If you’re looking to elevate your hot dog game, bacon-wrapped hot dogs are a delicious treat that combines two classic favorites. The smoky, crispy bacon perfectly complements the juicy hot dog, adding layers of flavor and texture. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, making bacon-wrapped hot dogs at home is easier than you might think. This guide will walk you through the best ways to prepare them, tips for getting the perfect crispy bacon, and some tasty serving ideas.
Choosing the Right Hot Dogs and Bacon
Start with quality ingredients for the best results. For hot dogs, opt for all-beef or your favorite variety that holds up well during cooking—look for thick, plump dogs rather than thin ones, as these will retain their juiciness better. When it comes to bacon, choose regular cut strips; thick-cut bacon can be too bulky to wrap around the hot dog evenly, while very thin bacon may cook too fast and burn.
Make sure your bacon strips are long enough to wrap fully around the hot dogs, or you can trim them slightly to fit. If you’re aiming for a particular flavor profile, consider smoked bacon for extra depth or peppered bacon for a little kick.
Preparation Tips for Wrapping and Cooking
Before wrapping, partially cook the bacon to make it more pliable and help it crisp up nicely without overcooking the hot dog. You can lay the bacon strips on a baking sheet and pre-cook them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, just until they start to render fat but are still flexible.
Wrap each hot dog tightly with a bacon strip, overlapping slightly to ensure it stays secure during cooking. For an even better hold, you can skewer the wrapped hot dog with toothpicks or metal skewers, though this is optional if your bacon is wrapped snugly.
Best Cooking Methods: Grill, Oven, or Pan
Grilling: The grill is the classic choice and adds wonderful smoky flavor. Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the bacon-wrapped hot dogs on the grates and cook, turning every few minutes to crisp the bacon evenly without burning. Expect around 10–15 minutes depending on your grill.
Oven: For indoor cooking, the oven works well and requires less attention. Preheat to 400°F (205°C) and place the wrapped hot dogs on a baking rack over a sheet pan to allow fat to drip away. Bake for 15–20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and hot dogs are heated through.
Pan-frying: Use a large skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon-wrapped hot dogs slowly, turning frequently to render the fat and crisp the bacon evenly. This method requires more hands-on attention to prevent burning but yields excellent results.
Serving Suggestions to Impress Everyone
Bacon-wrapped hot dogs are delicious on their own but shine even brighter with the right toppings and sides. Classic mustard, ketchup, and relish work perfectly, but you can also try more adventurous options like caramelized onions, jalapeño slices, or a drizzle of spicy mayo.
For a fun twist, serve them on toasted buns with melted cheese or crispy fried onions. Pair with coleslaw or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the bacon. These hot dogs make an excellent addition to backyard barbecues, game days, or casual family dinners.
Final Tips for Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs Every Time
Keep an eye on the cooking to avoid burning the bacon. Cooking at moderate heat and turning regularly helps achieve an even crispness. If you like a really crispy bacon texture, finish the hot dogs under the broiler for a minute or two once cooked through, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Experiment with different hot dog types and bacon flavors to find your ideal combination. Once you master the method, bacon-wrapped hot dogs can become a go-to recipe that elevates your meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Enjoy crafting this delicious treat that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next meal!