If you are on the lookout for a fun and mouthwatering twist on a classic picnic favorite, this Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs with Grilled Buns and Veggie Topping Recipe is sure to become your new go-to dish. The perfect marriage of smoky, crispy bacon hugging juicy hot dogs, paired with golden grilled buns and a vibrant, sautéed veggie topping, creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds and impress your friends and family. This recipe balances simplicity and flair, making it a fantastic choice for backyard cookouts, casual dinners, or anytime you crave comfort food elevated to the next level.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe is in its simple but essential ingredients, each bringing something important to the table. From the salty, crisp bacon to the fresh, sautéed veggies, every component plays a crucial role in making this dish burst with flavor and texture.
- 6 hot dogs: The star protein that soaks up the smoky bacon flavor wonderfully.
- 6 slices bacon: Wrap these around each hot dog to add crispy, savory goodness.
- Toothpicks: Important for securing the bacon so it cooks perfectly without unraveling.
- 6 buns: Grilling these adds a delightful crunch and warm, buttery flavor.
- Butter or mayonnaise: For spreading on buns before grilling; both help create crisp, golden edges.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Used to sauté the veggies for that perfect rich finish.
- 1 half onion (sliced): Adds sweet, caramelized flavor when cooked.
- 1 green pepper (sliced): Brings a fresh, mild crunch and vibrant color.
- 1 jalapeno (thinly sliced): Adds a gentle heat to balance the smoky and savory notes.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every bite.
- All the fixins (ketchup, mustard, mayo, etc.): Your choice of condiments to customize flavor and finish.
How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs with Grilled Buns and Veggie Topping Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Grill
Start by heating your grill to a low heat setting. This careful temperature control ensures the bacon crisps up without burning and the hot dogs get heated through evenly. Low and slow is the name of the game for perfectly cooked bacon-wrapped dogs.
Step 2: Wrap the Hot Dogs with Bacon
Take one slice of bacon and wrap it snugly around each hot dog. Secure the ends with two toothpicks pushed in as far as possible—this keeps the bacon in place while it grills and prevents it from catching fire. This little step makes all the difference for flawless results.
Step 3: Grill the Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs
Place the wrapped hot dogs on the grill and turn them every couple of minutes. This rotating ensures every side cooks uniformly and the bacon becomes gloriously crispy. Expect this to take about 8 to 10 minutes depending on your desired bacon crunchiness. Keep an eye on them to prevent charring.
Step 4: Toast the Buns to Perfection
While the hot dogs are finishing, spread your buns with a thin layer of butter or mayonnaise. Then, grill them cut-side down for 1 to 3 minutes. You want those lovely grill marks that add texture and deepen the buttery flavor. Toasted buns elevate the entire dish.
Step 5: Prepare the Veggie Topping
Slice the onions and green peppers into bite-size strips, and thinly slice the jalapeno, removing the membrane so it’s just the right amount of heat without overpowering. These veggies will add freshness and a slight kick to complement the rich bacon and meat.
Step 6: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the prepared veggies and sauté for about 6 to 8 minutes until they caramelize slightly and reach the tenderness you prefer. The buttery, savory vegetables are what make this Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs with Grilled Buns and Veggie Topping Recipe stand out from the ordinary.
Step 7: Assemble Your Masterpiece
Top each grilled, bacon-wrapped hot dog with a generous spoonful of the warm veggie mixture. Then, pile on your favorite fixins like ketchup, mustard, or mayo. This final step lets you personalize your creation and adds layers of flavor that keep every bite exciting.
