Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

These bacon-wrapped hot dogs combine juicy, flavorful hot dogs with crispy, smoky bacon cooked to perfection in the oven. Start by wrapping each hot dog with a thin strip of bacon, securing it around the sausage. Bake at 400°F for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispness and a golden brown finish. Serve them in buns with classic condiments like mustard and ketchup or your favorite toppings. The result is a satisfying balance of savory bacon and tender hot dog, ideal for casual meals or cookouts.

The process is straightforward yet yields a deliciously smoky snack with a crisp exterior and juicy center. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days and reheat to retain crispness. This method highlights simple ingredients with maximum flavor and can be customized with various toppings or side additions.

Lili Clark smiling at the camera.
Created By Lili Clark
Updated on Mon, 22 Dec 2025 23:30:00 GMT
Two hot dogs with bacon wrapped around them. Save
Two hot dogs with bacon wrapped around them. | lilicooks.com

These bacon-wrapped hot dogs turn an ordinary summertime favorite into something extraordinary with smoky, crispy bacon hugging every bite. The combination has been my go-to for outdoor cookouts and casual weeknight dinners because it elevates simple hot dogs without much fuss.

I made these for the first time last summer, and since then they have become a requested dish every barbecue. The crispy bacon texture paired with the juicy hot dog is just unbeatable.

Ingredients

  • Hot dogs: Pick your favorite brand and size to match your buns, Nathan’s brand works great for its flavor profile and size consistency
  • Thinly sliced bacon: Important to use thin slices so it crisps fully without overcooking the hot dog inside
  • Hot dog buns: Fresh buns make the difference for a soft, comforting bite
  • Pickled jalapeños, relish, mustard, ketchup: optional toppings to add brightness and tang choose quality condiments for the best taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sear the Bacon Wrap:
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup. On a flat surface, place a hot dog on one end of a bacon slice. Wrap the bacon diagonally around the hot dog, covering it completely. Be sure to wrap snugly so the bacon sticks while cooking.
Position on Pan:
Place each wrapped hot dog seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. This helps the bacon stay wrapped during cooking and keeps the seam closed. Arrange them in a single layer to promote even crisping.
Bake to Perfection:
Bake the hot dogs in the center of the oven for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The bacon will render its fat and crisp up beautifully while the hot dog stays juicy. The key is not to rush this step—patience results in that perfect golden brown exterior.
Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the hot dogs from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve hot in fresh buns with your favorite toppings such as mustard, ketchup, relish, or pickled jalapeños. These are best eaten right away to enjoy the crispy bacon at its peak.
Two bacon-wrapped hot dogs on a plate. Save
Two bacon-wrapped hot dogs on a plate. | lilicooks.com

I love the smoky flavor that the bacon infuses into the hot dog as it cooks. It reminds me of those lively street fairs where the smell of grilled bacon and sizzling meats fills the air, creating an irresistible atmosphere.

Storage tips

These bacon-wrapped hot dogs are best eaten the same day for maximum crispiness. If you need to store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use the oven or air fryer to revive crispiness rather than the microwave, which can make bacon soggy.

Ingredient substitutions

If you want a lower fat option, turkey bacon can work but expect a different texture and less crispiness. For hot dogs, feel free to try all-beef, chicken, or even plant-based options to suit your taste or dietary needs.

Serving suggestions

Serve with simple condiments like mustard and ketchup or jazz it up with pickled jalapeños, relish, or even finely chopped onions for a Sonoran dog twist. Pair with classic sides such as coleslaw, potato salad, or corn on the cob.

Cultural and historical context

The bacon-wrapped hot dog originates from Sonora, Mexico, where street vendors first wrapped hot dogs in bacon as an indulgent treat. It was brought to the United States through Arizona and has since become a popular street food favorite across the country. This version keeps it simple but feel free to pile on toppings inspired by traditional Sonoran dogs.

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of bacon works best?

Thinly sliced bacon is ideal to cook through properly without overcooking the hot dog. Thick bacon may take longer and can result in uneven cooking.

→ Can I grill instead of bake these hot dogs?

While baking ensures even cooking and crispiness, you can grill them carefully over medium heat, turning frequently to avoid burning the bacon.

→ How do I keep the bacon from unraveling?

Wrap the bacon tightly and place the hot dogs seam side down on the baking sheet to help the bacon stay secure during cooking.

→ What toppings pair well with bacon-wrapped hot dogs?

Classic mustard and ketchup work well, but try pickled jalapeños, relish, or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for added flavor.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store in an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs

Smoky hot dogs wrapped in crisp bacon, baked until golden and juicy. Perfect for casual meals and cookouts.

Preparation Time
10 min
Cooking Time
30 min
Overall Time
40 min
Created By: Lili Clark

Category: Dinner

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 8 Serves (8 bacon-wrapped hot dogs)

Dietary Options: Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ Proteins

01 8 hot dogs

→ Meats

02 8 thin slices of bacon

→ Breads

03 8 hot dog buns

→ Condiments (optional)

04 Pickled jalapeños
05 Relish
06 Mustard
07 Ketchup

Steps

Step 01

Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 400°F. On a clean work surface, place one hot dog at the end of a bacon slice and wrap diagonally until the entire hot dog is covered. Repeat with remaining hot dogs and bacon.

Step 02

Arrange wrapped hot dogs seam-side down on a foil-lined baking sheet. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until bacon is golden brown and crisp.

Step 03

Allow to cool slightly. Serve each bacon-wrapped hot dog in a bun with desired toppings such as pickled jalapeños, relish, mustard, or ketchup.

Tips

  1. Consume immediately for optimal crispness; bacon will continue to cook slightly after removal from oven.

Required Tools

  • Oven
  • Foil-lined baking sheet
  • Oven rack

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains pork and wheat (gluten) from hot dog buns.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 318
  • Fats: ~
  • Carbohydrates: ~
  • Proteins: ~