Ingredients

For the Cheeseburger Bacon Dogs (Serves 4):

  • 4 beef hot dogs
  • 8 slices of bacon (thin-cut works best)
  • 1/2 pound ground beef
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese (cut into thin strips or shredded)
  • 4 hot dog buns
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for grilling or pan-frying)

Optional Toppings:

  • Shredded lettuce
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Sliced pickles
  • Ketchup
  • Mustard
  • Mayonnaise
  • Finely diced onions

Equipment

  • Skillet or grill
  • Toothpicks (optional, for securing bacon)
  • Tongs
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spatula

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture:
    • In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
    • Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
    • Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and flatten each portion into a thin, rectangular patty (about the length and width of a hot dog).
  2. Assemble the Cheeseburger Bacon Dogs:
    • Place strips of cheddar cheese (or a small amount of shredded cheese) along the center of each flattened beef patty.
    • Place a hot dog in the center of the cheese.
    • Wrap the beef patty around the hot dog, pressing gently to seal the edges and encase the hot dog and cheese completely.
    • Wrap 2 slices of bacon around each beef-wrapped hot dog, spiraling from one end to the other. Secure the bacon ends with toothpicks if needed to keep them in place.
  3. Cook the Cheeseburger Bacon Dogs:
    • Grill Method: Preheat a grill to medium heat (about 350°F/175°C). Lightly oil the grill grates. Place the bacon-wrapped dogs on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the ground beef is cooked through (internal temperature of the beef should reach 160°F/71°C).
    • Skillet Method: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon-wrapped dogs and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning frequently, until the bacon is crispy and the beef is fully cooked.
    • Ensure the bacon is cooked evenly by rotating the dogs carefully with tongs.
  4. Toast the Buns:
    • While the dogs are cooking, lightly toast the hot dog buns on the grill or in the skillet for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Assemble and Serve:
    • Place each cooked Cheeseburger Bacon Dog in a toasted bun.
    • Add desired toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, and diced onions.
    • Remove toothpicks (if used) before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with classic sides like French fries, onion rings, or a side salad.
  • Pair with a cold drink like iced tea, soda, or a milkshake for a true diner experience.

Notes

  • Ensure the ground beef is wrapped tightly around the hot dog to prevent it from falling apart during cooking.
  • For extra cheesy goodness, you can sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top after placing the dog in the bun.
  • Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the bacon and beef layer, so check for doneness with a meat thermometer if needed.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving, without toppings):

  • Calories: 600-700 kcal
  • Protein: 30g
  • Fat: 45g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g