Transform your typical cookout with these grilled bacon-wrapped stuffed hot dogs. This recipe adds a delectable twist with cheddar cheese, sauerkraut, and smoky bacon. Perfect for any gathering, these hot dogs are sure to impress your guests with their unique flavors.
Photos of Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Hot Dogs Recipe
If you're venturing to the supermarket, keep an eye out for sauerkraut, which might not be a pantry staple for everyone. You can usually find it near the pickles and relishes. Also, make sure to get large hot dogs that can accommodate the stuffing comfortably.
Ingredients for Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Hot Dogs
ketchup: A classic condiment that adds a sweet and tangy flavor.
dijon mustard: Provides a sharp, tangy taste that complements the sweetness of ketchup.
hot dogs: The main protein, make sure they are large enough to be stuffed.
cheddar cheese: A rich and creamy cheese that melts beautifully inside the hot dog.
onions: Adds a bit of crunch and a slightly sweet, pungent flavor.
sauerkraut: Fermented cabbage that brings a tangy, slightly sour taste.
bacon: Used to wrap around the stuffed hot dogs, adding smokiness and crispiness.
vegetable oil: Brushed on the grill grates to prevent sticking.
hot dog buns: Soft buns to hold the grilled hot dogs and all their tasty fillings.
One reader, Lane Grayson says:
These grilled bacon-wrapped stuffed hot dogs are a game-changer! The combination of gooey cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and crispy bacon is simply irresistible. Perfect for a summer BBQ, they were a hit with everyone. Easy to make and absolutely delicious!
Techniques Required for Making Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Hot Dogs
Yes.
How to prepare grill for direct medium high heat: Preheat your grill to a medium-high setting, which is typically around 375-450°F (190-230°C). Ensure the grates are clean and free of any previous food residue.
How to mix ingredients: Combine the ketchup and mustard in a small bowl until well blended. In a separate bowl, mix the sauerkraut with the chopped onions until evenly distributed.
How to slice open hot dogs: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a slit down the center of each hot dog lengthwise, creating a deep pocket without cutting all the way through.
How to coat hot dogs with mixture: Use a spoon or a brush to apply the ketchup and mustard mixture inside the pocket of each hot dog.
How to place cheese and sauerkraut in hot dogs: Insert a strip of cheddar cheese into the pocket of each hot dog. Then, fill the remaining space with the sauerkraut and onion mixture, ensuring the cheese is fully encapsulated to prevent it from leaking out during cooking.
How to wrap hot dogs with bacon: Take a strip of bacon and wrap it tightly around each stuffed hot dog, securing the ends with toothpicks. Ensure the bacon is snug but not overly tight to allow for expansion during cooking.
How to brush grill grates with oil: Use a brush or a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil to lightly coat the grill grates. This helps prevent the hot dogs from sticking.
How to grill hot dogs: Place the stuffed hot dogs on the grill with the stuffing side down. Grill for 2 minutes on each side, turning a quarter turn each time, until the bacon is fully cooked. Cover the grill between turnings to maintain heat.
How to toast buns on the grill: During the last minute of cooking the hot dogs, open the hot dog buns and place them open-side down on the grill to lightly toast.
How to remove toothpicks from hot dogs: Carefully remove the toothpicks from the hot dogs once they are fully cooked and before serving.
How to serve hot dogs: Place the grilled hot dogs in the toasted buns and serve immediately. Enjoy!
How To Make Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Hot Dogs
These grilled stuffed hot dogs are the ultimate comfort food! Savory hot dogs are filled with cheese and sauerkraut then wrapped with bacon.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1tspketchup
- 1tspdijon mustard
- 4large hot dogs,knockwurst or kielbasa
- ½ozcheddar cheese,cut into long sticks
- 2tbsponions,chopped
- 1cupprepared sauerkraut,drained, roughly chopped
- 4slicesbacon
- vegetable oil
- 4long hot dog buns
Instructions
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Prepare grill for direct medium high heat.
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Mix together the ketchup and mustard in a small bowl. In a separate bowl, mix the sauerkraut with the chopped onion, set aside.
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Slice open the hot dogs, down the center, lengthwise, forming a deep pocket in each, but not cutting all the way through. Coat the inside of each hot dog with the mustard ketchup mixture.
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Place a strip of cheese deep within the pocket of each hot dog. Top with sauerkraut and onions. Encapsulate the cheese at the ends with the sauerkraut mixture as well, so that no cheese is exposed, otherwise, it will drip out when cooking.
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Wrap a strip of bacon around each stuffed hot dog, securing with toothpicks at each end. Make sure you wrap tight enough so that the stuffing stays in, but not so tight so that when the hot dog expands will cooking the bacon would tear.
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Brush the grates of your grill with vegetable oil so that the hot dogs don’t stick. Place the stuffed hot dogs on the grill, stuffing side down.
