Step-by-step instructions
Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to whip up these Loaded Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Dogs:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once done, crumble it into small pieces.
- Prepare the tater tots according to the package instructions until they’re golden and crispy.
- Grill the hot dogs until they’re heated all the way through.
- Place the hot dog buns on a baking sheet and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over them. Pop them in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Assemble the hot dogs in the toasted buns.
- Drizzle the ranch dressing generously over the hot dogs.
- Top with crumbled bacon, diced onions, and diced tomatoes.
- Finish it off by sprinkling crispy tater tots on top.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy every delicious bite!
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving these Loaded Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Dogs can be just as fun as making them! Consider arranging them on a large platter for a casual picnic-style meal. Pair them with classic sides like coleslaw or potato salad for a complete feast. A cold beverage, be it soda or a chilled beer, complements these savory dogs perfectly. You could even add some spicy jalapeños or freshly chopped cilantro for those who like a little kick!
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you find yourself with any leftovers, don’t worry; they can be stored safely. Allow them to cool down, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating, ensure that everything is heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some pro tips to ensure your Loaded Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Dogs are a hit:
- Don’t rush the bacon; cooking it slowly at medium heat ensures maximum crispiness.
- Feel free to vary the cheese—try pepper jack or even crumbled blue cheese for different flavor profiles.
- For a healthier option, you could swap out classic hot dogs for turkey or veggie dogs.
- Experiment with different ranch flavors like spicy or garlic-infused varieties to switch things up.
Creative twists
Though this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of variations to explore:
- Use sweet potato tater tots for a different flavor and added nutrition.
- For a barbecue flair, add some barbecue sauce along with the ranch dressing.
- Try different toppings like sautéed mushrooms, jalapeños, or a bit of guacamole for a Southwest twist.
Common questions
What’s the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is around 15 minutes, with cooking taking about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick meal!
Can I substitute any of the ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap hot dogs for sausage, or use vegan bacon for a plant-based version.
How can I store these if I have leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat thoroughly before serving again.
From cookouts to weeknight dinners, these Loaded Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Dogs with Cheddar Tater Tot Crunch are sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy the crunch, flavor, and fantastic combination of ingredients in every bite!
