Bacon Wrapped Chili Dogs

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Hot Dogs: You can use beef, pork, turkey, or even plant-based hot dogs. I prefer beef for its rich flavor, but there are tasty alternatives if you’re looking for something lighter.

Bacon: Thick-cut bacon gives a great balance of crispy and chewy. If you’re after a healthier option, turkey bacon works, but it may not crisp up as much.

Ground Beef: Feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version. For a vegetarian option, you can use plant-based ground meat or lentils for a delicious twist.

Chili Ingredients: If short on fresh onions and garlic, you can use onion and garlic powder. Canned chili beans can also be added for extra texture and flavor.

Why is Proper Bacon Wrapping So Important?

Wrapping your hot dogs in bacon gives them flavor and a crispy texture. Here’s how to do it right:

• Start at one end of the hot dog, overlapping the bacon slightly as you wrap.
• Make sure to cover the entire dog, but don’t overdo it to avoid sogginess.
• Securing the ends with toothpicks can help, but be careful when serving!

How Can I Make the Chili Just Right?

Making a delicious chili is all about building flavor. Here’s how:

• Cook the ground beef well to develop a deep flavor before adding other ingredients.
• Let the chili simmer so the spices meld together. A slow simmer is key!
• Taste and adjust seasoning as it cooks; you can add more chili powder or cayenne for heat.

Don’t forget that garnishing with parsley makes everything look nicer and adds a fresh flavor!

Have fun with this recipe, and feel free to tweak it to your taste!

How to Make Bacon Wrapped Chili Dogs!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chili Dogs:

• 8 hot dogs (beef or your choice)
• 8 hot dog buns
• 8 slices of bacon

For the Chili:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

For Topping (optional):

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 15 minutes prepping, wrapping, and baking the hot dogs, plus another 15 minutes to prepare the chili. Then it’s all ready to serve and enjoy!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your bacon will get crispy while the hot dogs cook.

2. Wrap the Hot Dogs:

Take each hot dog and wrap it tightly with a slice of bacon. Make sure it overlaps a little for full coverage. Place the wrapped hot dogs on a baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup!

3. Bake the Hot Dogs:

Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Remember to turn them halfway through so they cook evenly and the bacon crisps up beautifully.

4. Prepare the Chili:

While the hot dogs are baking, grab a medium skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, draining any excess fat afterward.

5. Add Vegetables and Seasoning:

Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion softens, about 3-4 minutes. Then stir in the tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne if you like some heat. Let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes until it thickens a bit.

6. Assemble the Chili Dogs:

If you’d like, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese inside the hot dog buns. Place the bacon-wrapped hot dogs inside the buns.

7. Add the Chili:

Spoon a generous amount of the chili over each bacon-wrapped hot dog. Be as generous as your heart desires!

8. Serve and Enjoy:

Finally, garnish the dogs with fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor. Serve your Bacon Wrapped Chili Dogs immediately. Enjoy every delicious bite!

This recipe is a sure crowd-pleaser, perfect for game days or cozy dinners at home. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

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Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon can be used for a lighter option, but keep in mind it may not crisp up as well as regular bacon. You can also try cooking it longer or at a slightly higher temperature for better results.

Can I Prepare the Chili in Advance?

Yes, you can make the chili ahead of time! Just cook it as directed and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

How Do I Store Leftover Chili Dogs?

Store any leftover chili dogs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to ensure the bacon stays crispy.

Can I Add Other Toppings?

Definitely! Feel free to customize your bacon-wrapped chili dogs with toppings like diced onions, jalapeños, sour cream, or sliced avocado for a delicious twist. Get creative!