This recipe takes me straight back to summer cookouts with my brother manning the grill and the kids running barefoot through the yard. The first time I tried wrapping hot dogs in bacon, I remember thinking — why have I never done this before? It's one of those easy wins that takes regular hot dogs from blah to oh wow. Crispy bacon, juicy dogs, a little char from the grill… it’s now a go-to for lazy summer dinners and backyard get-togethers. 

Ingredients:

• 4 beef hot dogs (or your favorite kind)

• 4 slices of bacon (thin-cut works best)

• 4 hot dog buns

• Optional toppings: ketchup, mustard, relish, grilled onions, pickles, shredded cheese, jalapeños

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat (about 400°F).

2. Wrap each hot dog tightly with a slice of bacon. Secure ends with toothpicks if needed.

3. Grill or bake:

   • Grill: Place bacon-wrapped dogs directly on the grill grates. Cook 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally until bacon is crispy and cooked through.

   • Oven: Bake on a wire rack over a baking sheet at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

4. Toast buns if desired for extra texture.

5. Assemble: Add hot dogs to buns, pile on your favorite toppings, and serve hot.

Tips:

• Thin-cut bacon crisps up better than thick-cut.

• For extra flavor, sprinkle the bacon with a little brown sugar or chili powder before cooking.

• Make it a meal with sweet potato fries or a corn and avocado salad on the side.

• Try turkey dogs or veggie dogs for a lighter version.

Nutrition (per serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 380

• Protein: 14g

• Carbs: 25g

• Fat: 24g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 3g