With its different types of corn dogs, hot dogs stuffed into a stick of cornbread batter and deep-fried, the traditional corn dog has delighted and disgusted people since street vendors invented it at the Iowa State Fair in 1939.
Corn dogs are a food that divides us; you either love or hate them. However, if you’re on the fence about them, you should take some time to read this article because there are corn dogs out there that would make your tastebuds jump for joy.
Here are ten types of corn dogs you’ve never tried before but definitely should!
1. Polish Sausage Dog
Polish sausage is served in its bun, similar to a hot dog. A traditional Polish sausage comes with mustard, ketchup, and onions as standard toppings.
In other words, If you’re feeling experimental, there are plenty of tasty Polish sausages to try.
Try an all-beef polish with cucumber slices and coleslaw for a fresh take on a classic hot dog flavor combo.
Make sure you have napkins handy while trying out different corn dogs. Want some more variations on Polish sausages?
2. Mango Chili Dog
Mango chili sauce can be hard to find but is worth online research. This take on different corn dogs may be too spicy for some.
But we think anyone who enjoys exotic flavors will appreciate it. Warning: use gloves when cutting mango! If you can’t find mango chili sauce in your local grocery store.
Nevertheless, you can substitute 1 cup of mango chutney with two tablespoons of sriracha. For a unique flair, try topping with chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced mangos.
But make sure to buy only organic mangoes—the skins contain potentially toxic chemicals that aren’t safe for cooking or eating!
3. Corn Dog on a Stick
At its most basic, a corn dog is a stick of different types of corn dogs. (Usually) coated in a crusty batter and then deep-fried; the main variations come with what’s on that stick, which may be covered in chili, smothered in cheese, or dipped in a savory sauce.
With this in mind, don’t forget all those toppings! Hmmm, toppings, so many toppings. There are also plenty of non-traditional takes on the different types of corn dogs, including classic corn dogs and some vegetarian options for folks who love dogs but not meat.
4. Coney Island Hot Dog
This one is right with New York City’s most famous street food. The Coney Island Hot Dog consists of different types of corn dogs. Hot dog nestled in a warm bun topped with chili, mustard, and chopped onion.
Although you may find them at county fairs or carnivals all over America, no place does them better than Coney Island in New York City. Just walk down Surf Avenue until you smell that unmistakable aroma!
5. Smoked Bratwurst on a Stick
Wisconsin is famous for its cheese, and that adoration bleeds over into its love for sausages. So, it’s no surprise that bratwurst is considered a staple food in Wisconsin. You should know about two types of corn dogs: regular bratwurst and smoked bratwurst.
However, The smoked version was created during World War II because people sought ways to preserve meat without refrigeration. By smoking it, they could make it last longer without spoiling.
Nowadays, you can find them at fairs or at restaurants like Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, where they are topped with cheese curds and French fries!
7. Italian Hot Dog
This is one unconventional take on a classic American treat, but it’s also precisely what you think—a combination of Italian sausage, corn dogs, and hot dogs.
The result looks a little like a giant sausage. We suggest staying away from these if you’re only into traditional corn dogs.
Nonetheless, if you’re open to trying something new, give them a try—maybe you’ll be surprised. Popular street food in Italy has recently quickly spread throughout Europe and elsewhere.
Each shop or stand will have its take on what goes into its Italian hot dog. Some are made with just sausages; others use different types of bread, sauces, or other toppings.
8. Bacon Cheddar Jalapeño Corn Dogs
We’re looking at a variety infused with bacon and cheddar to kick off our list. Jalapeño adds a nice kick to each bite. Combined with cheddar, you’ll wish you had a dozen more—or maybe even five more.
These different types of corn dogs are covered in all-beef hot dog meat. The green chili on top creates a sweet flavor while making it savory. Overall, it’s super tasty and rich but not too spicy.
9. Wheat Corn Dogs
These are a newer take on a classic American snack. The main difference is that they’re made with wheat flour instead of regular flour, which makes them more nutritious and helps with digestion.
These dogs are also much lower in fat than traditional corn dogs because they’re made without batter or frying. Nevertheless, you can eat half as many corn dogs and still get a good amount of calories.
