Hot Dago Recipe: All You Need to Know to Create This Mouth-Watering Italian-American Dish
A delicious combination of varying textures and savory flavors, the Hot Dago is a must-try! However, this delightful meal's name has a rather controversial history.
In the late 19th century and early 20th century, Italian-American immigrants introduced the Hot Dago sandwich in St. Paul, Minnesota. Traditionally, it comprises an Italian sausage patty that rests between two slices of bread and is topped with marinara sauce and cheese.
Over the following decades, Italian-American-owned restaurants (and others) across Minnesota produced equally mouth-watering variations of this meaty delicacy. It is worth noting, however, that its popularity has been accompanied by controversy.
The word "dago" has a lengthy and offensive history. It was a derogatory term used to insult Italians, Spaniards, and the Portuguese. Although some members of the Italian-American community now use it as a term of endearment, others still find it inappropriate.
Some restaurants have even faced lawsuits for advertising Hot Dagos on their menus, though they weren't very effective. Hot Dagos are still enjoyed by Minnesotans in these establishments, and now, so can you, in the comfort of your home.
So, without further ado, take a look at the Hot Dago recipe below. Happy cooking!
Hot Dago Recipe
Ingredients:
- ground beef
- Italian sausages
- finely chopped onions (and a pepper of your choosing, if you'd like)
- oregano
- crushed red pepper
- creole seasoning
- 3 eggs
- bread crumbs
- bread
- fresh mozzarella
Instructions:
1. Start by cutting the casings of your Italian sausages and transferring the meat inside a large mixing bowl (discard the casings), then set aside.
Remove the casing of your Italian sausages. | Source: Shutterstock
2. In low-medium heat, sautee your finely chopped onion and bell pepper. While they cook, add about a tablespoon of oregano and crushed red pepper and continue sauteing until your onions and peppers are caramelized.
Sautee your onions (and peppers). | Source: Shutterstock
3. Back to your mixing bowl, combine your sausages, caramelized onions and peppers, ground beef, eggs, bread crumbs, and creole seasoning until everything is mixed.
Combine your meat, caramelized onions, and spices in a bowl until everything is mixed. | Source: Shutterstock
4. Using your meat mixture, shape your patty into your desired size. Ensure that it's not too thick, as it may not cook all the way through.
Shape your patty. | Source: Shutterstock
5. Add a bit of oil to another pan and cook your patties; sear each side until there's no pink color, then ensure it's cooked all the way through. Alternatively, you can grill them in the oven under medium heat.
6. Once they're ready, transfer them to a clean plate.
Cook your patties. | Source: Shutterstock
Now, it's time to assemble your Hot Dago. Toast two slices of bread and spread melted garlic butter, then place a patty on each slice. Top each with marinara or ragu sauce, then drizzle your grated mozzarella cheese.
The finished product | Source: Getty Images
Place your plate inside the oven for a few minutes for the cheese to melt, then take it out with oven mitts. Note that while you can purchase your sauce, you are still welcome to make your own at home. Now your Hot Dago is ready for you to indulge.
For another great idea for lunch, try this recipe for Salmon Lasagne Rolls. Enjoy!