Ultimate BLT Ranch Hot Dog
The Ultimate BLT Ranch Hot Dog takes the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich and transforms them into a delicious hot dog experience. This recipe is perfect for cookouts, game day gatherings, or a simple lunch at home. While it originally called for Kraft's Cheese Dogs, you can certainly use your favorite brand or type of hot dog. The generous drizzle of ranch dressing adds a creamy tanginess that pairs perfectly with the crispy crumbled bacon and fresh vegetables. Feel free to get creative—every now and then, I like to add diced cucumber for an extra crunch! Each bite bursts with flavor, making these hot dogs a crowd-pleaser. Serve them up at your next barbecue and watch them disappear!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Hot dogs
6 (Grilled)
Hot dog buns
6 (Partially split and toasted lightly)
Iceberg lettuce
1/4 cup (Shredded)
Tomatoes
1/4 cup (Chopped (use vine-ripened for best flavor))
Red onion
1/4 cup (Chopped)
Buttermilk ranch dressing
1/2 cup (For drizzling)
Bacon
1/4 cup (Cooked, drained, and crumbled)
Instructions
1
Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the hot dogs, turning occasionally, until heated through and grill marks appear, about 5-7 minutes.
2
While the hot dogs are grilling, prepare the toppings. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded iceberg lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and red onion.
3
Once the hot dogs are cooked, remove them from the grill and lightly toast the hot dog buns on the grill for 1-2 minutes until golden.
4
Assemble each hot dog by placing a toasted bun on a plate.
5
Add a layer of the lettuce and vegetable mixture to the bottom of the bun.
6
Place a grilled hot dog on top of the vegetables.
7
Drizzle approximately 1 tablespoon of buttermilk ranch dressing over the hot dog.
8
Finish by sprinkling the crumbled bacon atop the hot dog for added crunch and flavor.
9
Serve immediately and enjoy your Ultimate BLT Ranch Hot Dogs!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ultimate BLT Ranch Hot Dog?
It is a gourmet hot dog recipe that incorporates the classic ingredients of a BLT sandwich—bacon, lettuce, and tomato—along with a creamy buttermilk ranch dressing.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to make 6 hot dogs.
What type of hot dogs should I use?
You can use any brand or type of hot dog you prefer, although the recipe was originally inspired by Kraft Cheese Dogs.
How long do I need to grill the hot dogs?
Grill the hot dogs over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally until grill marks appear.
What is the best way to prepare the buns?
Lightly toast the hot dog buns on the grill for 1 to 2 minutes until they are golden brown.
What vegetables are needed for the toppings?
You will need shredded iceberg lettuce, chopped vine-ripened tomatoes, and chopped red onion.
How do I assemble the Ultimate BLT Ranch Hot Dog?
Place a layer of the lettuce and vegetable mixture in the toasted bun, add the grilled hot dog, drizzle with ranch dressing, and top with crumbled bacon.
What kind of ranch dressing is recommended?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of buttermilk ranch dressing for drizzling.
How should the bacon be prepared?
The bacon should be cooked, drained of excess fat, and crumbled before being added to the hot dogs.
Can I add other ingredients for extra crunch?
Yes, adding diced cucumber is a recommended variation for those who want an extra crunchy texture.
What kind of tomatoes work best?
Vine-ripened tomatoes are suggested because they provide the best flavor for this recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for cookouts?
Absolutely, it is specifically described as perfect for summer BBQs, game day gatherings, and parties.
How much ranch dressing goes on each hot dog?
It is recommended to drizzle approximately 1 tablespoon of buttermilk ranch dressing over each hot dog.
What type of lettuce is best for this recipe?
Shredded iceberg lettuce is used to provide the classic BLT crunch.
Do I need to mix the vegetables together?
Yes, you should combine the shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and red onion in a mixing bowl before assembly.
Is this considered an easy recipe?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe that is quick to prepare for lunch or snacks.
How much bacon is required for 6 hot dogs?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon.
Can I use white onion instead of red onion?
While the recipe calls for red onion for its color and sharp flavor, you can substitute with your favorite onion type.
Should I serve these hot dogs hot or cold?
These should be served immediately while the hot dog and bun are still warm from the grill.
What grill temperature is best?
A medium heat setting on your grill is ideal for cooking the hot dogs and toasting the buns.
How much lettuce is needed total?
You will need 1/4 cup of shredded iceberg lettuce for the 6 servings.
How much red onion is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of chopped red onion.
How much tomato is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of chopped tomatoes.
Is this a good recipe for kids?
Yes, the familiar flavors of ranch, bacon, and hot dogs make it very kid-friendly.
Can I make these indoors?
Yes, if you do not have a grill, you can cook the hot dogs and toast the buns using a stovetop griddle or pan.
What makes the ranch dressing a good addition?
The ranch dressing adds a creamy tanginess that complements the salty bacon and fresh vegetables.
How do I ensure the buns don't burn?
Only toast them for 1 to 2 minutes and watch them closely until they are just golden.
What are the main flavor profiles?
The flavor profile is a mix of smoky bacon, savory grilled meat, fresh crisp vegetables, and tangy creaminess.
Can I use different types of buns?
Yes, while standard hot dog buns are used, you can use brioche or whole wheat buns if you prefer.
Are there any suggested sides for this?
While not mentioned in the recipe, it pairs well with typical BBQ sides like potato chips, corn on the cob, or coleslaw.