If you find yourself missing fried corn dogs, try to make them at home—it’s surprisingly easy. They don’t taste exactly like their commercial counterparts, but they’re pretty good anyway.
Also, our Best Bites recipe is almost identical to what you’ll get from your local street vendor. Great for kids’ parties or just snacking by yourself.
10. Bacon Batter Corn Dogs with Special Sauce
These are like your normal corn dogs, but you dip them in a batter made with bacon and maple syrup. If there’s anything better than a regular old corn dog, it’s one dipped in bacon.
If there’s anything better than that, it’s one dipped in maple syrup bacon batter with different types of corn dogs.
This is a good option for anyone who wants to stick with tradition while making things memorable. It also makes you feel like you’re eating breakfast for dinner—because why not?
11. Mini Corn Dogs
If you’re looking for a new twist on an old favorite, try mini corn dogs of different types of corn dogs. They’re bite-sized pieces of hot dog dipped in cornbread batter and fried up like little dumplings.
Mini corn dogs are perfect as an appetizer or a side dish with your other favorite game-day foods. To make them even tastier, try dipping them in sweet chili sauce, sour cream, or salsa verde before popping them into your mouth.
Nevertheless, do all three! These tasty treats are also gluten-free. Since they’re smaller than traditional corn dogs, you can have more than one and still be satisfied without adding extra toppings like ketchup or mustard.
12. Beer-Battered Veggie Corn Dogs
Deep-frying homemade different types of corn dogs is dangerous, but beer-battered ones work great as an alternative.
Just grab a can of your favorite craft beer and ensure you have some fresh veggies. Cut up bell peppers, carrots, and jalapenos into bite-sized pieces.
Above all, create a batter recipe—mix 3 cups flour with two teaspoons salt and one teaspoon pepper in a large bowl.
Once mixed, stir 1 cup of ice water with one tablespoon of baking powder (optional). Bring it all together by adding about 4 ounces of beer to make it better.
13. Shrimp Corn Dogs with Blueberry Sauce
This healthier version of an old-school favorite is made with 100% ground shrimp and sweet, juicy blueberries. The result is a lighter corn dog that is as flavorful as your favorite ballpark snack.
Moreover, kids love these tasty treats from different types of corn dogs, and so will you. Regarding seafood, we always opt for wild-caught whenever possible—it’s fresher and better for you.
Although, it’s also more sustainable. These are best served hot, right out of the fryer. Serve them with a side of homemade blueberry sauce or ketchup. Enjoy!
14. Mini Cheese Corn Dogs
Miniature corn dogs make a great appetizer at parties or a snack on movie night. They’re also quick and easy to prepare and require few ingredients—ideally, if you don’t have much time or energy after work to make these different types of corn dogs!
Similarly, try adding a healthy twist using low-fat crescent rolls instead of traditional hot dog buns. If you want more flavor, you can use Italian spices instead of just salt.
Finally, skip using processed cheese. Instead, add your favorite shredded cheese to give these mini corn dogs an even richer taste that guests will love.
15. Gluten-Free Corn Dogs
Whether you have a gluten allergy or intolerance, you’re just trying to eat healthier. It’s pretty easy to substitute different types of corn dogs with a gluten-free version.
This recipe is excellent for people who love eating fried food because it’s straightforward. Also, unlike conventional deep-fried foods, these hot dogs contain no trans fats.
Corn dog lovers will enjoy biting into one without feeling guilty about their waistline. When making both recipes, substitute vegan margarine for butter.
Nonetheless, don’t forget about your choice of cooking oil (or coatings). Dairy-free butter and vegan mayonnaise can be swapped for fat like coconut or canola oil instead of lard or shortening.
16. Mini Jalapeño Corn Dogs
These spicy treats offer all of the flavors without most of the fat. The creamy bite of jalapeño in different types of corn dogs has just as much impact.
But with fewer calories and grams of fat. Serve these up at your next party and see who can guess their true identity.
These different mini types of corn dogs will fly off your plate, so have lots on hand. They’re also a great dish on picnics or road trips. Because they don’t get soggy, they’ll keep longer in coolers than fried versions.
Also, if you want to spice things up even more, try adding some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes when blending your cheese sauce.
