Print

Savory Crispy Grilled Hot Dogs with Bacon Jam and Onions

crispy grilled hot dogs - featured image
Print Recipe

Transform ordinary hot dogs into a flavor-packed masterpiece with crispy grilled hot dogs topped with rich bacon jam and sweet caramelized onions. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for casual gatherings and backyard BBQs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Hot dogs (quality all-beef or favorite brand, thicker dogs preferred)
  • Buns (soft yet sturdy, like brioche or potato rolls)
  • 8 oz thick-cut bacon, chopped
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee (optional but recommended)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar (optional)
  • Optional toppings: shredded sharp cheddar or smoked gouda, fresh chopped parsley or chives, spicy mustard or favorite condiment

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bacon Jam: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy and most fat is rendered, about 8–10 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving bacon fat in the pan.
  2. Sauté Onions and Garlic for Jam: Add diced onion to bacon fat and cook over medium-low heat for 10 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more. Stir in brown sugar and cook until it dissolves and mixture starts to caramelize, about 3 minutes.
  3. Add Liquids: Carefully pour in apple cider vinegar and coffee, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Simmer gently until thickened, about 15 minutes. Return bacon to pan, stir, and cook 5 more minutes. Season with black pepper and red pepper flakes. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. Caramelize Onions: While bacon jam simmers, melt butter in another large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions, salt, and sugar. Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for 30–40 minutes or until onions are deep golden brown. Stir in balsamic vinegar during last 5 minutes if using. Remove from heat.
  5. Grill Hot Dogs: Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill hot dogs, turning occasionally, until crispy and charred, about 6–8 minutes. Toast buns lightly on grill for 1–2 minutes if desired.
  6. Assemble Hot Dogs: Place each hot dog in toasted bun. Spoon generous amount of warm bacon jam over dog, then pile on caramelized onions. Add optional toppings like cheese or herbs if desired.
  7. Serve Immediately: Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

If bacon jam is too thick, loosen with a splash of coffee or vinegar before serving. Caramelize onions low and slow to avoid burning. Bacon jam can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Use quality hot dogs for best texture and flavor. Gluten-free buns can be used for gluten-free diets. For vegetarian versions, substitute bacon with smoked tempeh or mushroom bacon and use vegan butter and plant-based hot dogs.

Nutrition

Keywords: hot dogs, bacon jam, caramelized onions, grilled hot dogs, backyard BBQ, comfort food, savory, crispy hot dogs

Find it online: https://dahliadishes.com/savory-crispy-grilled-hot-dogs-with-bacon-jam-and-onions-recipe/