There is truly something nostalgically delightful about biting into a perfectly cooked corn dog, whether it’s enjoyed at a county fair or whipped up in the comfort of your own home. Luckily for corn dog enthusiasts, there is an assortment of frozen options available at your local grocery store to satisfy those cravings on demand. In this article, we’ll be discussing some of the best frozen corn dogs available and what sets each one apart from the rest, making your decision-making process a bit simpler.
When selecting the ideal corn dog from the frozen food aisle, it is important to consider factors such as the quality of the hot dog, the texture and flavor of the cornmeal batter coating, and the overall ease of preparation. A great corn dog should not only be tasty but also able to be prepared quickly and effortlessly, as one of the main appeals of this snack is its convenience.
Throughout our exploration of the various frozen corn dog options, we will delve into aspects such as their ingredients, preparation methods, and unique selling points, as well as any potential drawbacks to bear in mind. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge necessary to make an informed decision and satisfy your craving for a mouth-watering, golden-brown corn dog.
State Fair Corn Dogs are a popular choice among frozen corn dog enthusiasts. Made with 100% beef and a honey-sweetened batter, they deliver a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. They can be found in most grocery stores and are easy to heat up in the oven, microwave, or deep fryer. Their crispy exterior and juicy meat make them a satisfying snack or meal option.
Foster Farms Corn Dogs offer a classic taste with a quality twist. Made from chicken, they provide a leaner alternative to traditional beef corn dogs without sacrificing flavor. These corn dogs can also be found in grocery stores and are ideal for those who prefer a lighter option.
For those seeking a vegetarian option, Morningstar Farms Veggie Corn Dogs are an excellent choice. Made with a meatless hot dog and a tasty batter, they offer a similar experience to traditional corn dogs but without the meat. They can be found alongside other frozen vegetarian options in grocery stores and cater to a variety of dietary needs.
Field Roast Vegan Corn Dogs provide a plant-based alternative to traditional corn dogs. Made with Field Roast’s signature grain meat, these corn hounds are ideal for vegans and vegetarians alike. The flavorful batter complements the plant-based hot dog, making for a delicious treat that’s easy to prepare and can be found in many grocery stores’ frozen food sections.
Great Value Corn Dogs
For shoppers on a budget, Great Value Corn Dogs provide an affordable and tasty option. Available exclusively at Walmart, these corn dogs have a crunchy exterior and a satisfying meaty interior. While not as well-known as some of the other brands, they offer a reliable and cost-effective choice for frozen corn dog lovers.
Corn Dog Varieties
Beef
Beef corn dogs are a classic choice for many consumers. They typically consist of a beef frankfurter dipped in a cornmeal batter and fried until golden brown. Some prominent brands offer all-beef corn dogs that feature a rich, meaty flavor, making them popular with both kids and adults. A few examples include:
Brand A: Known for their all-beef franks and crispy coating.
Brand B: Offers a jumbo-sized option for hearty appetites.
Chicken
Chicken corn dogs are a lighter alternative to their beef counterparts. Made with chicken franks, they offer a leaner protein option while still maintaining the familiar corn dog taste. You’ll find various chicken corn dog options on the market, such as:
Brand C: This option has a lower fat content and a tender texture.
Brand D: Incorporates a tasty blend of chicken and spices.
Vegetarian
Vegetarian corn dogs cater to those who prefer a meatless option. These products typically use a meat substitute, such as soy protein, to mimic the texture of traditional franks. Some popular vegetarian choices include:
Brand E: Features a soy-based frank and savory batter.
Brand F: Offers a convincing meat-like texture and tasty coating.
Vegan
Vegan corn dogs are similar to vegetarian options but go a step further by eliminating all animal-derived ingredients, including eggs and dairy. They’re perfect for those adhering to a strict vegan lifestyle. A couple of noteworthy vegan options are:
Brand G: This plant-based option also boasts a GMO-free label.
Brand H: A delicious vegan corn dog with a crunchy exterior.
Mini Corn Dogs
Mini corn dogs provide a convenient snack-sized option for consumers. They’re perfect for parties, appetizers, or on-the-go snacking. Many brands offer mini corn dog varieties, regardless of the type of frank used. Some popular picks include:
Brand I: Known for their bite-sized beef corn dogs, ideal for quick snacking.