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Grill for 2 minutes, until the bacon on that side, is cooked, turn the hot dogs a quarter turn, and grill for a couple more minutes. Continue to grill for a few minutes each on all sides until the bacon is cooked. Cover the grill in between turnings.
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During the last minute of cooking, open up the hot dog buns and place them open-side down on the grill to lightly toast.
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Remove the hot dogs and buns from the grill. Remove the toothpicks from the hot dogs. Place the hot dogs in the buns and serve. Enjoy!
Recipe Notes
If you have a grill screen, you can use it, just coat it with vegetable oil first and pre-heat for a couple of minutes.
Nutrition
- Calories: 455.29kcal
- Fat: 32.30g
- Saturated Fat: 11.14g
- Trans Fat: 0.10g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 15.16g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.57g
- Carbohydrates: 24.85g
- Fiber: 2.05g
- Sugar: 4.10g
- Protein: 15.58g
- Cholesterol: 50.88mg
- Sodium: 1145.48mg
- Calcium: 116.99mg
- Potassium: 280.45mg
- Iron: 2.77mg
- Vitamin A: 23.38µg
- Vitamin C: 6.19mg
Technique Tip for Grilling Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Hot Dogs
When wrapping the bacon around the stuffed hot dogs, make sure to overlap the ends of the bacon slightly. This helps to secure the bacon and prevents it from unraveling during grilling. Additionally, using toothpicks at both ends will ensure the bacon stays in place and the stuffing remains intact.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Hot Dog Recipe
Prepare the filling: Mix the sauerkraut and onions ahead of time and store in the fridge.
Pre-slice hot dogs: Slice the hot dogs and insert the cheese the night before.
Wrap with bacon: Pre-wrap the hot dogs with bacon and secure with toothpicks, then refrigerate until ready to grill.
Oil the grill: Brush the grill grates with vegetable oil before heating to save time during cooking.
Toast buns early: Toast the hot dog buns on the grill while the hot dogs are cooking to streamline the process.
Substitute Ingredients For Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Hot Dogs Recipe
ketchup - Substitute with tomato paste: Tomato paste provides a similar tomato flavor but is less sweet, making it a good alternative.
dijon mustard - Substitute with yellow mustard: Yellow mustard has a milder flavor but can still provide the tanginess needed for the recipe.
hot dogs - Substitute with bratwurst: Bratwurst offers a similar texture and can be grilled, providing a different but delicious flavor profile.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella melts well and has a mild flavor that complements the other ingredients.
onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and slightly sweeter taste, making them a good alternative to onions.
sauerkraut - Substitute with coleslaw: Coleslaw provides a crunchy texture and tangy flavor, similar to sauerkraut but with a different twist.
bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option that still offers a smoky flavor and crispy texture.
vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil is a healthier alternative that can be used for grilling and adds a subtle flavor.
hot dog buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns offer more fiber and nutrients while still providing the necessary structure for the hot dogs.
Presentation Tips for Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Hot Dogs
Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the grilled bacon-wrapped stuffed hot dogs into bite-sized pieces, ensuring each piece showcases the cheddar cheese, sauerkraut, and bacon layers.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with finely chopped parsley and a drizzle of ketchup and dijon mustard in an artistic pattern around the hot dog pieces.
Add texture contrast: Place a small mound of crispy fried onions next to the hot dog slices to add a crunchy element to the dish.
Incorporate color: Add a side of vibrant pickled red cabbage or carrot ribbons to bring a pop of color and a tangy contrast to the richness of the hot dogs.
Use elegant plating: Arrange the hot dog slices in a fan shape on a sleek, white plate to highlight the intricate layers and make the dish visually appealing.
Highlight the bun: Lightly toast the hot dog buns and cut them into small, elegant triangles. Place them strategically around the hot dog slices to add a crunchy texture and a sophisticated touch.
Add a dipping sauce: Serve a small ramekin of spicy aioli or honey mustard on the side for an extra layer of flavor and a gourmet touch.
Use microgreens: Sprinkle a few microgreens over the top of the hot dog slices for a fresh, delicate garnish that adds both visual appeal and a hint of freshness.
Essential Tools for Grilling Stuffed Hot Dogs
Grill: Used to cook the bacon-wrapped stuffed hot dogs over direct medium-high heat, ensuring they get a nice char and the bacon crisps up.
Small bowl: Needed to mix the ketchup and mustard together.
Separate bowl: Used to mix the sauerkraut with the chopped onion.
Knife: Essential for slicing open the hot dogs lengthwise to create a pocket for the stuffing.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop the onions and slice the hot dogs.
Toothpicks: Used to secure the bacon around the stuffed hot dogs, ensuring the stuffing stays inside during grilling.
Brush: Needed to apply vegetable oil to the grill grates to prevent the hot dogs from sticking.
Tongs: Useful for turning the hot dogs on the grill to ensure even cooking on all sides.
