Seattle-Style Hot Dogs with Cream Cheese, Bacon & Jalapeños are a bold, satisfying twist on the classic American hot dog. Inspired by the iconic Pacific Northwest street food, this version combines smoky bacon-wrapped franks, rich cream cheese, and a punch of flavor from caramelized onions and blistered jalapeños. Toasted buns and a sprinkle of garlic pepper finish off these indulgent creations that are ideal for game day, backyard barbecues, or whenever comfort food cravings hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with flavor: Each bite balances smoky, spicy, creamy, and savory elements.
- Street food made at home: A gourmet-style hot dog inspired by Seattle’s food scene.
- Cream cheese twist: Adds a tangy, rich layer that sets it apart from standard hot dogs.
- Versatile for gatherings: Ideal for BBQs, parties, and casual get-togethers.
- Customizable: Easy to swap toppings or proteins based on preferences.
- Texture-rich: Crispy bacon, soft onions, and blistered jalapeños elevate the experience.
- Quick to prepare: Only 35 minutes from start to finish with minimal prep.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Meat:
4 beef franks
⅔ lb bacon (about 8 strips)
Produce:
1 large white onion, thinly sliced
2 whole jalapeños, sliced into rounds
Dairy:
1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
Bread:
4 hot dog buns, preferably brioche or bakery-style
Seasonings:
Garlic pepper, to taste
Salt, to taste
directions
- Caramelize the onions: In a skillet over medium-low heat, add a splash of oil and the sliced onions. Season with salt and cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are golden and deeply caramelized. Set aside.
- Char the jalapeños: In the same skillet or a separate pan, sear sliced jalapeños over medium heat until blistered and slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Wrap the franks: Wrap each beef frank with 1–2 strips of bacon, overlapping slightly to cover the length.
- Cook the franks: Grill or pan-cook over medium heat, turning frequently, until bacon is fully crisped and the franks are heated through. This takes about 8–10 minutes.
- Toast the buns: While the franks cook, toast the buns on the grill or in a dry skillet until golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Assemble the hot dogs: Spread a generous layer of softened cream cheese inside each bun. Place a bacon-wrapped frank in the center, then top with caramelized onions and charred jalapeños. Finish with a sprinkle of garlic pepper to taste.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately with a side of fries, slaw, or chips.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 hot dogs
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: 595 kcal per hot dog
Variations
- Spicy upgrade: Add a drizzle of hot sauce or sriracha on top for more heat.
- Vegetarian version: Use plant-based franks and vegan bacon alternatives.
- Cheddar swap: Mix shredded cheddar into the cream cheese for an extra cheesy base.
- Onion upgrade: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar during caramelizing for extra depth.
- Pickled twist: Add pickled jalapeños or red onions for tangy contrast.
- Bun variation: Use pretzel buns or split-top rolls for a different texture and flavor.
storage/reheating
Storage: Store all components separately in airtight containers. Franks and toppings can be kept refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the bacon-wrapped franks in a skillet or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Toast buns fresh and reheat toppings gently in a pan.
Freezing: Not recommended for the assembled hot dog, but bacon-wrapped franks can be frozen before cooking. Thaw before grilling.
FAQs
What makes this a “Seattle-style” hot dog?
Seattle-style hot dogs are known for the unique addition of cream cheese, often served with grilled onions and jalapeños, typically from late-night food carts.
Can I use turkey bacon or other alternatives?
Yes, turkey bacon or plant-based bacon can be used, but adjust cooking time as they may crisp differently.
How spicy are these hot dogs?
They have a mild to moderate spice level, depending on the jalapeños used. Remove seeds for less heat.
What’s the best way to soften cream cheese for spreading?
Let cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes or microwave it in short bursts until spreadable.
Can I cook the bacon separately?
For best integration and flavor, it’s recommended to cook the bacon wrapped around the frank. Cooking separately is possible but changes the texture.
What’s the best bun to use?
Bakery-style or brioche buns hold up well to the creamy and juicy toppings without becoming soggy.
Can I grill everything outdoors?
Yes, you can grill the franks, buns, onions (in a grill-safe pan), and jalapeños over an outdoor grill.
How do I keep bacon from unraveling while cooking?
Wrap tightly and cook seam-side down first. You can also secure the ends with toothpicks if needed, removing them before serving.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, though you may want to omit or reduce jalapeños for children.
Can I make a large batch for a party?
Yes, double or triple the recipe and keep components warm in covered pans until ready to assemble.
Conclusion
Seattle-Style Hot Dogs with Cream Cheese, Bacon & Jalapeños are the ultimate indulgent street food made at home. From the savory, crispy bacon to the creamy layer of cream cheese and the kick of jalapeños, each element adds bold flavor and texture to elevate the humble hot dog. Whether you’re planning a game day feast, summer BBQ, or just a crave-worthy dinner, this recipe delivers comforting, craveable satisfaction in every bite.
Print
Seattle-Style Hot Dogs with Cream Cheese
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 hot dogs
Description
These Seattle-Style Hot Dogs are loaded with cream cheese, crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and blistered jalapeños for the ultimate gourmet street food experience. A bold and smoky twist on the classic hot dog—perfect for BBQs, game days, or comfort food cravings. #seattlehotdog #creamcheesehotdog #baconwrappedfrank
Ingredients
Meat:
-
4 beef franks
-
2/3 lb bacon (about 8 strips)
Produce:
-
1 large white onion, thinly sliced
-
2 whole jalapeños, sliced into rounds
Dairy:
-
1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
Bread:
-
4 hot dog buns (preferably brioche or bakery-style)
Seasonings:
-
Garlic pepper, to taste
-
Salt, to taste
Instructions
-
Caramelize Onions: In a skillet over medium-low heat, cook sliced onions with a little oil and salt for 15–20 minutes, stirring until golden and soft.
-
Char Jalapeños: In the same or another skillet, cook jalapeño rounds until blistered and charred, about 5 minutes. Set aside.
-
Wrap & Cook Franks: Wrap each frank in 1–2 strips of bacon. Grill or pan-cook over medium heat, turning frequently until bacon is crisp and franks are hot.
-
Toast Buns: Toast buns on a grill or skillet until lightly golden.
-
Assemble Dogs: Spread cream cheese inside each bun. Add the bacon-wrapped frank. Top with caramelized onions and jalapeños. Sprinkle with garlic pepper to finish.
-
Serve: Enjoy hot, optionally with fries, chips, or coleslaw on the side.
Notes
For extra heat, add hot sauce or spicy mustard. For a vegetarian version, try plant-based sausages and dairy-free cream cheese. These hot dogs are great for tailgates and backyard BBQs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main, Street Food
- Method: Grilling, Skillet
- Cuisine: American, Fusion