Brand J: These mini chicken corn dogs pack a flavorful punch.
Gluten-Free
Gluten-free corn dogs cater to individuals with gluten sensitivities or those following a gluten-free diet. These options use alternative ingredients for the batter, such as rice flour, to provide a tasty and safe snack. A few gluten-free products to consider include:
Brand K: A delicious gluten-free option with a beef frank.
Brand L: This gluten-free alternative uses a chicken frank and a crispy coating.
Cooking Methods
Microwave
Microwaving corn dogs is a quick and simple method. To cook, place the frozen corn dogs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a paper towel to avoid messes from splatter. Cook on high power for about 45 seconds to 1 minute per corn dog, depending on the wattage of your microwave.
Pros: Fast; convenient; easy cleanup
Cons: May not be as crispy
Oven
The oven cooking method takes a little more time, but the results yield a crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy interior. Preheat your oven to 350°F, and arrange the frozen corn dogs on a baking sheet. Bake for approximately 18-20 minutes, turning halfway through cook time.
Pros: Crispy exterior; even cooking
Cons: Takes longer than microwaving
Deep-Fried
Deep-frying frozen corn dogs provide a deliciously crispy coating while locking in the juicy flavors. Heat a pot of oil to 350°F, and use a fryer basket or slotted spoon to gently lower the frozen corn dogs into the hot oil. Fry for around 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Pros: Ultimate crispy texture; locks in flavor
Cons: Requires more oil; higher calorie count
Air Fryer
For those who want the crispy texture of deep-frying without excess oil, an air fryer works wonders. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F, and place the frozen corn dogs in the basket, ensuring adequate space between each one. Cook for 12-14 minutes, turning halfway through for even cooking.
Pros: Crispy texture; uses less oil
Cons: Requires an air fryer; cook time longer than microwave
Key Qualities to Look For
Crispy Breading
A key factor in the perfect corn dog is the crispy breading. You want a corn dog whose outside offers a satisfying crunch when you bite into it—this contrasts perfectly with the juicy filling. There are some factors that contribute to a crispy breading, such as carefully formulated flour mixtures and cooking methods. To get a great texture every time, follow the cooking instructions on the packaging.
Juicy Fillings
The inside of a quality corn dog should be juicy and tender. Fillings can include various meat options such as beef, pork, or chicken. Pay attention to the meat quality, as this will directly influence the taste and juiciness of your corn dog. The best-frozen corn dogs will have good-quality fillings made from real meat and will be evenly distributed throughout the corn dog.
Flavorful Batter
The batter is the base of the corn dog’s taste, acting as a bridge between the breading and the filling. A top-notch batter should have a balanced, savory taste that complements the meat inside. Look for frozen corn dogs made with a tasty batter containing ingredients such as buttermilk, cornmeal, or seasonings like garlic and onion powder.
Sweetness
While sweetness is a matter of personal preference, a great corn dog will have a hint of sweetness in its breading and batter. This subtle sweetness should not overpower the other flavors but serve as a pleasant accent to the overall taste. Pay attention to ingredient lists and consumer reviews when searching for a corn dog with the right sweetness level for your palate.
Moisture Content
Maintaining a proper moisture content is crucial for a satisfying corn dog experience. The breading should be crispy without being too dry, and the filling should be juicy without being soggy. The best-frozen corn dogs will achieve this balance, ensuring a delicious meal every time.
Budget Considerations
Lastly, consider your budget when choosing the best frozen corn dog option. Various brands offer differently priced products without sacrificing taste and quality.
Brand
Price Range
Brand A
$0.80 – $1.20 per corn dog
Brand B
$1.00 – $1.50 per corn dog
Brand C
$1.20 – $1.60 per corn dog
Though the price may be a significant factor, always prioritize the taste and quality of the corn dog above all else.
Add-ons and Accompaniments
Condiments
When it comes to corn dogs, dipping sauces can elevate the flavor and enjoyment. Here are some popular condiments to pair with your frozen corn dogs:
Honey: A sweet alternative to savory dips, honey adds a touch of natural sweetness that balances the saltiness of the corn dog.
