Patrick Bertoletti is looking to build off the 58 hot dogs and buns he downed en route to winning his first-ever Mustard Belt at the Nathan's Hot Dog eating contest last year ... with the champ telling TMZ Sports he hopes to eclipse 60 tube steaks this July 4!!
We spoke with Bertoletti ahead of his title defense at Coney Island ... and while he does feel anxious -- he says it's giving him energy and more drive to get the job done.
Bertoletti's main goal is improving his number from last year, saying entering the 60 range "would be great.