How to Serve Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs with Grilled Buns and Veggie Topping Recipe
Garnishes
Consider fresh garnishes like chopped fresh parsley or chives to brighten the deep, smoky flavors. A sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dash of hot sauce can also add an extra punch to the toppings and personalize your hot dogs further.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with classic picnic sides like crispy potato chips, coleslaw, or a vibrant summer salad. The richness of the bacon-wrapped hot dogs balances perfectly with lighter, crunchy sides that add refreshment and texture contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the hot dogs into bite-sized pieces and serve as party skewers, layering with grilled peppers and onions. Alternatively, build a hot dog bar where everyone customizes their Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs with Grilled Buns and Veggie Topping Recipe with various unique toppings and sauces for an interactive meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, keep the bacon-wrapped hot dogs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store the veggie topping separately to preserve its texture and freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked bacon-wrapped hot dogs by wrapping each dog individually in foil or plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they will keep for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain quality.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers by placing them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid the microwave as it tends to make bacon rubbery; reheating on the grill is another excellent option to reclaim that fresh-grilled flavor.
FAQs
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon offers a leaner alternative and will still deliver delicious smoky flavor, though it may crisp up a bit differently. Keep an eye on it while grilling so it doesn’t dry out.
Is it necessary to use toothpicks when wrapping the hot dogs?
While it is possible to grill without toothpicks, using them ensures the bacon stays tightly wrapped and doesn’t unravel on the grill. Just be sure to push them in well to prevent burning.
Can I make the veggie topping ahead of time?
Yes, the sautéed veggie topping can be prepared a few hours in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving to maintain the buttery flavor and texture.
How spicy will the jalapeno make the dish?
The jalapeno adds a mild to moderate heat, especially if you remove the membrane and seeds as recommended. Feel free to adjust the amount or omit it if you prefer a milder topping.
What type of buns work best for this recipe?
Classic hot dog buns work perfectly here, but feel free to try brioche or potato buns for a richer, softer option. Grilling the buns is key to adding that irresistible toasty crunch regardless of the type.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about sinking your teeth into a Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dog with Grilled Buns and Veggie Topping Recipe that beautifully combines smoky, savory, tangy, and fresh flavors all in one bite. This recipe is a fantastic way to elevate an everyday favorite into a memorable treat you’ll want to share on repeat. Trust me, once you try it, this will become a cherished addition to your recipe rotation, perfect for any grilling occasion or comfort food craving.
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Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs with Grilled Buns and Veggie Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Grilling
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs recipe combines savory hot dogs with crispy bacon, grilled to perfection and topped with a flavorful sautéed vegetable mixture. Served in toasted buns with your choice of condiments, this quick and delicious dish is perfect for a casual meal or barbecue.
Ingredients
Hot Dogs and Bacon
- 6 hot dogs
- 6 slices bacon
- Toothpicks (enough to secure bacon on hot dogs)
Buns and Condiments
- 6 buns
- Butter or mayonnaise (for grilling buns)
- All the fixins (ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, etc.)
Toppings
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 onion, sliced
- 1 green pepper, sliced into bite-size strips
- 1 jalapeno, thinly sliced, membrane discarded
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to low heat to prepare for cooking the hot dogs and buns.
- Wrap Hot Dogs: Wrap each hot dog with one slice of bacon and secure each end with two toothpicks, pushing them in as far as possible to prevent burning.
- Grill Hot Dogs: Place the bacon-wrapped hot dogs on the grill over low heat. Turn every couple of minutes to cook the bacon evenly, grilling for about 8-10 minutes until bacon is crispy to your liking.
- Grill Buns: When hot dogs are nearly done, spread butter or mayonnaise on the buns. Grill them cut-side-down for 1-3 minutes until grill marks form and buns are toasted.
- Prepare Vegetables: Slice the onion, green pepper, and jalapeno (removing membrane) into appropriate sizes for topping.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter until hot. Add the sliced vegetables and sauté for 6-8 minutes or until they reach the desired tenderness. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble Hot Dogs: Place the bacon-wrapped hot dogs in the grilled buns, top with the sautéed vegetables and your favorite condiments such as ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise.
Notes
- Push toothpicks deep to avoid them burning on the grill.
- Adjust grilling time to achieve preferred bacon crispness.
- Remove jalapeno membrane to reduce heat.
- You can substitute butter with mayonnaise on buns for a different flavor.
- Saute vegetables to your preferred tenderness for topping.
