There’s something about a bacon-wrapped hot dog that screams comfort food, and when you add a rich, creamy cheese sauce, it takes indulgence to the next level.

I love making these for game nights, cookouts, or anytime I need a quick, satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.

The smoky bacon combined with the gooey cheese sauce makes every bite absolutely irresistible.

Bacon-Wrapped Hot Dogs with Creamy Cheese Sauce

Recipe by JoanneCourse: MainCuisine: American Comfort FoodDifficulty: Easy to Moderate
Servings

8

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

20

minutes
Calories

450

kcal

Ingredients

  • 8 hot dog buns

  • 8 all-beef hot dogs

  • 16 slices of bacon (2 per hot dog)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for pan-frying or grilling)

  • For the Cheese Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup whole milk

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Optional Toppings:
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

  • Sliced jalapeños

  • Diced onions

Directions

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Wrap each hot dog with 2 slices of bacon, overlapping slightly to ensure full coverage. Secure the ends with toothpicks if needed.
  • Place the bacon-wrapped hot dogs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a skillet with olive oil.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway, until the bacon is crispy and fully cooked. If using a skillet, cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning frequently to crisp all sides.
  • Remove from heat and set aside.
  • Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
  • In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Add flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute until a smooth paste forms.
  • Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps, and cook until slightly thickened (about 3 minutes).
  • Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
  • Remove from heat and keep warm.
  • Step 3: Assemble the Hot Dogs
  • Place each bacon-wrapped hot dog in a bun.
  • Generously drizzle with the creamy cheese sauce.
  • Add optional toppings like chopped parsley, jalapeños, or diced onions for extra flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For extra crispy bacon, broil the hot dogs for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.
  • You can substitute the cheddar cheese with pepper jack for a spicier kick.
  • Add toppings like crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions for a fun crunch.
  • This recipe works great on the grill for summer BBQs.

Storage and Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftover bacon-wrapped hot dogs and cheese sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
    .
  • Reheating Hot Dogs: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
    .
  • Reheating Cheese Sauce: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.