Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs Recipe

If you love a spicy kick and the rich flavors of bacon and cream cheese, you’re in for a treat! Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs are a mouthwatering combination of juicy grilled hot dogs, crispy bacon, and a creamy, cheesy jalapeño filling. This delicious spin on a classic summer dish is perfect for backyard barbecues, game day snacks, or just a fun family dinner. Let’s dive in and explore how to make these incredible hot dogs from start to finish. You won’t want to miss a single step, so read on for all the tasty details!

this Recipe

What Are Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs?

Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs are a fusion of two popular comfort foods: jalapeño poppers and classic hot dogs. This recipe takes the best elements of both dishes—melty cream cheese, spicy jalapeños, crispy bacon, and savory hot dogs—and combines them into one flavor-packed meal. The jalapeño popper mixture is spread on top of the hot dogs, then they’re wrapped in bacon and grilled or cooked to crispy perfection. The result is a perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and smoky flavors with each bite. If you’re looking to impress your guests at the next BBQ, this dish will surely be a hit!

Ingredients List for Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs

Here’s what you’ll need to make these Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs:

• 4 beef hot dogs (or your favorite type of hot dog)
• 4 hot dog buns (preferably toasted or lightly grilled)
• 4 slices of bacon (one slice per hot dog)
• 2 fresh jalapeños (seeds removed and finely chopped)
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

These ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of flavors. The creaminess from the cream cheese, the spicy heat from the jalapeños, and the savory goodness of bacon and hot dogs combine to make this dish unforgettable.

Additional Ingredients for Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs

To take these Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs to the next level, you can also consider adding some of these extra ingredients:

• Pickled jalapeños: For an added tangy kick, use pickled jalapeños instead of fresh.
• Avocado slices: Add some creamy avocado to balance out the heat.
• Green onions: Finely chopped green onions provide a bit of freshness and crunch.
• Barbecue sauce: A drizzle of BBQ sauce adds a touch of sweetness and enhances the smoky flavors.
• Crushed tortilla chips: Sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips on top for extra crunch.

Feel free to mix and match these ingredients based on your personal preferences. Customizing the toppings is a fun way to make the recipe your own!

Substitutions and Variations

There are plenty of ways to customize this Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs recipe to suit your tastes or dietary preferences:

• Turkey or chicken hot dogs: Swap out the beef hot dogs for turkey or chicken hot dogs if you prefer a leaner option.
• Vegan hot dogs: If you follow a plant-based diet, use vegan hot dogs, vegan bacon, and dairy-free cream cheese and cheddar.
• Spice level: Adjust the spiciness to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of jalapeños or remove the seeds. For extra heat, leave the seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Low-carb option: For a keto-friendly version, skip the buns and serve the hot dogs wrapped in bacon, topped with the jalapeño popper filling.
• Different cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can also experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda.

These substitutions and variations make it easy to adapt the recipe for different preferences or occasions.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make these delicious Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs, step by step:

1. Prepare the Jalapeño Popper Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If you’re using sour cream for extra creaminess, stir that in as well. Mix everything together until well combined and creamy. Set aside.

2. Wrap the Hot Dogs with Bacon

Take each hot dog and wrap it tightly with a slice of bacon. Secure the bacon at each end with toothpicks to prevent it from unraveling during cooking. This step gives the hot dogs a crispy, smoky layer of flavor.

3. Grill or Cook the Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs

Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the bacon-wrapped hot dogs on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the hot dogs are heated through. If you don’t have a grill, you can also cook the hot dogs in a skillet over medium heat, or even bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

4. Toast the Hot Dog Buns

While the hot dogs are cooking, lightly toast the hot dog buns on the grill or in a toaster. This step is optional, but a warm, slightly crispy bun adds great texture to the finished dish.

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 mixture inside each toasted bun. Place the hot dog on top of the spread and add any additional toppings you like, such as pickled jalapeños, avocado slices, or crushed tortilla chips.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

Your Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs are ready to be devoured! Serve them immediately while they’re hot and fresh, and enjoy the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and smoky flavors in every bite.

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

If you’re a visual learner or just like to follow detailed steps, here’s a quick guide on how to cook Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs:

1. Prepare the jalapeño popper filling by mixing cream cheese, cheddar, jalapeños, and seasonings.
2. Wrap the hot dogs with bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks.
3. Grill or cook the hot dogs until the bacon is crispy and the hot dogs are heated through.
4. Toast the buns for a crunchy, golden-brown finish.
5. Assemble the hot dogs by spreading the jalapeño popper mixture on the buns, adding the hot dog, and finishing with optional toppings.
6. Serve and enjoy while hot!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs:

• Not securing the bacon properly: If you don’t use toothpicks to secure the bacon, it might unravel while cooking. Make sure the bacon is tightly wrapped and secured.
• Overcooking the bacon: Cooking the hot dogs too long can result in overly crispy or burnt bacon. Keep an eye on them and turn frequently for even cooking.
• Too much jalapeño: While some people love spicy food, adding too many jalapeños can overpower the other flavors. Adjust the amount of jalapeños to suit your heat tolerance.
• Skipping the bun toasting: Toasting the buns adds an extra layer of texture that complements the creamy filling and crispy bacon. Don’t skip this step!

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation plays a key role in elevating this dish. Here are some tips to make your Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs look as good as they taste:

• Use colorful toppings: Bright green jalapeños, fresh avocado slices, and vibrant green onions add visual appeal.
• Drizzle with sauces: A light drizzle of BBQ sauce, sour cream, or even a spicy mayo can enhance both the flavor and presentation.
• Serve on a wooden board: Placing the hot dogs on a rustic wooden board gives a casual, yet stylish presentation that’s perfect for backyard gatherings.
• Garnish with herbs: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or parsley adds a fresh, professional touch.

How to Serve Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs

Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs can be served as the main dish or alongside classic BBQ sides like potato salad, coleslaw, or grilled corn. They’re perfect for casual get-togethers, family dinners, or game day snacks. Serve them with cold drinks like lemonade or beer for the ultimate summer meal.

Presentation Ideas for Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs

For a fun and creative presentation, try these ideas:

• Hot dog bar: Set up a "make-your-own" hot dog bar where guests can assemble their Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs with various toppings and sauces.
• Mini hot dogs: Make smaller versions using cocktail sausages and mini buns for bite-sized appetizers.

Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dog Recipe Tips

• Make ahead: You can prepare the jalapeño popper mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to two days. This saves time when you’re ready to assemble the hot dogs.
• Crispy bacon tip: For extra crispy bacon, cook the bacon-wrapped hot dogs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, turning halfway through.
• Add more cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top of the hot dogs before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make these hot dogs in advance?
A: Yes! You can prepare the jalapeño popper filling and wrap the hot dogs in bacon ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Q: What’s the best way to cook the hot dogs if I don’t have a grill?
A: You can cook the bacon-wrapped hot dogs in a skillet or bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes.

Q: Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Substitute the beef hot dogs and bacon with plant-based alternatives and use vegan cream cheese and cheddar for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Conclusion

Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs are a fantastic way to bring bold flavors and fun twists to your summer cookouts or any casual meal. With creamy, cheesy filling, spicy jalapeños, and smoky bacon all wrapped around juicy hot dogs, this dish is sure to impress your friends and family. The best part? It’s easy to customize, so everyone can enjoy their perfect hot dog! Try this recipe at your next gathering and watch these delicious creations disappear in no time.

Print