Name: Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs: The Ultimate Guide to Deliciousness
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 package (8 count) hot dogs; 8 slices bacon, preferably thin-cut; 8 hot dog buns; Optional toppings: Ketchup, mustard, relish, chopped onions, chili, cheese sauce, sauerkraut, jalapeños; Optional: Toothpicks

Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs: Prepare to elevate your grilling game with a recipe that's guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser! Forget everything you thought you knew about ordinary hot dogs because we're about to embark on a culinary adventure that's smoky, savory, and utterly irresistible.

The concept of wrapping savory meats in bacon isn't new; cultures around the world have long understood the magic that happens when these two ingredients unite. Think of the Spanish "datiles con beicon" (dates wrapped in bacon) or the classic "pigs in a blanket" – the allure of bacon enhancing other flavors is timeless. But today, we're taking that principle and applying it to the humble hot dog, transforming it into something truly special.

Why are bacon wrapped hot dogs so beloved? It's simple: the crispy, salty bacon perfectly complements the juicy, slightly sweet hot dog. The combination of textures – the snap of the hot dog casing, the crispness of the bacon, and the soft bun – is a symphony in your mouth. Plus, they're incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a backyard barbecue. Whether you're looking for a fun twist on a classic or a guaranteed way to impress your guests, these bacon-wrapped delights are the answer. Get ready to experience hot dogs like never before!

Ingredients:

1 package (8 count) hot dogs
8 slices bacon, preferably thin-cut
8 hot dog buns
Optional toppings: Ketchup, mustard, relish, chopped onions, chili, cheese sauce, sauerkraut, jalapeños
Optional: Toothpicks

Preparing the Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs

Alright, let's get started! This recipe is super simple, but the key is in the execution. We want that bacon nice and crispy, clinging perfectly to the hot dog. Here's how we do it:

Prepare your workspace: Lay out a clean cutting board. This will be your bacon-wrapping station. Make sure you have your package of hot dogs and bacon ready to go. If you're using toothpicks, have them handy as well.
Wrap the hot dogs: Take one hot dog and one slice of bacon. Starting at one end of the hot dog, begin wrapping the bacon around it in a spiral. Overlap the bacon slightly with each wrap, ensuring that the entire hot dog is covered.
Secure the bacon (optional): If you're worried about the bacon unraveling during cooking, use a toothpick to secure it. Insert the toothpick through the bacon and into the hot dog at both ends of the bacon strip. This will keep everything in place. I usually find this unnecessary if I wrap tightly, but it's a good safety net!
Repeat: Repeat steps 2 and 3 for the remaining hot dogs and bacon slices. You should end up with 8 beautifully bacon-wrapped hot dogs.

Cooking the Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs

Now comes the fun part – cooking! There are a few different ways you can cook these bad boys, and I'll walk you through each one. My personal favorite is grilling, but the oven and skillet methods work great too.

Grilling Method

Preheat your grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
Grill the hot dogs: Place the bacon-wrapped hot dogs on the grill grates. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, turning frequently, until the bacon is cooked through and crispy and the hot dog is heated through. Keep a close eye on them to prevent the bacon from burning. The fat from the bacon will render and can cause flare-ups, so be prepared to move the hot dogs to a cooler part of the grill if needed.
Check for doneness: The bacon should be golden brown and crispy, and the hot dog should be plump and heated all the way through. Use tongs to carefully remove the hot dogs from the grill.

Oven Method

Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Bake the hot dogs: Place the bacon-wrapped hot dogs on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is cooked through and crispy and the hot dog is heated through. Turn the hot dogs halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
Broil for extra crispiness (optional): If you want the bacon extra crispy, you can broil the hot dogs for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking time. Keep a very close eye on them, as they can burn quickly under the broiler.
Check for doneness: The bacon should be golden brown and crispy, and the hot dog should be plump and heated all the way through. Use tongs to carefully remove the hot dogs from the oven.

Skillet Method

Heat a skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. A cast iron skillet works particularly well for this method, as it distributes heat evenly.
Cook the hot dogs: Place the bacon-wrapped hot dogs in the skillet. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning frequently, until the bacon is cooked through and crispy and the hot dog is heated through. As the bacon cooks, it will render its fat, which will help to fry the hot dog and create a delicious, crispy crust.
Drain excess grease (optional): If there is a lot of grease in the skillet, you can carefully drain some of it off during cooking.
Check for doneness: The bacon should be golden brown and crispy, and the hot dog should be plump and heated all the way through. Use tongs to carefully remove the hot dogs from the skillet.

