Bacon Cheese Dog Recipe

Cook and crumble bacon

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top if available. Lay bacon slices in a single layer on the rack. If making candied bacon, sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the slices. Bake 15–18 minutes until crisp to your liking. Remove and transfer bacon to a paper towel–lined plate to cool. When cooled, chop into small bits. Reserve 3–4 tablespoons of bacon fat for toasting buns or skip and discard.

Make roux

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once foaming, add the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden (this cooks the raw flour taste).

Add liquids

Slowly whisk in the beer until smooth, then whisk in the milk. Increase heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking frequently, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 4–6 minutes.

Finish cheese sauce

Reduce heat to low. Whisk in the cream cheese until melted and smooth. Gradually add the shredded sharp cheddar in small handfuls, whisking after each addition so the cheese melts evenly. Stir in Dijon, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and hot sauce (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning. Keep the sauce warm on the lowest heat, stirring occasionally; if it becomes too thick, thin with up to 2 tablespoons milk or a splash of beer.

Cook hot dogs

Choose your preferred method: grill over medium heat for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally until nicely charred; or simmer in hot water 4–6 minutes; or broil in the oven 4–6 minutes. If you reserved bacon fat, brush buns or hot dogs lightly with 1–2 teaspoons of warmed bacon fat before toasting/grilling for extra flavor.

Toast buns

Split buns and place cut side down on the grill or in a skillet until lightly toasted, about 30–60 seconds.

Place a hot dog into each toasted bun. Spoon 3–4 tablespoons of warm beer cheese over each hot dog (adjust to taste). Sprinkle a generous tablespoon of chopped bacon bits over the cheese. Garnish with chopped chives or scallions and pickled jalapeños if desired. Serve immediately.