Caroline Manzo’s Hot Dog with Peppers, Onions and Potatoes ‘Brings a Smile’ to Everyone at a Tailgate

Real Housewives of New Jersey alum Caroline Manzo knows just the trick to keeping every football fan happy while watching a game.

“An Italian hot dog is one of those things that brings a smile to your face time after time. It never disappoints in its simple deliciousness,” says the Bravo star. “With the toasted roll, crispy potatoes and sautéed peppers and onions, it’s a literal taste explosion in your mouth. It’s messy, oily, and delicious.”

“Tailgating means fun food. Fun food is easy to cook, enjoyed with your hands and feeds the masses,” she continues about this crowd-favorite recipe from her new cookbook Food and Other Things I Love.

Caroline Manzo’s Hot Dogs with Peppers, Onions and Potatoes

6 baby red potatoes 

2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1 small green bell pepper, cut into strips

1 small red bell pepper, cut into strips

1 small white onion, halved and sliced

¾ tsp. kosher salt, plus more for cooking potatoes

½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper

½ tsp. dried oregano

6 hot dogs

6 hot dog buns, toasted

Spicy brown mustard, for serving

1. Place potatoes in a medium saucepan; add enough cold salted water to cover. Bring to a simmer over medium heat; cook until potatoes can be easily pierced with a fork, about 10 minutes. Drain, and rinse under cold water. Cut potatoes into cubes.

2.  Heat oil in a large skillet over medium until shimmering. Add bell peppers, onion and potatoes; cook, stirring often, until peppers and onion are soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in salt, pepper and oregano. Push vegetables to 1 side of skillet, and place hot dogs on the other side. Cook until lightly browned and heated through, about 4 minutes per side, letting veggies char slightly while hot dogs cook.

3.  Spread a little mustard inside the hot dog buns. Add hot dogs; top with vegetable mixture. Serve hot.

Serves: 6

Active time: 15 minutes

Total time: 35 minutes