Assembling and Serving

Alright, the bacon-wrapped hot dogs are cooked to perfection! Now it's time to assemble them and load them up with your favorite toppings. This is where you can really get creative and customize your hot dogs to your liking.

Prepare the buns: If you like, you can toast the hot dog buns lightly. This will add a nice crunch and prevent them from getting soggy. You can toast them in a toaster, under the broiler, or in a skillet.
Place the hot dogs in the buns: Carefully place each bacon-wrapped hot dog into a bun.
Add your favorite toppings: Now comes the fun part! Load up your hot dogs with your favorite toppings. Here are some ideas:
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Relish
- Chopped onions
- Chili
- Cheese sauce
- Sauerkraut
- Jalapeños
Serve immediately: Serve your bacon-wrapped hot dogs immediately and enjoy! They're best when they're hot and the bacon is crispy.

Tips and Variations

Here are a few extra tips and variations to take your bacon-wrapped hot dogs to the next level:

Use high-quality ingredients: The better the quality of your hot dogs and bacon, the better the final product will be. Look for all-beef hot dogs and thick-cut bacon for the best flavor and texture.
Add a glaze: For a sweet and savory twist, brush the bacon-wrapped hot dogs with a glaze during the last few minutes of cooking. A mixture of brown sugar, maple syrup, and a touch of Dijon mustard works well.
Stuff the hot dogs: Before wrapping the hot dogs in bacon, you can cut a slit down the center and stuff them with cheese, jalapeños, or other fillings.
Use different types of bacon: Experiment with different flavors of bacon, such as maple bacon, peppered bacon, or hickory-smoked bacon.
Make mini bacon-wrapped hot dogs: Cut the hot dogs in half or thirds before wrapping them in bacon for a fun appetizer or party snack.
Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the bacon-wrapped hot dogs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the bacon is crispy and the hot dog is heated through. This method is quick and easy, and it results in perfectly crispy bacon.
Spice it up: Sprinkle a little chili powder, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika on the bacon before wrapping it around the hot dog for a spicy kick.
Cheese it up: After cooking, sprinkle shredded cheese over the hot dogs and let it melt under the broiler or in a warm oven. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese would all be delicious.
Caramelized Onions: Top your bacon-wrapped hot dogs with caramelized onions for a sweet and savory flavor combination.
Avocado Crema: Drizzle with a creamy avocado crema for a cool and refreshing topping. To make avocado crema, blend together avocado, sour cream, lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of salt.

Enjoy your delicious bacon-wrapped hot dogs! I hope you have as much fun making and eating them as I do.

Conclusion:

This isn't just another hot dog recipe; it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The crispy, salty bacon perfectly complements the juicy hot dog, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. Trust me, these Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, whether you're grilling at a backyard barbecue, tailgating before the big game, or simply looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. The simplicity of the recipe belies its incredible deliciousness. It's the kind of dish that makes you wonder why you haven't been making it your whole life! But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different types of hot dogs – beef, pork, chicken, or even vegetarian options all work beautifully. And don't be afraid to get creative with your toppings!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Style: Keep it simple with ketchup, mustard, and relish. A timeless combination that never fails. * Chili Cheese Dogs: Top your bacon-wrapped beauties with homemade or store-bought chili and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. * Southwestern Flair: Add some diced avocado, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream for a zesty kick. * Caramelized Onions and Peppers: Sauté some onions and bell peppers until softened and slightly caramelized, then pile them on top for a sweet and savory twist. * Spicy Sriracha Mayo: Mix sriracha sauce with mayonnaise to your desired level of heat and drizzle it over the hot dogs. * Gourmet Style: Try using gourmet sausages like bratwurst or Italian sausage instead of regular hot dogs. * Bacon Variations: Experiment with different types of bacon! Thick-cut bacon will provide a heartier bite, while maple-flavored bacon will add a touch of sweetness. You can even try using turkey bacon for a slightly healthier option. Beyond the toppings, consider the bun! A toasted bun adds a delightful crunch and prevents the hot dog from becoming soggy. You can also try using pretzel buns for a unique and flavorful experience. And for a truly decadent treat, consider adding a layer of cheese between the hot dog and the bacon before wrapping. I'm confident that once you try these Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs, they'll become a regular part of your culinary repertoire. They're easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and endlessly customizable. So, fire up the grill (or preheat your oven!), gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience hot dog perfection. Don't just take my word for it – give this recipe a try and see for yourself! I'm eager to hear about your creations and variations. What toppings did you use? What kind of bacon did you choose? Did you make any modifications to the recipe? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! I can't wait to see what you come up with. Happy grilling (or baking!), and enjoy your delicious Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs! Let me know what you think!