Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs Recipe

If you're a fan of bold flavors and crave something that's both spicy and savory, this Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs recipe is for you! Combining the smoky goodness of bacon, the creaminess of jalapeño popper filling, and the classic taste of grilled hot dogs, this recipe is sure to become your go-to for BBQs, game days, or any casual meal. Whether you’re cooking for friends or family, these hot dogs will leave a lasting impression. Read on to discover how to make this deliciously indulgent dish from scratch.

What Are Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs?

Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs are the ultimate fusion food, blending the best elements of two popular appetizers: jalapeño poppers and classic American hot dogs. This recipe features grilled hot dogs wrapped in crispy bacon, stuffed with a creamy, cheesy jalapeño filling. The result is an explosion of flavors and textures in every bite – the heat from the jalapeños, the richness of the cheese, the crunch of the bacon, and the smokiness of the hot dog all come together to create an unforgettable culinary experience.

Ingredients List for Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs

Here’s what you’ll need to make these amazing hot dogs:

For the Jalapeño Popper Filling:

• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2-3 fresh jalapeños (finely diced)
• 2 green onions (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Hot Dogs:

• 8 beef hot dogs (or your preferred variety)
• 8 hot dog buns
• 8 slices of bacon (one for each hot dog)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
• Toothpicks (to secure the bacon around the hot dogs)

Optional Toppings:

• Sliced pickled jalapeños (for an extra kick)
• Diced red onions
• Chopped cilantro
• Sour cream or ranch dressing (for drizzling)

Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions:

• Vegetarian Option: Use veggie dogs and swap bacon with plant-based bacon or thin strips of roasted bell pepper for a vegetarian twist.
• Cheese Alternatives: You can substitute shredded cheddar with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Heat Levels: If you're sensitive to spice, consider using mild green chiles instead of jalapeños or removing the seeds from the jalapeños to reduce their heat.

Variations:

• Bacon-Wrapped Cheese-Stuffed Dogs: For an even cheesier option, stuff the hot dogs themselves with cheese before wrapping them in bacon.
• Spicy Sriracha Mayo: Add some extra zing to your popper dogs by drizzling them with homemade Sriracha mayo.
• Grilled Peppers: Grill some additional jalapeños or bell peppers to use as toppings for added charred flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Jalapeño Popper Filling

Start by making the jalapeño popper filling. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, and green onions. Add garlic powder, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly until it's well combined and creamy. Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Prepare the Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs

Take each hot dog and carefully wrap a slice of bacon around it, securing the ends with toothpicks to hold the bacon in place. Make sure the bacon is wrapped tightly so it crisps up nicely during grilling.

Step 3: Grill the Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs

Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C). Lightly brush the bacon-wrapped hot dogs with olive oil to prevent them from sticking to the grill. Place them on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the hot dogs are evenly browned. Keep an eye on them to avoid flare-ups from the bacon grease.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

While the hot dogs are grilling, lightly toast the hot dog buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes, just until they’re golden and slightly crispy.

Step 5: Assemble the Hot Dogs

Once the bacon-wrapped hot dogs are done, remove them from the grill and carefully take out the toothpicks. Spread a generous amount of the jalapeño popper filling on each toasted bun, then place the bacon-wrapped hot dog on top. Add any additional toppings like pickled jalapeños, diced onions, or cilantro as desired.

How to Cook Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Filling: Mix cream cheese, cheddar, jalapeños, green onions, and seasonings in a bowl.
2. Wrap the Dogs: Wrap each hot dog with a slice of bacon and secure with toothpicks.
3. Grill: Preheat the grill and cook the bacon-wrapped hot dogs until crispy.
4. Toast Buns: Toast hot dog buns briefly on the grill.
5. Assemble: Spread the jalapeño popper filling inside each bun, add the bacon-wrapped hot dogs, and top with optional garnishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Bacon: If you cook the bacon-wrapped hot dogs too long, the bacon may burn before the hot dog is fully cooked. Keep the heat at medium and turn the dogs frequently to ensure even cooking.
• Skipping the Toothpicks: If you don’t secure the bacon with toothpicks, it may unravel during grilling. Always use toothpicks and remember to remove them before serving.
• Using Cold Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened before mixing the filling. Cold cream cheese won’t blend well with the other ingredients, making it difficult to spread on the buns.
• Underseasoning the Filling: Don’t forget to season the jalapeño popper filling with enough salt and pepper. The filling needs to have a good balance of flavors to complement the smoky, spicy hot dogs.

Serving and Presentation Tips

These Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs are meant to be enjoyed as a casual, fun dish, but that doesn’t mean you can’t elevate the presentation a bit!

How to Serve Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs

• With Chips or Fries: Serve alongside crispy fries or tortilla chips for a satisfying meal.
• Pair with a Cold Drink: These hot dogs have a bit of heat, so pair them with a refreshing drink like an ice-cold beer, soda, or a tangy lemonade.
• As Part of a BBQ Spread: Include these hot dogs in a larger BBQ spread with grilled veggies, salads, and other grilled meats for a festive meal.

Presentation Ideas for Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs

• Drizzle with Sauces: For a visually appealing finish, drizzle the top of the hot dogs with sour cream, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
• Serve on a Wooden Board: Present the hot dogs on a rustic wooden board or platter with small bowls of additional toppings and condiments on the side.

Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs Recipe Tips

• Grill with Care: Pay attention while grilling, especially with the bacon fat dripping, as it can cause flare-ups. Keep a spray bottle of water nearby to control any flames.
• Pre-Cook Bacon: For quicker grilling, you can partially cook the bacon in the microwave or on the stovetop before wrapping it around the hot dogs.
• Extra Filling: If you love the filling, make a double batch! Leftovers can be used as a dip for chips or veggies, or even spread on sandwiches.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I bake the bacon-wrapped hot dogs instead of grilling them?

Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the bacon-wrapped hot dogs in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy. Just place them on a wire rack over a baking sheet to allow the bacon to cook evenly.

How do I make these less spicy?

For a milder version, you can use fewer jalapeños or remove all the seeds and membranes from the peppers, which contain most of the heat. You could also substitute jalapeños with milder peppers like Anaheim or bell peppers.

Can I make the jalapeño popper filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling up to 1-2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to use it. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before spreading it on the buns.

Conclusion

Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs are the perfect fusion of two beloved foods: jalapeño poppers and classic hot dogs. With a crispy bacon exterior, a creamy and spicy jalapeño filling, and all the best toppings, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're hosting a summer BBQ or just want to indulge in something special, this dish is easy to make and bursting with flavor. Give it a try at your next gathering, and enjoy the bold, satisfying taste!

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