Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Make sure everything is mixed well.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon, ensuring an even distribution throughout the meat mixture.
- Shape the mixture into 8 hot dog shapes around the wooden skewers. Tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, and baking powder for the batter.
- In another bowl, beat the egg and milk together until combined smooth.
- Dip each beef hot dog first into the milk mixture, then coat with the cornmeal mixture evenly.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F.
- Fry the corn dogs in batches for about 4-5 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and fully cooked.
- Drain the fried corn dogs on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve warm with your favorite condiments like ketchup, mustard, or even ranch!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serving your Deep-Fried Bacon Cheeseburger Corn Dogs is all about creativity! You can place them in a tall mason jar for a fun presentation or on a platter surrounded by dipping sauces. These corn dogs can be paired effectively with simple sides like a fresh garden salad or crispy fries. For a full meal, consider offering coleslaw or potato wedges alongside.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven to maintain their crispy texture—microwaving can make them soggy.
Freezing is also an option! Simply let the corn dogs cool completely, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and store for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw in the fridge before reheating for the best results!
Pro Chef Tips
- Temperature control: Maintain your oil temperature for perfect frying. Too hot, and they’ll burn; too cool, and they’ll soak up too much oil.
- Batch frying: Don’t overcrowd the fryer; frying in small batches ensures even cooking.
- Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add extra spices to the beef mixture or throw in some jalapeños for an extra kick!
Creative Twists
Looking to try something new? Here are some variations:
- Use different cheeses like pepper jack for a kick or blue cheese for a gourmet touch.
- Swap out the bacon for cooked sausage or add barbecue sauce to the meat mixture.
- For a twist on toppings, try serving with an onion ring or pickles!
FAQs
How long does it take to make these corn dogs?
The total prep and cooking time will be around 30-40 minutes, making it a quick treat for any occasion!
Can I use turkey or chicken in place of beef?
Absolutely! Lean ground meats like turkey or chicken work perfectly and still deliver delicious results.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they freeze well for up to 2 months—just reheat them in the oven for the best texture!