Grill cover: Helps maintain consistent heat and cook the hot dogs evenly when closed between turnings.
Plate: Used to place the cooked hot dogs and buns once they are removed from the grill.
Spatula: Handy for placing the hot dog buns open-side down on the grill to lightly toast them.
How To Store and Freeze Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Hot Dogs
- Let the grilled bacon-wrapped stuffed hot dogs cool completely before storing or freezing.
- To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled hot dogs in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed hot dogs. Wrap each hot dog individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Then, place the wrapped hot dogs in a freezer-safe container or a resealable freezer bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Frozen bacon-wrapped stuffed hot dogs will maintain their best quality for up to 2-3 months. However, they will remain safe to eat beyond this time, as long as they are stored at a constant temperature of 0°F (-18°C) or below.
- To reheat frozen stuffed hot dogs, first thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, you can reheat them on the grill over medium heat until they are heated through and the bacon is crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
- Note: The texture of the bun may change after freezing and thawing, so it's best to store and freeze the stuffed hot dogs without the buns. You can toast fresh buns when you're ready to serve the reheated hot dogs.
How To Reheat Leftover Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Hot Dogs
The best way to reheat leftover grilled bacon-wrapped stuffed hot dogs is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the hot dogs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil, and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the bacon is crispy again. This method helps to preserve the texture and flavor of the hot dogs while ensuring even heating.
Another option is to reheat the stuffed hot dogs on a grill or griddle over medium heat. Brush the grates with a little vegetable oil to prevent sticking, and grill the hot dogs for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and the bacon is crispy. This method will give you a nice char and smoky flavor, similar to when they were first cooked.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat the bacon-wrapped hot dogs in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 30-45 seconds, or until heated through. However, keep in mind that the bacon may not be as crispy as it would be using the oven or grill method.
For a quick and easy stovetop method, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the leftover stuffed hot dogs. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through and the bacon is crispy. You can add a splash of water to the pan and cover it briefly to create steam, which will help heat the hot dogs more evenly.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to heat the grilled bacon-wrapped stuffed hot dogs until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature before serving.
Random Fact About Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Hot Dogs
A fun fact about this grilled bacon-wrapped stuffed hot dogs recipe is that the combination of sauerkraut and cheddar cheese adds a unique twist, blending tangy and creamy flavors. This fusion makes it a standout dish for barbecues and summer cookouts.
Is Making Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Hot Dogs Economical for Home Cooking?
This grilled bacon-wrapped stuffed hot dogs recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With basic ingredients like hot dogs, cheddar cheese, onions, sauerkraut, and bacon, the total cost remains low. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $12-$15 USD. Considering the flavor and satisfaction it brings, the overall verdict rating for this recipe is a solid 8 out of 10.
Is This Grilled Hot Dog Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This bacon-wrapped stuffed hot dog recipe is undeniably delicious but falls short in the health department. Here's why:
- High in saturated fat: Between the hot dogs, bacon, and cheese, this dish is loaded with saturated fat, which can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
- Processed meats: Hot dogs and bacon are processed meats, which have been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer and other health issues.
- Refined carbohydrates: The hot dog buns are likely made from refined flour, which can cause blood sugar spikes and provide little nutritional value.
- High in sodium: Hot dogs, bacon, cheese, and sauerkraut are all high in sodium, which can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems when consumed in excess.
While this recipe is a tasty indulgence, it's best enjoyed in moderation. Here are some suggestions to make it a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor:
- Opt for all-natural, uncured hot dogs and bacon to reduce the intake of preservatives and additives
- Choose whole-grain or sprouted hot dog buns for added fiber and nutrients
- Use reduced-fat cheddar cheese or a smaller amount of regular cheddar to cut down on saturated fat
- Pile on extra sauerkraut for a probiotic boost and additional vitamins and minerals
- Serve with a side salad or grilled vegetables to balance out the meal and add more nutrients
Editor's Thoughts on Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Hot Dogs
This recipe is a delightful twist on classic hot dogs, combining the smoky flavor of grilled bacon with the tangy bite of sauerkraut and onions. The cheddar cheese adds a creamy richness, while the ketchup and mustard mixture provides a balanced sweetness and tang. Wrapping the hot dogs in bacon ensures a crispy exterior, while the grilling process imparts a wonderful char. The toasted buns add a satisfying crunch. Overall, this dish is a flavorful and indulgent treat, perfect for a summer barbecue or a fun family meal.
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Why trust this Grilled Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Hot Dogs Recipe:
This recipe combines the savory flavors of bacon, cheddar cheese, and sauerkraut to create a mouthwatering dish. The grilled hot dogs are wrapped in bacon and stuffed with a delicious mix of cheese and onions, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. The step-by-step instructions are easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Trust this recipe for a unique twist on a classic favorite that will impress your family and friends.
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