Mustard: Both yellow and Dijon mustard work well with corn dogs. Their tangy, zesty flavors complement the cornmeal batter and hot-dog filling.
Ketchup: A classic accompaniment, ketchup offers a blend of sweetness and acidity that highlights the overall taste.
Cheese
Adding cheese as an accompaniment to corn dogs can be a crowd-pleaser. There are a couple of ways to incorporate cheese:
Cheese Dip: Melt cheddar or any other preferred cheese to make a warm, cheesy dipping sauce for your corn dogs.
Cheese-Stuffed Corn Dogs: Look for frozen cheese-filled corn dogs for an extra cheesy treat.
Frozen Appetizers
Pair your corn dogs with other frozen appetizers for a more exciting and complete snack platter. Here are some suggestions:
Mozzarella Sticks: These cheesy, breaded delights pair well with corn dogs and offer an appealing textural contrast.
Fried Pickles: With their tangy, crunchy taste, fried pickles can be a great side dish for corn dogs.
Jalapeno Poppers: Spice up your platter with jalapeno poppers, adding heat and creaminess to your selection of appetizers.
Nutritional Concerns
Protein Content
Frozen corn dogs are a convenient snack, but their protein content may not be sufficient for some people. Most store-bought corn dogs contain about 5-10 grams of protein per serving. While this can contribute to your daily protein intake, it’s important to balance your diet with other protein-rich foods for optimal nutrition.
Sodium Levels
One concern with frozen corn dogs is their sodium content. Many brands contain high levels of sodium, often ranging from 400-700 milligrams per serving. Consuming too much sodium can lead to health problems, such as high blood pressure and heart disease. To minimize sodium intake, choose brands with lower sodium levels or opt for homemade corn dogs where you can control the amount of added salt.
Hormone-Free and Sustainable Options
When selecting frozen corn dogs, consider hormone-free and sustainable options. Some brands use meat products from animals raised without added hormones or antibiotics. Choosing hormone-free corn dogs helps reduce your exposure to these potentially harmful substances. Additionally, consider looking for brands that prioritize sustainability – this may include using ethically raised meat and environmentally friendly packaging. Some options to consider include:
Hormone-free: Brands that use hormone-free meats in their corn dogs
Sustainable packaging: Companies that prioritize eco-friendly materials for packaging their products
By taking these factors into account, you’ll be able to make more informed choices about the frozen corn dogs you purchase and consume.
Where to Buy
Walmart
Walmart offers a variety of frozen corn dog options at affordable prices. Some popular brands available at Walmart include State Fair and Foster Farms. You can either visit your local Walmart store or shop online for delivery or pickup. The corn dogs are usually found in the frozen food aisle, alongside other frozen snacks and appetizers. Here are some options at Walmart:
State Fair Classic Corn Dogs (16 count)
Foster Farms Mini Corn Dogs (40 count)
Great Value Corn Dogs (16 count)
Aldi
Aldi, known for its budget-friendly groceries, also carries frozen corn dog options. They have their own brand, Bremer, which offers corn dogs at a competitive price. You can find these corn dogs in the frozen snacks and appetizers section of your local Aldi. The Bremer corn dogs come in different sizes and pack counts:
Bremer Classic Corn Dogs (6 count)
Bremer Mini Corn Dogs (20 count)
Online Delivery Options
If you prefer the convenience of shopping from home, several online platforms deliver frozen corn dogs right to your doorstep. Some popular options include Amazon Fresh, Instacart, and Shipt. These platforms allow you to shop from various stores, including Walmart and Aldi, and offer a range of brands and pack sizes. Here’s what you may find on these platforms:
State Fair Classic Corn Dogs (16 count)
Foster Farms Mini Corn Dogs (40 count)
Bremer Classic Corn Dogs (6 count)
Remember to check delivery availability in your area and consider factors such as shipping fees and delivery time when ordering online.
Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. Her new book "Healthy Eating Through the Garden" will be released shortly. When not writing or speaking about food and gardens Cassie can be found puttering around farmer's markets and greenhouses looking for the next great idea.
