutritional information

The nutritional value of cheese dogs will vary depending on the ingredients used. For example, the type of hot dog, cheese, and toppings will all impact the nutritional content. Here is a breakdown of the nutritional information for some keto cheese dog recipes:

Keto Chili Cheese Dog Casserole

This recipe serves 10 and has the following nutritional values per serving:

• Calories: 424
• Total Fat: 34g
• Cholesterol: 89mg
• Sodium: 1097mg
• Potassium: 292mg
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 24g

Keto Chili Dog Casserole

This recipe serves 8 and has the following nutritional values per serving:

• Calories: 486
• Total Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 92mg
• Sodium: 782mg
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Net Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g
• Protein: 32g

Keto Pigs in a Blanket

This recipe serves 6 and has the following nutritional values per serving (excluding the hot dog):

• Calories: 193kcal
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Protein: 16.5g
• Fat: 9g
• Cholesterol: 30.8mg
• Sodium: 371mg
• Fiber: 1.2g
• Sugar: 2.2g

It's important to note that the nutritional information provided is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used. Additionally, the type of hot dog used will also impact the overall nutritional content of the dish. When calculating the nutritional information for a recipe, it is always best to use a recipe analyzer and input the exact brand ingredients to get the most accurate values.

Reheating and storing keto cheese dogs

If you're making keto cheese dogs with keto hot dog buns, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze them in a ziplock bag for up to two months. To reheat, microwave the buns in 20-second intervals until warm.

For keto cheese dogs with fathead dough buns, you can store the cooked hot dogs in the refrigerator for three to four days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. The fathead dough buns can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Frequently asked questions