Description
Loaded Hot Dog with Bacon, Cheese, and Fries
Ingredients:
For the hot dog:
4 beef hot dogs
4 hot dog buns
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
2 tbsp green onions, chopped
1 tbsp mustard or ketchup (optional)
For the fries:
2 large russet potatoes, cut into fries
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 tsp paprika
(optional)
1/4 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
Prepare the fries:
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the potato fries in olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
Cook the hot dogs:
Grill or pan-fry the hot dogs according to your preference until they’re nicely browned and heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
Assemble the loaded hot dogs:
Place each hot dog in a bun. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over each hot dog. Sprinkle with crumbled bacon and top with chopped green onions.
Melt the cheese:
For a gooey, melty finish, you can place the hot dogs in the oven for 2-3 minutes at 350°F (175°C) or until the cheese is melted.
Serve:
Serve the loaded hot dogs alongside the crispy fries. Optionally drizzle with mustard or ketchup if desired.
Enjoy:
Indulge in this tasty, flavorful, and comforting loaded hot dog with crispy fries!
This combo of savory hot dogs with bacon, cheese, and fries makes for an ultimate indulgent meal!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it heats, cut your potatoes into uniform fries for even cooking. Toss them thoroughly with oil and seasonings.
2. Spread the fries on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer—crowding will steam them. Bake for 15 minutes, then flip and bake for another 10-15 minutes until crispy.
3. While fries bake, cook bacon in a skillet until crisp. Drain on paper towels, then crumble. Reserve a bit of bacon fat to pan-fry the hot dogs for extra flavor, cooking for 5-7 minutes until browned.
4. Place cooked hot dogs in buns on a baking sheet. Top with cheese and crumbled bacon. Broil on low for 1-2 minutes, watching closely, until cheese is perfectly melted.
5. Remove from oven, top with green onions, and serve immediately with the crispy fries from the oven.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this indulgent meal on a large platter for a casual dinner. Offer small bowls of additional toppings like jalapeños, diced onions, relish, or different sauces (chipotle mayo, BBQ) for a customizable experience. Pair with a cold coleslaw or a simple pickle spear to cut through the richness. For a fun twist, serve the fries in paper cones alongside the loaded dogs.
How-to Summary
Cut and season potatoes, then bake at 425°F until crispy. Cook bacon until crisp, then pan-fry hot dogs in the residual fat. Assemble hot dogs in buns, top with cheese and bacon, and broil briefly to melt cheese. Finish with green onions and serve with the baked fries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe with different meats? Absolutely. Try smoked sausages, bratwurst, or even plant-based hot dogs. Adjust cooking times as needed.
How can I make the fries extra crispy? Soak the cut potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before drying and seasoning. This removes excess starch. Also, ensure they are thoroughly dried and not overcrowded on the pan.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time? You can cook the bacon and chop the green onions ahead. For best results, cut potatoes and cook fries fresh. Pre-cooked hot dogs can be quickly reheated.
What’s the best cheese for melting? Cheddar is classic, but for superior meltability, use American cheese, Monterey Jack, or a cheddar-Jack blend.
How do I prevent the buns from getting soggy? Lightly toast the buns before assembling. Also, avoid adding wet condiments directly under the hot dog; apply them on top or on the bun’s sides.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet with fries, as this leads to steaming instead of crisping.
- Do not skip flipping the fries halfway through baking for even browning.
- When broiling to melt cheese, never leave the oven unattended—it can burn in seconds.
- Ensure your bacon is fully crisped before crumbling; soft bacon can become chewy.
- Don’t assemble the hot dogs too far in advance, or the buns will become soggy from the heat and toppings.
Conclusion
This loaded hot dog with bacon, cheese, and homemade fries is the epitome of a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can achieve perfectly crispy fries and a hot dog loaded with gooey, savory toppings. It’s a customizable dish perfect for game days, casual gatherings, or a fun family dinner. With the right preparation and these serving tips, you’re guaranteed a deliciously indulgent experience that hits all the right notes of flavor and texture.