Cheddar Ranch Explosion Dog Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 4)

Hot Dogs: 4 all-beef hot dogs
Buns: 4 soft hot dog buns
Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
Ranch Dressing: 1/2 cup prepared ranch dressing
Bacon: 4 slices, cooked and crumbled
Jalapeños: 2 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced (or pickled jalapeños for milder heat)
Green Onions: 2, thinly sliced
Chili Powder: 1 tsp
Garlic Powder: 1/2 tsp
Butter: 2 tbsp, melted
Optional Toppings: Crushed corn chips or fried onions for extra crunch

Prep the Ranch Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix ranch dressing with chili powder and garlic powder. Set aside.
Cook the Hot Dogs:
- Preheat grill or skillet to medium-high heat (about 375°F/190°C).
- Grill hot dogs for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until evenly charred and heated through. Alternatively, cook in a skillet over medium heat for 4-6 minutes.
Toast the Buns:
- Brush the insides of the hot dog buns with melted butter.
- Place buns on the grill or in the skillet, cut-side down, for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
Assemble the Hot Dogs:
- Place each hot dog in a toasted bun.
- Drizzle 1-2 tbsp of the seasoned ranch sauce over each hot dog.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese over each hot dog.
- Add crumbled bacon, sliced jalapeños, and green onions on top.
- Optional: Sprinkle crushed corn chips or fried onions for extra texture.
Optional Melting Step:
- For melty cheese, place assembled hot dogs on a foil-lined tray and broil in the oven on high for 1-2 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Serve:
- Serve immediately with extra ranch sauce on the side for dipping, if desired.

Make Ahead: Prepare the ranch sauce and cook bacon up to 1 day in advance. Store in airtight containers in the fridge.
Spice Level: Adjust jalapeño quantity or use pickled jalapeños for less heat.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef hot dogs with plant-based hot dogs and omit bacon or use vegan bacon bits.

Enjoy your Cheddar Ranch Explosion Dog!