I’ve always loved the thrill of taking classic comfort foods and giving them a little twist, and bacon-wrapped hot dogs are exactly that—simple, indulgent, and ridiculously satisfying. Every time I make them, the sizzle of the bacon meeting the hot dog makes my kitchen smell like heaven. Using the air fryer makes this recipe not only faster but also gives the bacon a perfectly crispy edge without all the extra mess of frying or grilling.
What I really enjoy about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can dress your hot dogs up with all kinds of toppings, from gooey cheese to tangy mustard or caramelized onions. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, game-day snacks, or even a fun party appetizer that disappears faster than you can say “more bacon, please!”
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Hot Dogs: These are the star of the show, so pick your favorite variety. Classic beef hot dogs work perfectly, but chicken, turkey, or even plant-based dogs are great alternatives if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option.
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon is ideal because it wraps around the hot dog beautifully and crisps up nicely in the air fryer. The smoky, salty flavor of the bacon complements the hot dog perfectly, taking a simple snack to the next level.
Toothpicks: These small helpers are essential for holding the bacon in place while it cooks. They prevent the bacon from unraveling and ensure an even, tight wrap around your hot dog.
Optional Toppings: While not required, toppings like shredded cheese, diced onions, ketchup, mustard, or pickles can elevate your bacon-wrapped hot dogs and make them extra indulgent. Get creative and mix flavors to suit your taste!
Ingredients List
- 4 hot dogs
- 4 slices of thick-cut bacon
- Toothpicks (optional, to secure bacon)
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, ketchup, mustard, diced onions, pickles
How to Make Air Fryer Bacon Wrapped Hot Dogs
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Before wrapping your hot dogs, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that your bacon starts cooking evenly the moment it hits the basket.
Step 2: Wrap the Hot Dogs with Bacon
Take a slice of bacon and carefully wrap it around each hot dog. Use a toothpick to secure the ends if necessary, making sure the bacon overlaps slightly so it stays in place during cooking.
Step 3: Place Hot Dogs in the Air Fryer
Arrange the bacon-wrapped hot dogs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving a little space between each one. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking and maximum crispiness.
Step 4: Cook Until Crispy
Air fry the hot dogs at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through. The bacon should be golden brown and crisp, while the hot dogs are heated through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the hot dogs carefully from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute or two. Add your favorite toppings and enjoy immediately while they’re hot and crispy.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Use thick-cut bacon for the best texture and flavor. Thin bacon can cook too fast and shrink excessively.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; give each hot dog space to cook evenly.
- Rotate halfway through cooking to ensure the bacon crisps evenly on all sides.
- Experiment with wrapping cheese slices along with the bacon for an extra gooey twist.
- If using plant-based hot dogs, keep an eye on cooking time—they may cook faster than traditional hot dogs.
FAQs
Can I use regular bacon instead of thick-cut bacon?
Yes, but thin bacon may crisp faster and shrink more. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Do I need to use toothpicks?
They help keep the bacon in place, but if your bacon wraps tightly, you might get away without them.
Can I make these in the oven instead of an air fryer?
Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway, until bacon is crispy.
Can I freeze these for later?
Yes! Wrap them individually in foil and freeze. Reheat in the air fryer for 5-7 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
What toppings go best with bacon-wrapped hot dogs?
Shredded cheese, ketchup, mustard, pickles, onions, or even a spicy relish all work beautifully.