These homemade hot dogs are juicy, tender, and perfect for a sodium-conscious lifestyle. With no added salt and flavorful herbs, they support a heart-healthy, kidney-friendly diet.
This low sodium hot dog recipe offers a tasty, lean alternative to store-bought options. Using a blend of lean pork and turkey, plus wholesome oats, you get a delicious, preservative-free hot dog with a satisfying bite.
The texture is smooth and the flavor is gently spiced using herbs instead of salt, making it ideal for a reduced sodium or DASH-friendly diet.
Jump to RecipeIngredients Needed:
- 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats: ground finely for binding.
- 1 pound lean ground pork (90% lean): for juicy texture.
- 1 pound lean ground turkey (93% lean): adds lean protein.
- 2 large egg whites: helps bind the mixture.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder: for flavor (or use garlic-free blend).
- 1 tablespoon onion powder: adds depth (optional).
- 4 teaspoons ground dry mustard: sharp, tangy flavor.
- 1½ teaspoons dried thyme leaves: herby aroma.
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: mild warmth.
- 1 teaspoon ground mace: subtle spice.
- 1 teaspoon ground sweet paprika: rich color and taste.
- ¼ teaspoon no-salt seasoning blend (optional): replaces added salt.
- 1½ teaspoons black pepper: freshly ground.
How To Make Low Sodium Hot Dogs:
Grind the Oats:
Use a food processor or mini-processor to grind oats into fine powder. Set aside.
Make the Meat Mixture:
Process pork and turkey in a food processor until very smooth. Add oats, egg whites, and all spices. Process until paste-like, without overheating.
Taste Test:
Cook a small patty in a skillet or microwave to check flavor. Adjust seasonings if needed, avoiding added salt.
Shape Hot Dogs:
Form into 2 oz balls and roll into 5-inch logs. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
Cook Hot Dogs:
Place half in a skillet with water reaching halfway up. Boil, then simmer for about 15 minutes, turning gently. Repeat with the rest.

Recipe Tips:
- Use a sausage maker if you prefer casing texture.
- Keep logs thick to prevent breaking during cooking.
- Use fresh ground spices for best flavor.
- Chill mixture for 1–2 hours for easier shaping.
How to Store & Reheat:
- Room Temperature: Not recommended.
- Fridge: Store in airtight container up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individually, freeze up to 6 months. Thaw overnight, reheat in skillet or microwave.
Nutrition Facts (per hot dog, approx):
- Calories: 110
- Sodium: ~45 mg
- Protein: 12 g
- Fat: 4.5 g
- Carbs: 5 g
- Fibre: 1 g
- Sugar: 0 g
FAQs:
Can I make hot dogs without salt?
Yes, this recipe uses herbs and spices for flavor with no added salt.
Are low sodium hot dogs good for heart health?
Yes, these are heart-healthy and DASH-friendly due to low salt and lean meat.
What can I use instead of garlic or onion powder?
Try rosemary, thyme, or celery seed for a flavorful, low sodium option.
Can I grill these hot dogs?
Yes! After boiling, grill briefly for char and texture.
Are oats necessary in this recipe?
Yes, they help bind the meat but add no noticeable taste.
Low Sodium Hot Dog Recipe
Course: DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy18
servings25
minutes30
minutes110
kcalA lean, savory hot dog with soft texture and herby flavor—crafted for a heart-smart, low sodium lifestyle.
Ingredients
1 cup rolled oats (ground)
1 lb lean ground pork
1 lb lean ground turkey
2 large egg whites
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder4 tsp dry mustard
1½ tsp dried thyme1 tsp nutmeg
1 tsp mace
1 tsp paprika
¼ tsp no-salt seasoning (optional)
1½ tsp black pepper
Directions
- Grind oats until fine. Set aside.
- Process meats until smooth. Add oats, egg whites, and seasonings. Blend to paste.
- Cook a test patty. Adjust seasoning.
- Shape 2 oz logs. Place on lined tray.
- Simmer in water for 15 minutes per batch.
- Cool on paper towels. Grill if desired.
Notes
- Skip added salt entirely for strict low sodium diets.
- Chill mix before shaping for better texture.
- Freeze extras for easy meals.