Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs Recipe

Take your hot dogs to the next level with these Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs! These loaded hot dogs combine the spicy, creamy, and cheesy flavors of classic jalapeño poppers with the irresistible crunch of bacon, all wrapped up in a juicy hot dog. Perfect for summer BBQs, game day, or anytime you’re craving something indulgent, these hot dogs are easy to make and guaranteed to impress. With crispy bacon, a creamy cheese filling, and spicy jalapeños, this recipe is the ultimate twist on traditional hot dogs. Read on for step-by-step instructions, tips, and delicious variations!

this Recipe

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What are Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs?

Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs are a creative mashup of two favorite indulgences—hot dogs and jalapeño poppers. The hot dogs are topped with a creamy cheese mixture, stuffed with spicy jalapeños, and wrapped in crispy bacon. The result is a savory, spicy, cheesy, and crunchy treat that brings a whole new level of flavor to the classic hot dog. They’re perfect for cookouts, tailgating, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something extra special.

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Ingredients List for Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs

Here’s what you’ll need to make these indulgent, flavor-packed hot dogs:

• Hot Dogs – 4 hot dogs, any kind (beef, pork, chicken, or even veggie dogs).
• Hot Dog Buns – 4 soft buns, toasted if desired.
• Bacon – 8 slices (2 slices per hot dog), for wrapping.
• Jalapeños – 2 fresh jalapeños, sliced or diced (adjust to taste).
• Cream Cheese – 4 oz, softened to room temperature.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – ½ cup, for added cheesy goodness.
• Green Onions – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped (optional, for garnish).
• Garlic Powder – ½ teaspoon, for flavor.
• Salt and Pepper – To taste, for seasoning.
• Toothpicks – To secure the bacon on the hot dogs.

Optional Toppings:

• Pickled jalapeños
• Chopped cilantro
• Sour cream
• Crispy fried onions

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Substitutions and Variations

This Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs Recipe is versatile, so feel free to customize it to your taste:

• Different Cheeses: You can swap the cheddar for pepper jack, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy flavor.
• Bacon Options: Use turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option.
• Spice Level: If you prefer milder heat, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños. For extra spice, leave them in or use hotter peppers like serranos.
• Veggie Dogs: For a vegetarian version, use plant-based hot dogs and vegetarian bacon, and make sure to use cream cheese and shredded cheese substitutes.

These variations allow you to customize the dish to fit your flavor preferences or dietary needs while still enjoying the indulgent flavors of bacon and jalapeño poppers.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

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

1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
   • In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
2. Slice the Jalapeños:
   • Thinly slice or dice the fresh jalapeños, removing the seeds and membranes if you want less heat. Set aside for topping the hot dogs.
3. Assemble the Hot Dogs:
   • Spread a layer of the cream cheese mixture on each hot dog. Sprinkle the fresh jalapeño slices or diced jalapeños on top of the cheese.
4. Wrap the Hot Dogs with Bacon:
   • Wrap each hot dog with two slices of bacon, overlapping slightly to cover the hot dog. Secure the bacon with toothpicks if needed to keep it in place during cooking.
5. Cook the Hot Dogs:On the Grill:
   • Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the bacon-wrapped hot dogs on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the hot dogs are heated through. Be careful not to burn the bacon—move the hot dogs to indirect heat if needed.
   In the Oven:
   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the bacon-wrapped hot dogs on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the hot dogs are hot. You can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes to crisp up the bacon even more.
6. Assemble the Hot Dogs:
   • Place the cooked bacon-wrapped hot dogs in the toasted buns. Top with extra jalapeños, green onions, or any additional toppings you like.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the hot dogs immediately with your favorite side dishes, such as fries, coleslaw, or potato salad.

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

Here’s a quick recap of the steps to make Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs:

1. Make the cream cheese mixture with cheddar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread the cheese mixture on the hot dogs and top with jalapeño slices.
3. Wrap the hot dogs with bacon and secure with toothpicks if needed.
4. Cook on the grill or in the oven until the bacon is crispy.
5. Assemble the hot dogs in buns and add any additional toppings.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Securing the Bacon: Make sure to wrap the bacon tightly around the hot dogs and secure it with toothpicks to prevent it from unraveling during cooking.
• Overcooking the Bacon: Keep an eye on the bacon as it cooks to avoid burning. If grilling, use indirect heat if the bacon starts to crisp too quickly.
• Skipping the Cheese Spread: The creamy cheese mixture is what makes these hot dogs taste like jalapeño poppers, so don’t skip it! Be sure to spread it generously over the hot dogs.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs are indulgent and delicious, and with a few simple presentation touches, you can elevate them even more!

How to Serve Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs:

• On a Platter: Serve the hot dogs on a large platter with extra jalapeños, cheese, and green onions on the side for guests to customize their own.
• With Side Dishes: Pair the hot dogs with classic BBQ sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or chips for a complete meal.
• For Game Day: These hot dogs are perfect for game day or parties! Serve them alongside a selection of sauces, like spicy mayo or ranch, for dipping.

Presentation Ideas for Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or chopped parsley adds color and freshness.
• Top with Crispy Fried Onions: For extra crunch, add crispy fried onions on top of the hot dogs.
• Serve with Dipping Sauces: Offer small bowls of ranch, spicy mayo, or queso dip on the side for even more indulgence.

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Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: You can assemble the hot dogs (wrap them in bacon and spread the cheese mixture) up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the fridge, then cook them just before serving.
• Leftovers: Store any leftover hot dogs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to re-crisp the bacon.
• Grill or Oven: If you prefer the charred flavor of the grill, cook the hot dogs on the grill. For an easier, hands-off method, bake them in the oven.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe without bacon?
Yes! If you prefer to skip the bacon, you can still make the hot dogs with the cream cheese and jalapeño topping. Simply cook the hot dogs as you normally would, then add the cheese and jalapeño mixture.

How spicy are these hot dogs?
The spiciness depends on how many jalapeños you use and whether you leave the seeds and membranes in the peppers. For a milder version, remove the seeds and membranes or use fewer jalapeños. You can also use pickled jalapeños for a tangy, less spicy option.

What can I serve with bacon jalapeño popper hot dogs?
These hot dogs pair well with classic BBQ sides like potato salad, coleslaw, fries, or grilled corn. You can also serve them with chips and dip for a casual meal or party spread.

Can I cook these hot dogs in the air fryer?
Yes! You can cook the bacon-wrapped hot dogs in the air fryer at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through, until the bacon is crispy.

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Conclusion:

These Bacon Jalapeño Popper Hot Dogs are the ultimate indulgence, combining the smoky, spicy, and cheesy flavors of jalapeño poppers with the fun, handheld appeal of a hot dog. Whether you’re making them for a summer BBQ, game day, or a special weeknight treat, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress. Wrap the hot dogs in bacon, top them with a creamy cheese mixture, and enjoy every bite of this bold, flavor-packed dish!

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